Rising diesel prices are squeezing profit margins for truckers nationwide. With fuel costs representing up to 40% of operating expenses, finding the right fuel card can mean the difference between profit and loss.
After analyzing dozens of fuel discount cards, I’ve discovered that RTS fuel cards offer average savings of 25¢ per gallon with zero fees at over 3,000 locations. This makes them particularly attractive for small to medium trucking businesses looking to cut costs without complicated contracts.
This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about RTS fuel cards. You’ll learn about their features, real savings potential, hidden benefits, pricing structure, and how they compare to major competitors in 2026.
What Are RTS Fuel Cards?
RTS fuel cards are specialized payment cards designed to help truckers save money on diesel and gasoline purchases. They’re offered by RTS Carrier Solutions, a company that has served the trucking industry since 1995.
Company Background and Credibility
RTS Carrier Solutions started as a trucking factoring company focused on helping owner-operators manage cash flow. Their primary business remains invoice factoring and working capital solutions for the transportation industry.
The fuel card program launched as a value-added service for their factoring clients. Today, it’s available to any trucking business, whether you use their factoring services or not.
With over 30,000 customer responses and a Net Promoter Score of 80, RTS has built a solid reputation. They’ve been voted one of Kansas City’s “Best Places to Work” for five consecutive years.
Three Types of RTS Fuel Cards Explained
RTS offers three distinct trucking fuel card options to meet different business needs:
1. RTS Fleet One Fuel Card
- Designed specifically for diesel purchases
- Unsecured credit card (requires credit check)
- Best for established businesses with good credit
- Includes maintenance purchase capabilities
2. RTS Self-funded Fuel Card
- Prepaid card option with no credit check required
- Load funds using any debit or credit card
- Perfect for new businesses or those rebuilding credit
- Same discount rates as credit options
3. RTS Mixed Fleet Fuel Card
- Covers both diesel and unleaded gasoline
- Ideal for companies with mixed vehicle fleets
- Includes vans, pickup trucks, and semi-trucks
- Broader acceptance for diverse fuel needs
How RTS Fuel Cards Work?
The application process for RTS fleet fuel cards is straightforward and typically takes 24-48 hours. You’ll need basic business information, DOT number, and banking details for the credit card options.
Once approved, you receive a weekly credit line of up to $3,200 per truck. This rolling credit resets each week, providing consistent cash flow for fuel purchases without tying up working capital.
Payment terms follow a standard net-7 or net-10 cycle, depending on your agreement. The self-funded option works differently – you preload funds and spend only what’s available.
RTS Fuel Card Features That Matter Most
Understanding the core features helps you maximize savings and efficiency. Let’s examine what sets RTS apart in the competitive fuel card market.
Fuel Discount Network and Coverage
RTS fuel cards are accepted at over 3,000 locations nationwide, with the strongest coverage in major trucking corridors. The network includes:
- 850+ Pilot Flying J locations – The backbone of the network
- Speedway stations – Extensive Midwest and East Coast coverage
- Circle K locations – Strong presence in Southern states
- Casey’s General Stores – Rural and small-town coverage
- Sapp Bros Travel Centers – Strategic Midwest locations
Geographic coverage is strongest along major interstate highways. However, coverage can be sparse in some Western states and remote areas.
Real Savings Breakdown
The advertised 25¢ per gallon average discount on diesel translates to significant annual savings. Here’s what real-world savings look like:
| Annual Mileage | Fuel Usage (6 MPG) | Annual Savings at 25¢/gal |
| 50,000 miles | 8,333 gallons | $2,083 |
| 100,000 miles | 16,667 gallons | $4,167 |
| 150,000 miles | 25,000 gallons | $6,250 |
Actual discounts vary by location and purchase volume. Some highlighted stations offer up to 40¢ off per gallon during promotional periods.
Point-of-sale discounts mean savings appear immediately on your receipt. There’s no waiting for rebates or statement credits like some competitors require.
RTS Pro Mobile App Deep Dive
The RTS Pro mobile app serves as your command center for maximizing fuel savings. Available for both iOS and Android, it provides essential tools for drivers and fleet managers.
Key app features include:
- Real-time fuel pricing at all network locations
- GPS-based station finder with route planning
- Digital card management with instant lock/unlock
- Invoice submission for factoring clients
- Savings tracker showing daily and monthly totals
Users report occasional delays in price updates, typically 2-3 hours. The app works offline for basic functions but requires internet for price updates and card management.
