Fuel Card Comparison: Best Options for Florida Truckers (2025)

Introduction

Fuel represents 30-40% of a trucking operation’s expenses, and choosing the right fuel card can save Florida truckers $3,000 to $15,000 annually. With rising fuel costs, tight margins, and countless card options—many with hidden fees—it’s challenging to know which program delivers the most value. Florida truckers face additional considerations such as port traffic, tourist season surges, and hurricane contingencies.

This guide compares the top fuel cards available in Florida, focusing on real discounts, network coverage, and operating costs. Whether you’re an owner-operator or manage a fleet, the right choice can improve cash flow and simplify reporting. Florida 595 Truck Stop conveniently accepts all major fuel cards, making it an ideal base for drivers traveling I-595 and surrounding corridors.

Understanding Fuel Card Benefits

Financial Advantages

• Volume discounts of 3–15¢ per gallon
• No or low transaction fees
• Extended payment terms for better cash flow
• Detailed reporting for tax documentation
• Fraud protection and secure controls

Operational Benefits

• Driver spending controls and purchase alerts
• Route planning tools to reduce deadhead miles
• Maintenance and IFTA reporting integration
• 24/7 customer support and mobile apps

Florida-Specific Advantages

• Strong coverage near ports like Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville
• Reliable fueling during hurricane season
• Adaptability during peak tourist traffic periods
• State tax handling for simplified reporting

Major Fuel Card Programs

Comdata

Comdata operates a 7,000+ location network, averaging 5–10¢ per gallon savings. Transaction fees range from $0–$2, and terms are net 7–10 days. It offers robust reporting and excellent Florida coverage. Florida 595: Accepted.

EFS (WEX Fleet)

With 14,000+ locations, EFS provides 3–8¢ per gallon discounts. Plans vary in fees, but its mobile app and weekly billing cycle make it a strong option. Florida 595: Accepted.

Fuelman

Fuelman’s 50,000+ network offers 2–6¢ per gallon savings with monthly fees. Flexible terms and control features suit mixed fleets. Florida 595: Accepted.

Fleet One

This 8,000+ location network provides 4–9¢ discounts and low fees with net 7-day terms. Its simple system fits small operations. Florida 595: Accepted.

T-Card (TravelCenters)

T-Card focuses on TA/Petro locations with 8–15¢ discounts and no transaction fees. Weekly billing is standard, but Florida coverage is limited. Florida 595: Verify current acceptance.

Discount Structures Explained

Retail Minus Programs

These offer a posted price minus a fixed cents-per-gallon discount. They’re predictable and easy to calculate—ideal for consistent routes.

Cost Plus Programs

These use wholesale cost plus markup. Savings vary with market prices and may be higher than retail-minus programs if monitored closely.

Hybrid Programs

Hybrid cards combine retail-minus and cost-plus structures, offering flexibility and network-specific optimization but requiring more tracking.

Hidden Fees to Watch

• Setup: $0–$50
• Monthly: $0–$25
• Transaction: $0–$2.50
• Over-limit: $25–$50
• Late payment: 1.5–2.5% monthly
• Replacement card: $5–$15

In Florida, watch for tourist-area premiums, port location fees, and hurricane surcharges.

Choosing the Right Card

Fleet Size Factors

Owner-operators often prefer simple, low-fee cards. Small fleets need balanced cost and control, while large fleets require maximum driver oversight.

Route Considerations

Local haulers can choose narrow networks, regional fleets need Florida-focused coverage, and long-haul carriers should prioritize national networks.

Cash Flow Needs

Look for billing terms that match your revenue cycles. Some cards offer advances or seasonal limit adjustments for flexibility.

Application Process

• Business documents, DOT/MC numbers
• Credit check and bank statements
• Insurance verification
• Projected fuel volume

Standard approval is 3–5 days, expedited in 24 hours, with limited instant approvals available.

Florida 595 Fuel Program

Florida 595 Truck Stop accepts major cards, offers competitive pricing, 24/7 fueling, DEF at the pump, and loyalty benefits. Fleet discounts and volume bonuses stack with card savings for maximum value.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which card has the best discounts? Programs vary, but T-Card offers the deepest TA/Petro savings.
• Are fuel cards worth it for owner-operators? Yes—lower costs and simplified records.
• Can I use multiple fuel cards? Absolutely, to maximize network coverage.
• What credit score is needed? Most cards require fair to good credit.
• How fast can I get a card? Often within 1–3 days.
• Do cards work everywhere? Major brands cover most stops, but check local acceptance.
• Can I control driver spending? Yes, with PINs and purchase limits.
• What about DEF? Most cards allow DEF purchases at participating locations.

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all fuel card. Evaluate discounts, fees, and coverage to choose the best program for your routes and fleet size. Florida 595 Truck Stop accepts all major cards, providing competitive prices and added loyalty benefits.

Maximize your fuel savings today—call 954-966-9072 or visit our fuel prices page for the latest rates.