If you manage a fleet, fuel is one of your biggest costs. You want fuel delivery to be affordable. But you also need it to arrive exactly when you need it. Too often, companies focus only on price and later face late deliveries, hidden fees, or other surprises.
There is a better way to balance cost and reliability when buying fuel.
Why the Cheapest Price Can Cost More
- A very low price may mean the supplier is stretched thin and can’t deliver on time.
- Hidden fees (off-hours delivery, small volumes) can sneak in.
- Without a good contract, you might be exposed when market prices jump.
- Companies that cut on costs may also cut on service.
When deliveries are late or inconsistent and they aren’t answering your calls, the “savings” vanish.
Three Smart Buying Strategies
Choose the right contract type. Ask about bulk pricing, if they offer forward programs, and how they structure pricing. Can you get a fixed price or any protection against the market? A smart partner is thinking about more than just the market price today and they can help you design a strategy that works for your business and your budget.
Ask for clear-cut billing. Invoices should show actual gallons delivered, any extra fees, and delivery dates. No surprises.
Work with a supplier who has local reach: If the terminals, tanks, and dispatch are nearby, delivery is faster and more reliable. Local knowledge matters.
What to Check Before You Sign
- Does the supplier deliver to all your sites?
- What is their average delivery lead time?
- Will they notify you in advance of delays?
- Are there surcharges for nights, weekends, or emergency calls?
- Do they provide transparent invoices and an online portal?
Why It Matters
When fuel cost is under control and delivery is consistent:
- Drivers don’t waste time waiting at stations.
- You avoid emergency retail mark-ups.
- Your operations stay smooth and predictable.
In short, the “best price” is not just the lowest per-gallon cost. It’s the one that keeps your fleet moving.
At Sprague, we deliver fuel that meets both cost and reliability expectations. With local account managers, flexible pricing programs, and an extensive regional terminal network, we help businesses get the right price and the right support. Want to see how it works for your sites? Reach out to us today.