Fleet Management Tools
RTS includes ProTransport software integration with their fuel cards. This comprehensive fleet tracking platform helps manage multiple aspects of your trucking business.
The IFTA reporting feature automatically tracks state-by-state fuel purchases. This saves hours during quarterly tax filing and reduces errors from manual entry.
Daily savings reports show exactly how much you’ve saved at each location. Export these reports to integrate with your trucking bookkeeping software for streamlined accounting.
Hidden Benefits Most Reviews Miss
Beyond fuel savings, RTS fuel cards offer several valuable features that many reviews overlook. These additional benefits can significantly impact your bottom line.
Maintenance and Service Discounts
Your RTS fuel card works at over 200 truck care centers nationwide. This includes major chains like Southern Tire Mart, Boss Shop, and Pilot Flying J truck care centers.
Service discounts typically include:
- 10-15% off tire purchases and installation
- 5-10% off oil changes and PM services
- Discounted DOT inspections
- Priority service scheduling
- Extended warranty options on select services
One owner-operator reported saving $1,200 annually on maintenance alone. Combined with fuel savings, the total benefit package becomes substantial.
Bundling with RTS Factoring
Combining RTS fuel cards with their factoring services unlocks additional savings. Bundled clients receive enhanced fuel discounts, often 5-10¢ more per gallon than standalone card users.
The bundling benefits include:
- Same-day payment on freight invoices
- Lower factoring rates (typically 0.5% reduction)
- Single platform for fuel and cash flow management
- Dedicated account management
- Access to exclusive load board with verified shippers
This integrated approach particularly benefits small fleet operators. Managing fuel costs and cash flow through one provider simplifies operations and reduces administrative overhead.
Security and Fraud Prevention
Fuel card fraud costs the trucking industry millions annually. RTS addresses this with robust security features that protect your business.
The instant card lock feature allows immediate deactivation through the app or phone. If a card is lost or stolen, you can prevent unauthorized use within seconds.
Real-time transaction alerts notify you of every purchase. Set custom alerts for purchases over certain amounts or outside normal hours to catch suspicious activity early.
RTS Fuel Card Pricing: The Complete Truth
Transparent pricing makes RTS attractive for small fleet fuel card users. However, understanding the complete cost structure helps avoid surprises.
Fee Structure Analysis
RTS advertises their fuel cards as completely free, and this claim holds up under scrutiny:
- $0 annual fees – No yearly membership costs
- $0 setup fees – No initial activation charges
- $0 monthly fees – No recurring card fees
- $0 transaction fees – No per-purchase charges
The only potential cost comes from interest charges if you carry a balance. The self-funded card avoids this entirely since you’re using prepaid funds.
Interest Rates and Credit Terms
While RTS doesn’t publicly advertise interest rates, user reports suggest APRs between 18-24%. This aligns with typical business credit card rates.
The weekly credit line of $3,200 per truck resets each Monday. Payments are due within 7-10 days of purchase, depending on your agreement terms.
For context, using the full credit line weekly at 20% APR would cost approximately $35-50 in monthly interest. Most users pay balances quickly to avoid these charges.
Cost Comparison Table
Here’s how RTS stacks up against major competitors on pricing:
| Feature | RTS | Comdata | WEX | EFS |
| Setup Fee | $0 | $50 | $0 | $25 |
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $8/card | $2/card | $3/card |
| Transaction Fee | $0 | $0.10 | $0 | $0.15 |
| Annual Cost (5 cards) | $0 | $530 | $120 | $225 |
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Get RTS Fuel Cards?
RTS fuel cards work exceptionally well for specific trucking operations. Understanding the ideal use cases helps determine if they’re right for your business.
Ideal Candidates
Owner-Operators benefit most from RTS fuel cards. The zero-fee structure and solid discounts improve tight profit margins without adding overhead costs.
Small trucking companies with 1-10 trucks find the perfect balance of savings and simplicity. The straightforward platform doesn’t require extensive training or complex management systems.
Businesses already using RTS factoring should absolutely get the fuel card. The bundled savings and integrated platform create operational efficiencies beyond just fuel discounts.
Routes through Pilot Flying J corridors maximize savings potential. If your lanes regularly pass these locations, you’ll consistently access the best discounts.
When to Consider Alternatives?
