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5 of the Best Fuel Cards for a Business to Use

Manage Your Transactions Easily with a Fuel Card

Fuel expenses represent a significant operational cost for businesses that have vehicles. Fuel cards offer specialized solutions that go beyond conventional credit cards, providing detailed reporting, potential discounts and improved control over fleet expenses. Let's take a look at the best fuel cards for a business that are currently available, and highlight their features, costs, advantages and limitations.

1. Shell Fleet Solutions

Shell stands as one of the most recognized names in fuel cards, offering businesses access to one of the largest fuel networks in the country. Their fuel card program provides access to over 14,000 Shell stations nationwide plus acceptance at thousands of additional locations. Their system includes online account management with real-time transaction monitoring and customizable driver PINs and vehicle ID requirements for enhanced security. The platform delivers detailed reporting with transaction breakdowns by driver and vehicle, along with the ability to set purchase controls and spending limits. A convenient mobile app helps drivers locate stations and managers track purchases on the go.

The cost structure for Shell fuel cards includes no application fees, with monthly card fees ranging from $2-$4 per card depending on the program selected. Volume discounts are available starting at 2 cents per gallon, and larger fleets may qualify for customized pricing arrangements that further enhance savings.

2. WEX Fleet Cards

WEX has established itself as a major player in the fuel card industry with versatile options for businesses of all sizes. Their cards are accepted at over 95% of U.S. fuel locations, covering more than 45,000 service stations nationwide. Their system features comprehensive expense tracking and detailed reporting capabilities that simplify accounting processes. Administrators can implement purchase controls to restrict non-fuel purchases and take advantage of GPS integration capabilities for location tracking. The cards capture Level III data for detailed purchase information, and the company provides 24/7 customer support for any issues that arise.

The cost structure for WEX includes no setup fees, with monthly fees typically ranging from $2-$5 per card. Users can access potential rebates of 1-4 cents per gallon depending on volume, and custom pricing is available for large fleets with substantial fuel requirements.

3. Fuelman

Fuelman offers network-based fuel cards designed to help businesses control costs with discount-focused programs. Their system provides acceptance at over 50,000 locations nationwide with particularly deep discounts at in-network locations. Fuelman cards feature advanced purchase controls including time-of-day restrictions that prevent off-hours usage. The platform generates exception reporting for unusual transactions to flag potential problems quickly and includes comprehensive online account management. Their system also specializes in tax exemption reporting for applicable businesses.

Fuelman's cost structure may include setup fees ranging from $40-$100 depending on the program selected. Monthly card fees range from $2-$8 per card, but these costs can be offset by savings of up to 8 cents per gallon at in-network locations. Program fees vary based on fleet size and specific services selected by each business.

The potential for significant savings through their discount network makes Fuelman attractive for cost-conscious businesses. Their robust purchase restriction capabilities help prevent unauthorized spending, and detailed fuel economy tracking helps identify efficiency opportunities. The strong unauthorized purchase prevention features provide peace of mind for fleet managers. Fuelman represents a particularly good option for local businesses with predictable routes that can regularly access in-network locations.

4. ExxonMobil Business Fleet Card

ExxonMobil offers business-specific fuel cards with flexible options for different fleet sizes. Their program provides access to over 11,500 Exxon and Mobil stations through an online account management system with custom reports. Administrators can set purchase limits and restrictions and implement driver ID requirements for enhanced security. The system includes tracking capabilities for maintenance expenses beyond fuel purchases. ExxonMobil's Synergy™ fuel offers benefits for enhanced engine performance, potentially reducing maintenance costs over time.

The cost structure includes no annual fees, with card fees varying by program from $0-$3 per card monthly. Rebates range from 1-6 cents per gallon based on volume, and volume pricing arrangements are available for larger accounts with substantial fuel needs.

ExxonMobil cards provide quality fuel with performance additives that can benefit engine longevity. Their consistent pricing across locations makes budgeting more predictable, and they impose no minimum purchase requirements for basic programs. Users benefit from combined credit card and loyalty program benefits for maximum value. The system provides streamlined tax reporting to simplify administrative processes.

5. BP Business Solutions

BP offers tailored fuel card programs with strong reporting features and broad acceptance within their network. They provide access to 7,200+ BP and Amoco stations nationwide through a comprehensive online account management portal. Their system features customizable spending controls that allow businesses to restrict purchases by category, time or amount. The detailed transaction reporting capabilities help identify spending patterns and opportunities for improvement. Security features include driver ID number requirements to prevent unauthorized use, and the system provides automatic accounting categorization to streamline bookkeeping.

The cost structure for BP includes no setup fees, with monthly card fees of $2-$4 depending on the program selected. Rebates up to 6 cents per gallon are available based on volume, though annual fees may apply to certain premium programs with enhanced features.

Keep reading to learn more about natural gas vehicles.

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