How Truck Drivers Can Improve Fuel Efficiency | West Coast Enterprises

There are so many benefits to working as a truck driver, but one of the major downsides is how much fuel you have to utilize on each trip. While stopping for fuel can provide a welcome break so you can stretch your legs and move around, it can be monotonous and time-consuming—which is the last thing you want if you have a tight deadline.

Additionally, fueling up can be costly. With diesel costing over $3 a gallon most of the time, every fuel stop can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the size of your truck’s tank!

While needing fuel is inevitable, there are some things that drivers can do to increase their fuel economy when they hit the road.

How to Save Money on Fuel Costs as a Truck Driver

Manage your cruising speeds. Did you know that for every mile in speed you increase, you lose 0.14 miles per gallon in fuel efficiency? While that may not sound like a lot, with the already low miles per gallon in 18-wheelers, that can really add up! While it is important to drive with the speed of traffic for safety, keep it in check to prevent costing yourself extra in fuel.

Always check your tire pressure before trips. Driving on optimal tire pressure is one of the best things you can do for your fuel economy, so be sure you are checking each tire’s PSI before you set out on your trip. Not only can tire pressure lower with time, but it can also fluctuate due to temperatures, so checking it often is important.

Look into trucking-specific GPS systems. There are many programs out there that can help you find the stops with the lowest diesel prices, and that sort of savings can really add up! From phone apps to entire GPS systems, finding one that can help you find the best deals is a must.

Avoid idling when possible. Idling is not only a habit that can suck fuel unnecessarily, but it is also bad for the environment. Keep idling to a minimum in your truck so you can reduce the fuel you are consuming.

In need of new equipment to keep you as efficient as possible on the road? We can help! Contact us today to see our current inventory.