Large fleets with 50+ trucks may need more sophisticated reporting and control features. Enterprise-level fuel card programs offer advanced analytics and tighter spending controls.
Companies needing extensive reporting should evaluate options carefully. While RTS provides basic reports, some competitors offer more detailed analytics and customization.
Routes outside the RTS network limit your savings potential. If you primarily operate in areas with sparse coverage, a card with broader acceptance makes more sense.
International operations require different solutions. RTS fuel cards only work within the United States, so cross-border operators need alternative options.
RTS Fuel Cards vs Top Competitors 2026
Understanding how RTS compares to other diesel fuel card options helps make an informed decision. Let’s examine key differences with major competitors.
RTS vs Comdata
Comdata offers the trucking industry’s largest acceptance network with over 15,000 locations. However, this broad coverage comes at a price – literally.
Network coverage favors Comdata, but RTS wins on value. Comdata charges $8 per card monthly plus a $50 setup fee, while RTS remains completely free.
Feature-wise, Comdata provides more advanced reporting and spending controls. Large fleets often prefer Comdata’s enterprise features despite higher costs.
RTS vs WEX Fleet Cards
WEX fleet cards work anywhere Visa is accepted, offering ultimate flexibility. This universal acceptance appeals to mixed fleets with diverse fueling needs.
RTS provides better truck-stop specific benefits. While WEX works everywhere, it lacks the deep discounts RTS offers at major truck stops.
The technology platforms differ significantly. WEX emphasizes broad compatibility, while RTS focuses on trucking-specific features like IFTA reporting.
RTS vs Mudflap
Mudflap represents the new generation of mobile fueling company solutions. Their app-based approach eliminates physical cards entirely.
Savings potential varies by location. Mudflap users report average savings of 59¢ per gallon, more than double RTS’s average, but at fewer locations (2,600+).
User experience differs dramatically. Mudflap’s purely digital approach appeals to tech-savvy operators, while RTS maintains traditional card functionality with digital enhancements.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | RTS | Comdata | WEX | Mudflap |
| Avg. Savings | 25¢/gal | 8-25¢/gal | 3-5¢/gal | 59¢/gal |
| Network Size | 3,000+ | 15,000+ | Universal | 2,600+ |
| Monthly Cost | $0 | $8/card | $2/card | $0 |
| Credit Line | $3,200/week | Varies | Varies | N/A |
| Physical Card | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Real User Experiences: What Truckers Say
Analyzing hundreds of reviews reveals consistent patterns in user satisfaction and concerns. Here’s what actual RTS fuel card users report.
Positive Feedback Analysis
The most common praise points focus on cost savings and ease of use. Users consistently mention:
Quick approval process – Most applications are approved within 24-48 hours, much faster than traditional fleet cards requiring extensive documentation.
Reliable discounts – The advertised 25¢ per gallon savings proves accurate at most locations. Some users report even higher discounts at featured stations.
Helpful customer service – Multiple reviews highlight knowledgeable support staff who understand trucking-specific needs and provide relevant solutions.
No hidden fees – Users appreciate the truly free structure after experiencing competitors’ numerous fees and charges.
Common Complaints and Issues
While generally positive, some recurring concerns deserve attention:
App performance varies by device and location. Android users report more frequent crashes than iOS users, particularly on older devices.
Limited network coverage frustrates drivers operating outside major corridors. Western states and rural areas have notably fewer participating locations.
Customer service hours (8 AM – 5 PM CT) don’t align with trucking schedules. Drivers needing weekend or overnight support must wait until business hours.
Discount variations between locations sometimes disappoint users expecting consistent savings everywhere.
Overall Satisfaction Ratings
RTS maintains strong ratings across multiple platforms:
- Google Reviews: 4.6/5 stars (1,700+ reviews)
- Trustpilot: 4.1/5 stars (666 reviews)
- App Store: 4.2/5 stars
- Google Play: 3.9/5 stars
These ratings place RTS above average for fuel card providers. Most negative reviews focus on technical issues rather than fundamental service problems.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started
Getting your RTS fuel card up and running takes minimal time and effort. Follow this proven process for the smoothest experience.
Application Process
Start your application at the RTS website or by calling their sales team. You’ll need:
Required Documents:
- Valid DOT number
- Federal Tax ID (EIN)
- Business bank account information
- Driver’s license for authorized users
The online application takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Phone applications may take longer but provide immediate answers to questions.
