What is a fuel card?

Managing a fleet while controlling fuel expenses can be challenging for New Zealand businesses. Fuel cards, such as CardSmart, offer a practical solution by providing a streamlined way to manage fuel costs and simplify operations. Here’s how they work and why they are becoming a vital asset for fleets across the country. 

What is a fuel card? 

Fuel cards are specifically designed for purchasing fuel and vehicle-related expenses. Unlike credit cards, fuel cards can provide businesses with better control over spending. This includes limiting purchases to fuel or selecting additional options, such as vehicle servicing. 

Businesses can assign fuel cards to individual drivers or specific vehicles, making it easier to monitor spending on a granular level. Managers can set transaction limits and track usage via online platforms for added security and accountability. 

How do fuel cards work? 

For drivers, using a fuel card is simple. They can refuel at the pump, pay with the card, and the entire transaction is logged digitally. This eliminates the need for messy paperwork or storing multiple receipts. 

Fuel cards also simplify financial processes. Detailed invoices are provided, with all transactions categorised and GST clearly outlined. This streamlines tax compliance and helps businesses manage expenses more accurately. 

Advanced features, like kilometre tracking, allow businesses to differentiate between private and business vehicle use. This assists with providing oversight on operating costs or reimbursements. 

How fuel cards save businesses time and money 

Fuel cards are designed to deliver savings while improving efficiency. For larger fleets, every litre of fuel used can be tracked, helping companies monitor and optimise their fuel spend. This level of precision prevents overspending and helps identify inefficiencies. 

They also reduce administrative tasks, as expenses are consolidated into a single invoice. This frees up staff to focus on other priorities. Additionally, some fuel cards provide access to discounted fuel networks, allowing businesses to benefit from competitive prices every time their drivers refuel. 

The added convenience of fuel cards 

Fuel cards give your drivers access to a wide network of fuelling locations, such as CardSmart which covers over 90% of the country’s stations. Whether refuelling at major oil brands or supermarket service stations, drivers can stay on their routes without unnecessary diversions. This saves time and keeps your operations running smoothly. 

Furthermore, businesses can implement controls like restricting card usage to specific fuel types or setting daily spending caps. These customisations provide better compliance with company policies and help prevent unauthorised expenses. 

Alternatives to fuel cards 

Some businesses rely on traditional methods, such as reimbursing drivers for fuel expenses or issuing corporate credit cards. However, these approaches often fall short. Reimbursement can leave employees waiting to recoup out-of-pocket expenses, while corporate credit cards lack the controls needed to prevent misuse. 

Fuel cards can help to eliminate these challenges by offering a purpose-built solution for managing fuel expenses. They provide better oversight, enhanced security, and simplified reporting, making them a valuable investment for businesses of all sizes. 

Why choose CardSmart? 

CardSmart is a leading fuel card solution tailored specifically for New Zealand businesses. With access to an extensive network of fuel stations and advanced management tools, CardSmart ensures your fleet stays on the road while you maintain control over your budget. 

Whether you manage a small team or run nationwide operations, CardSmart delivers the flexibility, savings, and convenience you need to keep your business moving forward. 

Explore the potential of fuel cards today and see how CardSmart can transform the way you manage your fleet. A smarter, more efficient approach to fuel management is just a swipe away.