How truckers can save on fuel costs

Truckers deserve every break they can get. With fuel prices headed northward, it’s wise for semitruck drivers to save money on fuel.

Check out the following fuel-saving tips suggested by other OTR truckers.

Slow Down

Frequently accelerating and traveling faster than 55 mph is bad for fuel efficiency. Leaving plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead reduces the need to frequently brake and accelerate.

Use Your Momentum

Momentum is a powerful force to use to your advantage when driving. Before ascending a hill, harness the forward momentum to carry your truck forward. When descending the other side, use the momentum and not the gas pedal.

Stop Topping off Your Tank

Fuel expands inside the tank, so filling up beyond the tank’s capacity leads to overflow and waste. Once the weather gets warmer, avoid overfilling, as heat increases fuel expansion.

Keep Your Cargo Load Low

Stabilize the cargo for better gas mileage. Evenly distribute and pack your cargo low. Strap it tightly to eliminate resistance and drag. When hauling uneven loads, secure cargo as close as possible to the front of your trailer.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Inflate semitruck tires to the manufacturer’s recommended psi. One tire underinflated by 10 psi can drop a truck’s mpg by 1%. Chronically underinflated tires experience unnecessary wear and tear.

Keep It in High Gear

Reduce fuel consumption and find that sweet spot for cruising. Travelling too fast in low gear burns up to 45% of extra fuel. Let your gearbox do the work instead of your foot pedals for maximum fuel efficiency.

Stop Idling

You burn roughly a gallon of fuel for each hour spent idling. It’s better to shut off the engine when your wait is longer than a few minutes.

The Shortest Distance Is a Straight Line

Your GPS is your friend. Use it to find the shortest route to your destination. Detours and traffic jams can add time to your trip, so plan stops efficiently. Fuel up at truck stops where you can eat, hit the restroom and head out with your snacks and some coffee.

Keep It on Cruise

As long as the weather cooperates, save fuel dollars by rolling along using cruise control. By running your truck’s engine between 1250 and 1350 RPM, you maximize the fuel efficiency.

Save Money on Fuel

Download apps like Trucker Path to spot the best prices for fill-ups and alert you to truck stops with open parking spots. Other apps and discount fuel cards save you money on gas or offer rewards just for scanning fuel receipts.

Do you have any additional tips for saving money on fuel costs? Leave us a message below.