Fuel is a major cost for delivery fleets, but reducing it is not only about finding a lower price. Small improvements in planning, driving and record-keeping can add up over a month. Here are five practical areas to review.
1. Plan routes around the work
Group deliveries by area and avoid unnecessary return trips. A route that looks short on a map may still be expensive if it passes through heavy traffic or sends a vehicle back and forth across the corridor. Review routes regularly and ask drivers where time and fuel are being lost.
For businesses in Juja and along Thika Road, a nearby fuel stop can also reduce detours. Fuel should fit the route, not become the reason for a long diversion.
2. Watch driving behaviour
Hard acceleration, heavy braking and long idling increase fuel use. A short driver briefing and a simple expectation around smooth driving can help. The aim is not to police every movement; it is to make fuel-efficient driving part of the normal routine.
3. Keep vehicles in good condition
Tyre pressure, servicing and load weight all affect fuel use. A vehicle that is overdue for service or carrying unnecessary weight will usually use more fuel. A basic weekly check and a clear servicing schedule are inexpensive compared with the cost of avoidable consumption.
4. Use fuel records to find exceptions
Record the vehicle, date, litres, amount and odometer reading for each purchase. At the end of the month, compare consumption by vehicle and route. A sudden increase may point to a mechanical issue, a change in routes or an incorrect entry.
Our guide to fuel records for fleet managers sets out the fields that make this easier.
5. Agree clear supplier terms
Understand how your fuel account works, what references are required and how invoices or statements are provided. A clear process reduces disputes and makes it easier to reconcile fuel purchases with delivery records.
If you are reviewing your fuel arrangements, talk to Mataf Energy about a fleet account for your delivery operation.
No single change guarantees a specific saving. The value comes from reviewing the areas together and using your own records to see what works.