Credit checks apply only to the Fleet One and Mixed Fleet cards. The self-funded option requires no credit verification, making it accessible to new businesses.
First-Time Setup
After approval, you’ll receive cards within 5-7 business days. While waiting, download the RTS Pro app and create your account.
App Installation Steps:
- Download from App Store or Google Play
- Enter your account number and PIN
- Set up biometric login for security
- Enable location services for station finding
- Configure notification preferences
Card activation takes just minutes through the app or phone. Set spending alerts and review the nearest stations along your regular routes.
Maximizing Your Savings
Smart strategies can increase your savings beyond the standard discounts:
Route planning through the app identifies the cheapest stations along your path. Sometimes driving an extra 5 miles saves $20-30 on a fill-up.
Bundling with factoring provides the highest discounts. Even if you don’t need factoring immediately, consider it for the enhanced fuel savings.
Timing purchases at featured stations during promotional periods maximizes per-gallon savings. The app highlights these special offers.
Maintenance scheduling at network locations compounds savings. Combine fuel stops with service needs to maximize card benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others’ experiences helps you sidestep costly errors. Here are the most frequent mistakes new RTS fuel card users make.
Not checking network coverage before committing leads to frustration. Map your regular routes against RTS locations to ensure adequate coverage.
Ignoring the bundling discount opportunity costs thousands annually. Even small operators benefit from combining fuel cards with factoring services.
Failing to use the app for price comparison means missing the best deals. Stations just miles apart can have 15-20¢ price differences.
Not setting up fraud alerts leaves you vulnerable. Configure immediate notifications for all transactions to catch unauthorized use quickly.
Missing maintenance discount opportunities wastes money. Your card works for more than fuel – use it for all truck-related expenses at participating locations.
RTS Fuel Cards Alternatives Worth Considering
While RTS offers solid value, these alternatives might better suit specific needs:
TCS Fuel Card – Offers in-house financing and broader West Coast coverage
NASTC Fuel Card – Provides 40-50¢ savings at TA/Petro but with limited network
EFS Fuel Card – Better for large fleets needing advanced controls
Love’s RealAdvantage – Exclusive savings at Love’s Travel Stops
Multi Service Fuel Card – Good for regional operators in specific areas
Each alternative serves different operational needs. Evaluate based on your routes, fleet size, and management requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does RTS Fuel Card Require a Credit Check?
The Fleet One and Mixed Fleet cards require standard business credit checks. However, the Self-funded card requires no credit verification – you simply preload funds for use.
Can I Use RTS Fuel Cards at Loves Travel Stops?
No, RTS fuel cards don’t work at Love’s Travel Stops. The network focuses on Pilot Flying J and other partners. For Love’s access, consider their RealAdvantage card.
How Long Does RTS Fuel Card Approval Take?
Most applications receive decisions within 24-48 hours. Self-funded cards often approve faster since they skip credit checks. Have your documents ready to avoid delays.
What Happens If I Lose My RTS Fuel Card?
Immediately lock the card through the RTS Pro app or call customer service. Replacement cards arrive within 5-7 business days. The app allows continued invoice submission during this period.
Can I Get an RTS Fuel Card with Bad Credit?
Yes, through the Self-funded option. This prepaid card requires no credit check. Load funds from any debit or credit card and enjoy the same fuel discounts.
Is There a Minimum Fuel Purchase Requirement?
No minimum purchase requirements exist. Buy as little or as much fuel as needed. However, filling up maximizes your per-stop savings by reducing transaction frequency.
How Do I Cancel My RTS Fuel Card?
Contact customer service to close your account. Ensure all balances are paid first. The process typically takes 3-5 business days. No cancellation fees apply.
Conclusion
RTS fuel cards deliver solid value for owner operator fuel card needs and small trucking companies. The combination of 25¢ average per-gallon savings, zero fees, and useful management tools creates a compelling package.
The 3,000+ location network works well for operations centered around major trucking corridors. While not the largest network available, the quality of discounts at participating locations often outweighs the limited coverage.
For businesses already using or considering RTS factoring services, the fuel card becomes a no-brainer. The bundled savings and operational efficiencies justify any network limitations.
Take action today by evaluating your routes against RTS coverage. If you regularly fuel at Pilot Flying J or other network locations, applying for an RTS fuel card could save thousands annually.
For those needing broader coverage or advanced fleet management features, consider alternatives like Comdata or WEX. The key is matching the card’s strengths to your operational needs.