Fuel Cards – What They Are and Why You Need One
If you’ve ever paid at a petrol station with cash or a credit card, you know the process can be slow and sometimes pricey. A fuel card swaps that hassle for speed, control, and often lower prices. It’s basically a payment card designed just for buying fuel, and many come with extra tools to track spending, set limits, and earn discounts.
For everyday drivers, a fuel card can mean quicker check‑outs and a tidy record of every litre you buy. For businesses that run a fleet of vehicles, the savings stack up fast – think about tracking mileage, limiting unauthorized purchases, and negotiating bulk discounts with fuel providers.
How Fuel Cards Work
A fuel card is issued by a bank or a specialised fuel‑service company. You load it with credit, and then you can swipe it at participating stations just like any other payment card. The key difference is the back‑end software that records each transaction in real time.
Most providers offer an online portal where you can see every fill‑up, filter by driver or vehicle, and compare costs across different fuel brands. Some cards even let you lock the card to specific stations, so drivers can’t wander off to more expensive outlets.
The discounts come from two sources: a direct price reduction per litre negotiated by the card issuer, and the ability to claim back tax‑exempt fuel expenses if your business qualifies. In many African markets, those few cents per litre add up quickly when you’re pumping thousands of litres each month.
Choosing the Right Fuel Card
Start by listing what matters most for you or your company – is it the lowest price per litre, the breadth of station networks, or robust reporting tools? If you run a small fleet, look for cards with low annual fees and simple dashboards. For larger fleets, prioritize cards that integrate with existing fleet‑management software.
Check the acceptance network: some cards only work at major brands, while others cover independent stations too. Wider coverage means less chance of running out of options on long routes.
Read the fine print on fees – there may be transaction charges, monthly service fees, or penalties for going over a set limit. A card that advertises zero fees but adds a high per‑transaction cost can end up being more expensive than a modestly priced card with unlimited use.
Finally, test customer support. When a driver hits a snag at the pump, you want quick help, not endless hold music. Many providers offer 24/7 phone lines or live chat – give them a call before signing up to gauge responsiveness.
In short, fuel cards turn routine refuelling into a streamlined, cost‑effective process. By picking a card that matches your spending habits and monitoring usage through the portal, you’ll see clearer budgets and real savings on every trip.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Fuel Cards Blocked in March 2023, Reveals Kanze Dena
In March 2023, former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s fuel cards were blocked, as disclosed by spokesperson Kanze Dena. Despite receiving old vehicles and a fuel card, the government has not renewed the contracts for two of his staff members. Kanze Dena sheds light on this significant development concerning Kenyatta’s post-presidency provisions.
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