Fuel cards can help New Zealand businesses save on fuel, but there’s a lot more to them than just discounts at the pump. Many NZ businesses don’t realise that fuel cards come with extra perks that could save your business even more in the long run.
From discounts on vehicle maintenance, easier expense tracking, and added security features, here’s how to get the most out of your fuel card and put more money back into your business.
6 Cost Savings & Benefits Beyond Discounted Fuel
1. Discounts on Maintenance and Servicing
Keeping your vehicles in good shape can be expensive, but some fuel cards partner with providers of essential services like oil changes, tyre replacements, and general servicing that could make it more convenient to maintain your fleet. For example:
- CardSmart partners with service providers like Pit Stop for glass repairs and Bridgestone for tyres.
- BP Fuel Card allows you to use the card for maintenance at select BP and Gasoline Alley stations.
- FleetPartners Fuel Card lets you buy maintenance items like oil and vehicle products at BP, Mobil, and Z Energy.
2. Expense Tracking and Reporting Tools
One of the biggest benefits of using a fuel card is how it simplifies expense tracking and budgeting. With built-in expense management tools, fuel cards make it easy to keep an eye on your spending and manage fuel costs more efficiently. Here’s how these fuel cards can help your business stay organised and in control:
Detailed Reporting and Spending Insights
Most fuel cards provide detailed reports that show exactly where, when, and how much was spent on each fuel purchase. These reports let you break down expenses by vehicle, driver, or location, so you can spot spending patterns and identify any areas where costs could be reduced. Cards like CardSmart and BP Fuel Card offer online account management and customisable reporting options, giving you full visibility over your fuel budget.
Automated Expense Tracking
Some fuel cards automatically track each transaction, saving you the hassle of manual data entry. This automation makes it easier to monitor fuel usage across your fleet and ensures that nothing slips through the cracks. By having a clear record of all fuel-related expenses, businesses can make more informed budgeting decisions and avoid overspending.
Integration with Accounting Software
For even more convenience, some fuel cards integrate directly with accounting software like Xero. For example, the Z Business Plus Fuel Card links with Xero, allowing transaction data to sync automatically. This feature saves time on bookkeeping, reduces the chance of errors, and makes it easier to reconcile fuel expenses with the rest of your accounts. By streamlining your accounting process, you can keep finances up-to-date with minimal effort.
Setting Spending Limits and Controls
Many fuel cards allow businesses to set spending limits and purchase restrictions, giving you even more control over expenses. You can set daily, weekly, or monthly spending caps, or restrict purchases to fuel only, which is helpful if you want to avoid extra expenses on in-store items. These controls make it easier to stick to your budget and make sure that fuel funds are used appropriately.
3. Security Features
Most fuel cards come with security features that help prevent unauthorised use, which is especially useful for businesses with multiple drivers. These tools make sure that fuel is only used for business purposes and help protect against fraud.
- PIN protection and driver ID: Most fuel cards require a PIN for each purchase, and some even require driver identification. This means only authorised employees can use the card, reducing the risk of misuse. Driver ID also allows you to track who’s using the card, giving you extra control over fuel expenses.
- Fraud prevention alerts: Many fuel cards have built-in fraud detection that flags unusual spending. If there’s an unexpected charge or a sudden spike in spending, the system will alert you, so you can quickly investigate.
4. Earn Rewards and Points
Some fuel cards offer rewards programs that let you earn points on fuel purchases. These points can be redeemed for valuable perks like flights, business supplies, or in-store discounts, adding extra value to every litre of fuel. Here’s a look at some fuel card reward options in New Zealand:
- Z Business Plus Fuel Card. With the Z Business Plus Fuel Card, businesses can earn Airpoints or Fly Buys on fuel purchases. Airpoints can be redeemed for flights, while Fly Buys points can be exchanged for a range of rewards, including business supplies or equipment.
- Z & Caltex Fuel Card. This card allows users to earn 1 Airpoint dollar for every 100 litres of fuel purchased, which can be redeemed through Air New Zealand’s loyalty program. These Airpoints can be put toward flights, making this card a smart option for businesses with frequent travel needs. (Note: Airpoints are not available at Challenge Service Stations.)
- BP Fuel Card with Everyday Rewards. BP customers can join the Everyday Rewards program, where they earn 1 reward point per litre of fuel purchased or for every $1 spent in-store. Points can be redeemed for vouchers, including a $15 digital voucher once you reach 2,000 points, which can be used at BP stations or Woolworths supermarkets. BP cardholders also enjoy additional perks, like a free hot drink at Wild Bean Café with every sixth purchase and a free car wash with every sixth Ultra Clean wash at BP Connect stores.
- Mobil Smiles Driver Rewards™ Programme. Mobil’s Smiles program lets businesses earn Smiles points on every fuel purchase. These points can be redeemed instantly at the pump for immediate savings, with no minimum spend required. This program is a good fit for businesses that want a quick, hassle-free way to earn rewards on their regular fuel purchases.
- Caltex Airpoints™ at Pumped. Through Caltex’s partnership with Air New Zealand’s loyalty program, customers can earn Airpoints on every fuel purchase. This program is great for businesses that travel frequently, allowing you to accumulate Airpoints that can be redeemed for flights or other travel expenses.
5. Roadside Assistance
Some fuel cards come with the option for roadside assistance, which can be a real lifesaver if one of your vehicles breaks down. Cards like the BP Fuel Card and FleetPartners Fuel Card offer support in case of issues like a flat tyre, dead battery, or even running out of fuel.
Knowing that help is just a phone call away gives peace of mind and can save your business from unexpected service costs. For businesses with drivers covering long distances or relying on their vehicles every day, roadside assistance can reduce downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
6. Discounts on Parts and Accessories
Many fuel cards can also be used to buy essential vehicle parts and accessories, helping you save on maintenance costs. With the right fuel card, you can get these basics at discounted rates at partner stations and stores.
- Allied Petroleum Mobilcard and Z Business Plus Fuel Card let you buy oil, lubricants, and other vehicle products at participating stations, making it easy to take care of minor maintenance needs on the go.
- RD Petroleum Fuel Card can be used at BP and G.A.S. locations for in-store purchases like oil and other maintenance products, adding flexibility for quick, convenient upkeep.
- CardSmart goes a step further by offering discounts on a variety of vehicle-related services and products. Cardholders get 7.5% off parts at Pit Stop locations nationwide and can also use the card for services like Warrant of Fitness (WoF) checks, repairs, and general servicing. Plus, CardSmart offers access to special pricing with non-fuel partners like Bunnings and Armstrong.
These extra perks make it easier to keep your vehicles in top condition without overspending.
Compare Fuel Card Options Today
Are you getting the most out of your fuel card? It might be worth taking a closer look at your fuel card’s perks, or even exploring other options to make sure you’re not missing out on extra savings. If you don’t have a fuel card yet and want to see what’s available, visit comparefuelcards.co.nz to check if you’re eligible. It’s an easy way to find the best fit for your business and start saving more on fuel, while enjoying extra benefits while you’re at it!
Nov 06, 2024
Compare Fuel Cards NZ Team
Last updated Nov 06, 2024