Fuel is the biggest cost in trucking. That’s why fuel fraud has become one of the most common and costly problems in the industry. Fuel theft and diesel fraud are costing truckers millions every year. And the worst part? Most of the time, it happens quietly without you even noticing until it’s too late. At DOXA LLC, we’ve seen how smart and experienced drivers and Owner Operators can still fall victim to fuel scams and lose hundreds of dollars in a week.
HOW FUEL CARDS WORK
Most truckers use fuel cards. These cards help pay for diesel, DEF, oil, and more. Some are prepaid, others are credit cards (you fuel now, pay later). At DOXA LLC, we use RTS fuel cards, managed through FleetOne/WEX. Each driver gets their own login. The system lets you: activate the card before you fuel and deactivate the card right after. This simple step alone can prevent most frauds. Yet many don’t do it and that’s where the trouble begins.
COMMON TYPES OF DIESEL FRAUD
A card left active. If someone else gets ahold of it, they can fuel easily even if you’re nowhere near the pump. Our solution is to stick to a routine every single time you are at the pump: Activate ➝ Fuel ➝ Deactivate. It takes 10 seconds. Saves thousands.
Card cloning by truck stop employees. In some cases, fuel desk workers can clone your card info when it’s swiped. Our solution? Most major truck stops now offer pay-at-the-pump via phone apps. No swipe needed. Stay outside. Pay smart. Stay safe.
Driver-to-driver theft. Unfortunately, some drivers fill up other trucks using your card without your knowledge. We recommend watching the MPG (Miles per Gallon)! If MPG drops way below your truck’s normal range (usually \~7 MPG for modern trucks), but the load weight and idle time stays the same, something’s off. Track fuel-to-mile ratio weekly or monthly and ask questions when numbers don’t match.
SMART TIPS
· Some fuel programs are going “cardless.” Drivers use an ID number instead. It sounds safer, but we’re still testing it. Have you tried this? Let us know what you think.
· Compare fuel discounts before you fill up. Some carriers pass savings on others don’t.
- Work with companies that pre-pay fuel and deduct later. It’s cleaner and faster.
- Always ask for your fuel breakdown. You have the right to know where your money goes.
NEED HELP?
We’ve helped dozens of Owner Operators find better fuel systems, stronger discounts, and safe, trackable setups. If you want help comparing providers or joining our fuel program, reach out anytime. We’ll walk you through it step by step.
Stay smart. Stay fueled. Stay protected.