Diesel Fuel Money Saving Tips

Record High Fuel Prices

According to Overdrive Magazine, diesel prices have jumped over a quarter per gallon from a week ago. Some locations around the country, such as California, are selling diesel at $6.00 per gallon according to ProMiles. With the soaring prices of diesel, and the Russia-Ukraine invasion going on with no end in sight, truckers want to know how they can save money at the diesel pumps. Here are a few tips to help truck drivers save money during this difficult time.

Check Your Speed

You want to save money on gas? Watch how fast you are travelling on the highway. For the best fuel economy, try to cruise around 55-60 mph. Driving faster than 60 mph will quickly burn up your fuel supply and lead to a possible speeding ticket – if booking it illegally. While other moving vehicles may cruise pass you, you will be pleased to discover that your fuel tank will go longer miles than expected.

Accelerate Gently

When you slam the pedal to the metal, you are burning up precious fuel that won't get you to your destination any quicker. To be fuel-efficient, take a few extra seconds to accelerate the vehicle as gently. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

Shifting Gears

Did you know that shifting gears can negatively affect fuel economy? It's simple: changing gears uses fuel, so instead of manually shifting from 1-4 then back to 2 in a jiff, use a combination of braking and shifting to preserve fuel. Note that higher gears save fuel, so try to find that sweet spot.

Use Momentum on Inclines

The general rule is to never accelerate while on a hill or mountain. Instead, build the momentum before approaching steep areas. Then, when it's time to climb down, ease off the pedal and coast down.

Tire Inflation

The weather can change tire pressure (PSI) and affect fuel efficiency. Truckers may have noticed that the colder weather months lead to tire pressure loss and lower fuel mileage. Before long-haul trips, it is always recommended that truckers inflate their tires to the PSI appropriate for their application.

Avoid Idling – If Possible

Reaching a stand-still on a highway is never desired – especially when you are a trucker with deadlines. While avoiding idling cannot always be achieved, it is best to pull over if you have a feeling that you'll be stopped for a long period of time since idling engines can lead to a drop in fuel.

Shop For Low-Cost Fuel

We get it. When you need fuel, you need it now, butif you can plan to fill up at a diesel pump station with the best pricing, this will make a big difference. It will also put your mind at ease knowing there is a fuel pump waiting for you at any given location. Just don't overfill tanks. Overfilling adds weight to vehicles and is essentially like throwing money out the window.

When Will It Get Better?

As the world watches the Ukraine crisis unfold, we see changes that are harshly affecting the way we work and travel. Shell gas station, for one, announced that they are pulling out of the Russian energy industry for good making it more difficult for drivers to find oil for their big rigs. For truckers that rely on driving for a living, the soaring fuel prices are hitting the industry hard, butyou can help yourself until we stabilize by keeping these diesel fuel cost savings tips in your back-pocket.