NCJ Number
225170
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 35 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 66-69
Date Published
November 2008
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the benefits of using fleet cards for fuel purchases.
Abstract
A comprehensive fleet purchasing card program will save users a significant amount of time and money and the benefits are often realized immediately, and it is also a valuable tool for measuring and evaluating fuel and maintenance purchase patterns and provides a proactive approach to accounting for every dollar. The author notes that the largest variable cost for law enforcement is typically the fuel that powers their vehicles, and unpredictable fuel prices have further compounded already stretched budgets. In addition to tracking basic transaction detail, other topics are briefly discussed that are cited by the author as advantages in the use of fleet cards, such as strategic data collection, cost reductions and maintenance monitoring. Tips for selecting a card program are also included. While there are several benefits to adopting a fleet card system, choosing a card with the purchasing features, controls and reporting that best fits a department's specific needs will determine the program's success.