Unraveling hidden fees, poor customer service and inefficient operations. 

For businesses that rely on fleet and asset management, fleet cards have become indispensable tools to stabilize expenses against variable costs, like fuel. However, not all fleet card providers are created equal. Many businesses that have been using Wex, Comdata, AtoB, and other similar providers are discovering that the grass may be greener with a better expense management platform.

1. Hidden fees: The silent profit erosion

One of the biggest gripes among fleet operators is the presence of hidden fees that often go unnoticed until they balloon into significant expenses. These fees may include transaction fees, maintenance fees, even hidden surcharges imposed on certain transactions. Despite claiming transparency, some fleet card providers often fail to disclose these charges upfront or bury them in lengthy terms of use contracts, leading to unpleasant surprises on monthly statements. Switching to a different fleet card provider that prioritizes fee transparency can help businesses regain control of their expenses.

See the hidden fees common fleet card providers may charge >

2. Poor customer service: The frustration that keeps your drivers off the road

Customer service can leave many drivers frustrated when their cards stop working at the pump, while managers may face frustration around card replacements, reporting and reporting fraud. Unfortunately, many users of certain fleet card providers report subpar customer service, with some providers even charging fees for these services.

Long wait times, unresponsive representatives, and trouble resolving issues can lead to unnecessary downtime and added stress for fleet operators and drivers alike. Switching to a provider with a reputation for excellent customer service can ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, enabling smoother operations and improved peace of mind.

3. Limited acceptance: Restricted discount networks and partners

Some fleet card providers have limited acceptance networks, meaning that drivers may face restrictions on where they can refuel or make purchases imposed by their providers. This lack of acceptance can prevent fleet operators from optimizing routes and lead to additional fuel expenses.

Switching to a fleet card provider with a broad acceptance network that routes to the best discounts ensures that drivers can refuel at a wide range of locations, maximizing convenience and efficiency. Beyond just fuel, fleet managers should consider fleet cards that address their most costly expenses. Things like maintenance services and parts, tires, fuel inefficiencies, and in-store discounts on food and drink.

Explore the Motive Card discount partner network >

4. Inflexible features: Capabilities that don’t suit your business

Every fleet is unique, and fleet card providers should offer customizable features that cater to specific business requirements. Some providers, however, have rigid features that can’t be customized. Switching to a provider that offers flexibility in setting spending limits, access controls, fraud detection, and reporting options allows fleet managers to tailor their fleet card program to meet these needs. 

Furthermore, fleet card providers may only address expense management while ignoring the full transparency provided when combining your financial and fleet operations, all-in-one platform. Subpar integrations from fleet providers into existing fleet management platforms can leave fleet managers with a limited view on saving opportunities that reach beyond fuel discounts.

5. Outdated technology: The roadblock to efficient operations

The fleet management landscape is continuously evolving, and advancements in technology are reshaping the industry. Some fleet card providers may lag behind in adopting new technologies, leaving businesses without access to modern tools that enhance fleet management. 

By switching to a provider that embraces innovation, businesses can leverage advanced capabilities. For example, they can manage spend in the same platform as their fleet. Through precise fraud identification, they can protect cardholders from scammers, and streamline fuel and operational efficiency through automation. 

Switching fleet card providers can be a strategic move that addresses common complaints such as hidden fees, poor customer service, limited acceptance, inflexible features, and outdated technology. By choosing a provider that prioritizes transparency, customer support, and innovation, fleet managers can gain better control over expenses, optimize operations, and focus on what truly matters – ensuring that their fleet runs efficiently.

Before making the switch, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, compare different providers, and read user reviews to ensure a seamless transition. Investing time in finding the right fleet card partner can be a game-changer, unlocking the full potential of your operations.

If you’re ready to give up manual IFTA reporting, protect your bottom line with automated fraud detection, and easily identify savings opportunities, consider the Motive Card.

You deserve a better way of doing business with a partner that provides full visibility into your fleet and financial operations, all-in-one platform.

Learn about the Motive Card >