10 Ways to Save on Fuel in Trucking and Hauling

Fuel prices in 2025 remain a critical concern for the trucking and hauling industry. With diesel averaging over $3.50 per gallon, controlling fuel expenses is no longer optional; it’s essential for staying competitive. 

At F&S Trucking and Hauling, we specialize in delivering high-quality, reliable hauling services for construction companies and large-scale partners. One of the ways we keep our services affordable and dependable is by prioritizing fuel efficiency in every part of our operation.

Here are ten proven strategies that help us, and can help any trucking business, save on gas and improve fleet performance.

1. Use Fuel Cards for Immediate Savings

Fuel cards are one of the fastest ways to cut costs at the pump. Depending on the network, trucking companies can save anywhere from $0.10 to $0.50 per gallon.

Top options used in the industry include:

• OTR Fuel Card
• Fleet One EDGE
• EFS

We at F&S Trucking and Hauling use fuel cards tailored to our routes to ensure we always pay the lowest diesel prices available.

2. Optimize Routes with Technology

Every extra mile wastes fuel. Using GPS-based route planning tools ensures the most fuel-efficient routes are selected, reducing traffic delays and unnecessary idling.

We utilize systems that prioritize:

• The shortest, safest paths
• Real-time traffic data
• Load-specific requirements

This strategy directly reduces our fuel costs while improving delivery timelines.

3. Monitor and Maintain Tire Pressure

Proper tire inflation is a simple but powerful fuel-saving technique. Even a slight drop in pressure can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 2%.

Our drivers perform regular tire checks, and we schedule ongoing maintenance to ensure our fleet is always optimized for fuel savings.

4. Reduce Idle Time

Idling burns approximately one gallon of diesel per hour. For companies running multiple trucks, this adds up quickly.

To combat this:

• We train our drivers to shut off engines when stopped
• Use auxiliary power units (APUs) when necessary
• Monitor idle times with onboard tracking

5. Encourage Fuel-Efficient Driving Habits

Driver behavior significantly impacts fuel consumption. At F&S Trucking and Hauling, we promote:

• Smooth acceleration and braking
• Consistent speeds
• Strategic use of cruise control
• Avoiding rapid starts and hard stops

These techniques help us maintain high MPG ratings across our fleet.

6. Stick to a Routine Maintenance Schedule

Clean engines run more efficiently. Routine vehicle maintenance helps reduce fuel waste caused by mechanical inefficiencies.

Our standard checks include:

• Air filters
• Oil changes
• Fuel injectors
• Tire alignment

By staying proactive, we prevent small issues from turning into costly fuel losses.

7. Invest in Aerodynamic Equipment

We equip our vehicles with trailer skirts, cab roof fairings, and other aerodynamic add-ons that can improve fuel economy by up to 10%. These upgrades reduce drag, allowing our trucks to perform more efficiently on long hauls.

8. Use High-Quality Fuel and Fuel Additives

Premium diesel and approved fuel additives help keep engines cleaner and more efficient. When conditions call for it, we invest in products that improve combustion, especially for long-distance or heavy-load hauling.

9. Track Performance with Telematics

Using GPS and fleet telematics, we monitor each truck’s fuel usage in real time. This data helps us:

• Detect underperforming routes or vehicles
• Identify potential mechanical issues
• Reward fuel-efficient drivers

It’s all part of our commitment to smart, data-driven trucking.

10. Lighten the Load When Possible

Every extra 100 pounds decreases fuel economy by up to 1%. While we specialize in heavy-duty hauling, we still evaluate how to streamline equipment and reduce unnecessary weight where possible to improve fuel efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency is Our Business Advantage

At F&S Trucking and Hauling, we don’t just move material—we move it smarter. By implementing these fuel-saving practices, we:

• Lower operational costs
• Offer more competitive pricing
• Reduce our environmental impact
• Improve service consistency

This commitment to efficiency sets us apart from competitors and supports long-term partnerships with construction firms, contractors, and logistics providers.

Looking for a Reliable, Fuel-Efficient Hauling Partner?

If you're searching for a trucking company that values performance, professionalism, and cost-conscious service, F&S Trucking and Hauling is here to deliver. We work with large-scale construction clients and commercial partners who rely on us to get the job done right on time and on budget.