As a sole trader, managing fuel costs is crucial. Fuel cards make it easy to save, track spending, and cut down on paperwork, helping you stay in control and on the road.
If you’re a sole trader spending most of your time on the road, fuel is part of the job. Whether running deliveries, heading to client sites, or clocking up miles as a mobile service, keeping track of your fuel spend can quickly turn into a headache.
That’s where fuel cards come in. They’re becoming more popular with self-employed tradespeople, van drivers, and one-person businesses who want a simpler, smarter way to pay for fuel. So, what’s the best fuel card for these sole traders? The answer depends on how you work, where you fill up, and what kind of service you're after.
If you’re still paying at the pump with your own bank card and collecting receipts, you’re probably spending more time and money than you need to. Here’s what a fuel card offers instead:
Money saved on every litre
Many cards offer access to fixed weekly prices or discounts below the pump price. That means less guesswork and more control over your fuel bills.
Reduced paperwork
With all your purchases rolled into one weekly invoice, there’s no need to chase paper receipts or manually log every fill-up. It’s quicker, neater, and easier come tax time.
Clearer tracking
Most providers give you access to online tools and fuel usage reports, so you can see exactly how much you’re spending and when. Handy for budgeting, and even handier if HMRC ever shows up.
The right fuel card for you depends on how you work day to day. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
Some cards just use the pump price, while others offer fixed weekly rates. If fuel prices are on the rise, a fixed rate could help you save. If you fill up at cheaper stations, pump price cards might work out better.
Make sure the card works where you actually fill up. A wide network of stations, especially those near your usual routes, makes life easier. Look out for cards linked to major fuel brands or supermarket stations like Morrisons, Tesco, or Sainsbury’s.
You want a card that sends you clean, easy-to-read invoices and gives you online access to your spending. Fewer spreadsheets. Less faff. More time doing what you’re paid for.
Watch out for cards with monthly charges, transaction fees, or complicated pricing structures. There are great options out there with no minimum usage and straightforward terms.
Whether you need national coverage, flexible pricing, or just something to tidy up the admin, there’s a card for you.
Whether you fill up daily or weekly, the ‘right’ card comes down to how you work as a sole trader. Focus on station coverage, pricing, and how easy the admin is to manage. The best card for you is the one that saves you time and keeps your costs in check.
Fuel cards are best if you’re:
Whether you're filling up locally or covering long routes, our fuel cards are designed to work around your business. Get access to over 7,600 stations, competitive weekly pricing, and support for all major brands, all without the usual admin hassle. Track every litre, stay on top of spending, and make tax time easier with clear weekly invoices and online tools that put you in control.
Find the perfect fuel card with InterFuels – start with your free quote now!