Fuel costs aren’t just a line item, they can make or break your bottom line as an owner-operator. In 2025, smart O/Os are cutting costs with fuel cards that offer real savings, not hidden fees. This guide breaks down five fuel cards that deliver honest discounts, flexible options, and tools that help you stay profitable on the road.
What Makes a Fuel Card Worth It in 2025?
Not all fuel cards are created equal. Some look good up front but hit you with transaction fees, limited network stations, or tricky terms. The best fuel cards for owner-operators in 2025 have a few things in common:
- Real per-gallon discounts at major truck stops
- Wide acceptance networks (not just mom-and-pop shops)
- No or low fees for transactions and usage
- Easy-to-use apps or dashboards to track fuel spend
- Added perks like maintenance discounts or factoring integration
The Top 5 Fuel Cards for Owner-Operators
1. RTS Carrier Services Fuel Card
- Best for: Deep discounts and fuel data tools
- Why it stands out: O/Os report savings of 25-40 cents per gallon at 2,000+ locations. The mobile app gives real-time price comparisons so you can plan smart fuel stops.
- Watch out for: Limited to smaller chains, not always accepted at Love’s or Pilot.
2. NASTC Fuel Card (National Association of Small Trucking Companies)
- Best for: Owner-operators who qualify for membership
- Why it stands out: Offers steep discounts at major chains like TA and Petro. Membership includes additional benefits like compliance help.
- Watch out for: Annual membership fee and application process.
3. Mudflap App
- Best for: Independent drivers looking for no-hassle savings
- Why it stands out: No credit check, no fees, and instant discounts at over 1,500 independent truck stops. Great transparency and ease of use.
- Watch out for: Not accepted at big-name chains like Love’s or Pilot.
4. TCS Fuel Card (TransConnect Services)
- Best for: Full-service fuel management
- Why it stands out: Accepted at over 1,000 locations with discounts up to 45 cents per gallon. 24/7 support and a strong mobile app make it a solid all-in-one option.
- Watch out for: Requires linking to a business checking account.
5. Comdata MyFleet Program
- Best for: Larger O/O operations or fleets
- Why it stands out: Accepted at 8,000+ locations including Love’s, Pilot, and Flying J. Offers back-end reporting tools and integrations that can help streamline fuel expense tracking.
- Watch out for: Monthly fees may apply depending on usage.
Pros, Cons & What to Watch Out For
Here’s a quick look at how the top picks stack up:
- RTS: Great savings, smaller network
- NASTC: High-tier discounts, but membership required
- Mudflap: Simple, transparent, but not chain-friendly
- TCS: Full support, good network, requires business account
- Comdata: Widely accepted, but may cost more in fees
What This Means for Your Bottom Line
Fuel is one of the biggest variable costs in trucking. Picking the right card could mean thousands in savings each year. For example:
- Saving 30 cents per gallon on 2,500 gallons/month = $750/month
- Annual savings = $9,000
That’s money back in your business, not the pump.
A Better Way to Find Fit-First Jobs
If you’re tired of juggling fuel costs and job headaches, you’re not alone. Drivers 1st helps owner-operators like you cut through the BS and find gigs that actually support your business goals, not just fill a seat.
How to Take Action
Here are a few steps to make your next fuel stop smarter:
- Compare card networks and check where you fuel most.
- Watch for hidden fees in the fine print.
- Try a no-risk card like Mudflap to start.
Then, take it further:
→ Search CDL Jobs That Match Your Business Goals
→ Talk to a Driver Advocate (No Pressure)
Conclusion:
The right fuel card is more than a savings tool, it’s part of running smarter. Whether you’re solo or building a fleet, these five options can help protect your profit in 2025.
Whether you’re exploring cards or looking for better loads, Drivers 1st is here when you need a partner who gets it.
For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!