Our fuel cards offer more than just a convenient way to purchase fuel. They offer a way to streamline accounting, help tighten purchasing controls and ensure a greater financial security. But not all fuel cards are created alike. In fact, many fleet managers are not aware of the differences and key benefits of the different programs – vehicle cards vs. single cards. So here is a quick breakdown.
Single cards are individual driver cards that always remain in the driver’s possession. Each card has a unique pin ID that is linked to the individual driver and that should be used when a driver uses the same vehicle most of the time.
Vehicle cards are assigned to a specific vehicle. The drivers are given an individual pin number that identifies the driver who is fueling. These work well when drivers are often switching vehicles. You are still able to track vehicle and driver behavior including how much fuel is purchased, when and where, miles driven, miles per gallon or cost per gallon. On your invoice, it shows the breakdown by both vehicle and by driver.
Our fuel card program allows fleet managers to monitor individual driver and vehicle behaviors. For example, whether employees are allocating company funds efficiently or whether inappropriate spending has occurred.
Both cards require the driver to input a unique ID number before a purchase can be approved. This forced input acts as security, ensuring the company cards are being used by the right people and at the right times. Further security measures can be established through authorization controls such as purchase types, number of transactions and gallon limits.
Remember, when selecting a fuel card, it is important to select the right program for your fleet. Contact our Cardlock Fuel Consultant today (aryana@gregspetro.com)!