If this sounds too good to be true, it’s not. On top of all the advantages they provide, fleet cards are also convenient and easy to use. But, here’s the thing -- to reap the benefits, there are a couple of things to be aware of.
First, do not dive head-first into a fuel card program. Getting the greatest ROI means working with a provider to discuss the best options for your fleet, preparing your workforce for your program launch, addressing questions and concerns after launch and tweaking your program, if necessary.
The second thing ties somewhat into the first, and that’s preventing common problems associated with fuel cards. The good news is two of the most common problems— fraud and cards getting declined —can be prevented or quickly fixed by following some basic tips.
Let’s take a closer look at each of those.
Fuel Card Fraud
Preventing fuel card fraud from happening in the first place is an ideal strategy. The key is to develop a fraud prevention strategy that educates drivers on the risks and vulnerabilities associated with fraud and defines misuse, slippage and outright fraud. Some examples:
When setting up a card program with a provider, there are controls that can be established to help prevent misuse, slippage and fraud. However, be aware that these are not 100% fail proof. While controls can restrict purchase type, number of transactions, dollar limits, purchase frequency and time, it’s also necessary to follow some basic fraud prevention tips to ensure you are doing all you can to prevent fraud from occurring. This includes:
Cards Declined
Getting a call from a driver that their fuel card was declined does not make for a very good day. Time is wasted figuring out the reason the card was declined, and then the card must be reset before the driver can get back on the job — a huge productivity drain and a not-so-happy waiting game for customers. But, it doesn’t have to be this way. If cards are declined, the fix can be simple and quick.
The most common reasons cards are declined are:
And, here’s the quick fix:
As with many business initiatives, problems can pop up; fuel cards are no different. But, with careful planning, workforce education and a watchful eye on fuel expense statements for anomalies, should problems occur, they can be quickly nipped in the bud. The benefits of fuel cards far outweigh the negative. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to get with a program.
Interested in learning more about best practices when it comes to fuel? Check out our fuel efficiency white paper.