Is It Worth Getting a Fuel Card in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you run a business that relies on vehicles, whether it’s one van, truck or car, or a fleet of fifty, you’ve probably heard of fuel cards. Maybe you’ve even been offered one. But is it actually worth it?

Let’s cut through the noise and get to the point: yes, fuel cards can save you money, but that’s not the only reason they’re worth considering. In 2025, with fuel prices still volatile and admin costs creeping up, the right fuel card can do a lot more than just knock a few pence off the pump price.

Here’s how.

It’s Not Just About the Fuel Discount (But That Helps)

Most fuel cards offer savings, some fixed weekly prices, others discounts off pump rates. For example, with cards like the Edenred Black Fuel Card, you can save up to 12p* per litre at selected sites. That adds up fast, especially if you’re filling up multiple vehicles every week and are covering hundreds, or even thousands of miles.

But the real value? It’s in the predictability. Knowing what you’ll pay ahead of time helps you budget better and avoid nasty surprises when prices change suddenly.

Admin? Sorted.

If you’re still chasing receipts, manually logging mileage, or sorting through fuel expenses at the end of the month, you’re wasting time. A fuel card gives you one consolidated invoice, often with VAT breakdowns and driver-level reporting.

That means:

• Peace of mind that all expenditure is just on fuel.
• No more lost receipts.
• Easier tax returns.
• Cleaner books.

And if you’re managing a team, you’ll know exactly who’s spending what, where, and when.

Network Coverage Matters More Than You Think

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is choosing a card that doesn’t match their routes. If your drivers are constantly detouring to find an approved station, you’re losing time and money. What’s worse is they could be filling up at non-compatible stations and incurring greater costs.

Look for cards with broad network access, like those that cover BP, Shell, supermarket stations, and even EV charging points. The more flexible the network, the more efficient your operations.

Control and Security

Fuel cards let you set spending limits, restrict purchases to fuel only, and monitor usage in real time. That’s a big deal if you’re worried about misuse or want to keep tighter control over costs.

Fuel cards offer driver PINs and geo-tracking, giving you full visibility and peace of mind.

Thinking Ahead: EV and Mixed Fleets

If your business is starting to explore electric vehicles, or already running a mixed fuel fleet, some fuel cards now support EV charging alongside petrol and diesel. That’s a game-changer.

Instead of juggling multiple cards or apps, you can manage all your energy spend in one place. And with the right provider, you’ll get access to thousands of charging points across the UK.

Additional Benefits of Fuel Cards

Beyond the obvious savings and administrative ease, fuel cards offer several other benefits that can significantly impact your business operations.

Improved Cash Flow Management

Fuel cards often come with flexible payment terms, allowing you to manage your cash flow more effectively. Instead of paying for fuel upfront, you can defer payment to a later date, which can be particularly beneficial for small businesses.

Enhanced Reporting and Analytics

Many fuel card providers offer detailed reporting and analytics tools. These can help you track fuel consumption patterns, identify inefficiencies, and make data-driven decisions to optimise your fleet's performance.

Choosing the Right Fuel Card

Not all fuel cards are created equal, and choosing the right one for your business can make a significant difference. Here are some factors to consider:

Coverage and Network

Ensure the fuel card you choose has a wide network of accepted stations that align with your fleet's routes. The more extensive the network, the more convenient it will be for your drivers.

Fees and Charges

Be aware of any fees associated with the fuel card, such as transaction fees, monthly fees, or late payment charges. Compare these costs against the potential savings to determine the card's overall value.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is crucial. Choose a provider known for excellent customer service, so you can quickly resolve any issues that arise.

Additional Features

Look for cards that offer additional features such as loyalty programs, detailed reporting, and security measures like driver PINs and geo-tracking.

So, Is It Worth It?

If fuel is a regular business expense, and let’s face it, for most it is, then yes, a fuel card is absolutely worth it. But don’t just grab the first one you’re offered.

Ask yourself:

• Does it match where we drive?
• How much could we save?
• Will it reduce admin?
• Can it grow with us as we shift to EV?

The best fuel cards do more than save money. They save time, reduce hassle, and give you better control over one of your biggest operational costs.

Want to see how much you could save? Get a tailored quote or speak to our team about the right card for your business.

*Pricing and discount information correct at time of publishing and will be subject to change over time.