Fuel Up! Making Smart Choices When Choosing Your Fuel

As an owner-operator, making smart choices when choosing your fuel is extremely important. Day or night, fueling up should constantly be on your radar. If you are a first-time or veteran owner-operator, keep these tips in mind the next time you make a pit stop.

• Watch the drag. Improving your big rig’s aerodynamics is essential as a professional driver. Nearly half of your fuel is consumed from your truck’s constant need to reduce “drag”. Consider using side fairings on your rig as a physical drag barrier, therefore easing the stress on your truck and ultimately consuming less fuel.
• Be aware of traffic. Turning on and off your truck can take a great deal of fuel. It is important to constantly check on traffic conditions so that you can avoid heavy-traffic areas. Even shifting gears can lower your fuel levels - try your best to keep at a constant, steady pace to avoid gas station stops.
• Check fuel levels regularly. As an owner-operator, you should always be watching your fuel levels and making sure that you have enough to get you where you want to go. Don’t wait until the last minute to fuel up, because this will add unnecessary stress to your rig.
• Fuel responsibly. Consider using a premium grade fuel instead of standard diesel when filling up. This may improve your mileage and save you trips to the gas station on the job. It also may be worth waking up a little earlier to fill up before your road trip, and pump at a low fuel level.

If you have questions about fueling up as an owner-operator, contact Crossroads Leasing & Finance, LLC.