The ultimate goal of a trucking company is to get products from one destination to another as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

This is the big picture: the reality is that a lot of small pieces go into this equation, everything from the impact of weather (a snowstorm can cause traffic jams which slows down a route) to driver performance (a driver going too fast can increase the risks of accidents).

A smart trucking company looking for ways to reduce overall costs and increase profits can also look for ways to cut down on fuel. This is extra important as fuel prices keep going up.

Consider some of these useful strategies to conserve fuel.

• Drive the speed limit. While this may seem counter-productive for an industry that is focused on getting there in a hurry, it’s actually a sensible approach. The faster you go, the less efficient your fuel use. Plus, drivers exceeding the speed limit can potentially get pulled over and get a ticket which would also slow down that day’s route, and then perhaps require them to attend court in the future.
• Turn off extras. Air conditioning can decrease overall efficiency.
• Try not to idle. A gallon of gas is estimated to be lost for every hour of idling. If you know you’ll be staying put for a while, simply kill the engine.
• Use caution at the pump. Though this takes a while, try to cut it off right before it’s full. This will avoid the risk of overflowing. Even just a little spilled fuel adds up over time.
• Monitor traffic. Try to plan your route based on minimal gear changes, which also consume fuel.
• Check tire pressure. Fuel economy can also be impacted by tires, not at their optimal pressure.
• Use cruise control. This feature can help regulate your fuel consumption instead of always adjusting.
• Fuel up early in the morning. Mid-day fueling can sometimes result in some fuel turning to vapor and not going into your tank.

For more money-saving strategies, visit Rotay Capital Finance.