How Smart Truckers Save Big on Fuel and Tolls

Simple, Proven Tips Every Owner-Operator Should Use

Fuel and tolls are two of the biggest expenses for truckers, especially independent owner-operators trying to run lean and stay profitable. At Fleet North Trucks, we work with drivers every day who are looking for smarter ways to cut costs without cutting corners. Here’s how the pros do it.

⛽ 1. Avoid Fueling Up in High-Tax States

One of the easiest ways to save on fuel is to pay attention to where you fill up. Some states—like California, Illinois, and Pennsylvania—are known for their sky-high fuel taxes, while others like Missouri, South Carolina, and Texas often have significantly cheaper prices.

Pro Tip:
Check fuel prices along your route using apps like TruckerPath or Mudflap, and plan to top off in the cheapest state before crossing into an expensive one. Even saving $0.30 per gallon can add up fast across 200 gallons.

🛣 2. Use Alternative Routes to Skip Expensive Tolls

Toll roads like I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) can drain your profits if you're not careful—sometimes costing over $200 for a single trip. The good news? There are often alternate routes that take just a little longer but save you a lot more.

Example:
Instead of I-76, try I-80 across Pennsylvania—it’s toll-free and offers solid road conditions.
Likewise, consider U.S. routes and state highways in areas where interstates are toll-heavy.

Pro Tip:
Use a GPS app with truck routing and toll avoidance features. Google Maps won’t always cut it—tools like TruckerPath or Hammer (by SmartTruckRoute) are more trucker-friendly.

🏪 3. Fuel at Mom-and-Pop Stops, Not Big Chains

Large truck stop chains like Pilot and TA are convenient but often mark up fuel prices significantly, especially near interstates. Independent fuel stops and regional chains can offer better rates and less congestion.

Why it matters:
Not only do you save on fuel, but local shops often appreciate your business more, offer better service, and may even throw in extras like free parking or showers.

Pro Tip:
Use the Fleet North Fuel Card to find and maximize discounts at participating independent stations nationwide. And don’t forget—many smaller stops also have better home-cooked food!

🧠 4. Plan Your Route with Savings in Mind

Fuel savings and toll savings go hand-in-hand with smarter route planning. Before every haul, take 5–10 minutes to map out a plan that considers fuel stops, toll avoidance, and rest areas.

Tools to try:

• Fleet North’s route planner

• ProMiles or TruckerPath for fuel cost forecasts

• Waze for local traffic and detour suggestions

Bonus Tip:
Avoid idling for long periods and use cruise control when possible—these habits improve fuel economy over time.

🚛 Fleet North Makes It Easier

With our route planning tools, exclusive fuel discounts, and real-time driver support, Fleet North Trucks helps you keep more of your money on every mile.

Whether you’re leased on with us or just looking for smarter ways to operate, we’re here to help you succeed—not nickel-and-dime you.