Introduction of fuel cards
Use of fuel cards within a fleet can help to drive down fuel costs by aligning your fleet to a specific petrol company which offers reduced rates in fuel. Usage of such cards can completely strip out the need for drivers to retain receipts in addition to continued chasing for proof of expenses internally. A fuel card will ensure that as a business you only pay for the fuel consumed as opposed to a pay and reclaim system which is calculated on inflated HMRC rates. Such sophisticated systems will also allow you access to detailed data on fuel usage and mileage per driver which can help in targeting those drivers who need help to reduce their fuel consumption or are perhaps filling up more than is necessary. In the world of forecasting and benefiting from cash flow management, fuel cards can help to free up cash and make your fuel expenditure more predictable.
Adopting fuel management systems
Fuel management systems are available to help significantly improve your fleet performance. Such systems can mean you are armed with the data you need to realise improved mileage and ensure that regular maintenance is scheduled to reduce unnecessary wear and tear on your fleet vehicles. Looking after your fleet vehicles can prevent fuel wastages, including techniques such as keeping tyres at the correct pressure to reduce fuel consumption, keeping engines properly tuned and removing unnecessary drag from additional unnecessary weight carried.
Fuel losses can of course translate into a huge expense for fleets and a fuel management system can ensure that you can track your fuel expenses. You will have a clear understanding of fuel expenditure and this will mean you are better armed to make informed decisions and suffer fewer surprises with reliable data to forecast and plan for the future. Such systems can be used to grant drivers authorisation to access fuel and track how much fuel is dispensed into each vehicle as well as eliminating the possibility of diesel being pumped into a petrol vehicle and vice versa. In addition to significant expense related to wasted fuel, misfuelling can also mean expensive repair bills and unwanted vehicle downtime so eliminating this possibility altogether is a much welcomed benefit.
Mark is a commercial insurance specialist. Starting work in the insurance profession in 1985 he has over 30 years’ experience in all areas of commercial insurance. As National Sales Manager for Bluedrop Services. Mark currently specialises in Motor Fleet Insurance and offers advice and support to customers in this area.
