9 Ways for Truck Drivers to Save on Fuel
As a truck driver or fleet owner, you’re well aware that fuel costs can greatly impact your profits. With diesel prices ranging from $450 to $950 per fill-up, every penny counts. Here are nine practical tips to help you save on fuel:
1. Monitor tire pressure regularly:
Properly inflated tires can improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance, which decreases the amount of energy required to move your truck down the road. Underinflated tires, on the other hand, create more friction and drag, which can cause your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. By checking your tire pressure regularly and keeping it at the recommended level, you can maximize fuel efficiency and prolong the lifespan of your tires.
2. Avoid idling:
Idling your engine wastes fuel and can significantly decrease your fuel efficiency. If you know you’ll be stopped for more than a few minutes, it’s worth shutting off your engine to save fuel. In addition, some states have idling laws that prohibit idling for more than a certain amount of time, so be aware of these regulations and avoid getting fined.
3. Stay in a high gear:
Using higher gears can help you save fuel by reducing engine RPMs and optimizing your engine’s power output. However, you don’t want to lug the engine by using too high a gear, as this can cause your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Finding the right balance and using incremental acceleration and braking can help you optimize your fuel efficiency.
4. Use momentum on hills:
Building up momentum before approaching a hill can help you coast down the other side without using the gas pedal, which can save fuel. Slowing down early when approaching an exit or hill can help you gain momentum and reduce the amount of energy required to accelerate again.
5. Use cruise control:
Maintaining a consistent speed can help you save fuel by keeping your engine in the “sweet spot” of its power curve. Using cruise control can help you achieve this without having to constantly adjust your speed, which can lead to unnecessary fuel consumption.
6. Regulate speed:
Faster acceleration and speeds over 55mph can decrease fuel efficiency, so try to keep your speed below this limit whenever possible. Lowering your speed can also increase your following distance, which can reduce the need to frequently speed up and slow down.
7. Find the lowest cost fuel:
Fuel prices can vary widely depending on where you are, so it’s worth taking the time to research and compare prices. Using apps like Trucker Path can help you find the lowest cost fuel and save money.
8. Don’t overfill your tank:
Overfilling your fuel tank can cause wasteful overflow and add unnecessary weight to your vehicle, which can decrease fuel efficiency. It’s best to fill your tank to the recommended level and avoid overfilling.
9. Keep cargo load low and even:
Drag and resistance can decrease fuel efficiency, so it’s important to keep your cargo load as low and even as possible. Securing your cargo properly and positioning higher cargo closer to the front of the trailer can help minimize drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Take action on these fuel-saving tips now that you have learned about them at no cost. When you next hit the road, try them out and see the difference it makes in your expense report and pocket.
Do you have additional fuel-saving tips for truck drivers? Share them in the comment section below to assist your fellow drivers. This will promote collaboration and knowledge exchange within the trucking community, leading to more innovative solutions to reduce fuel costs and increase profits.
