Hot Roads, Cool Heads: Summer Safety and Savings Tips for Trucking Companies

High double-digit and triple-digit temperatures are tough on drivers and brutal on budgets too. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioning can reduce fuel economy by up to 25% during extreme heat. As it gets hotter in throughout the summer, it’s the perfect time for fleets to double down on smart safety habits and fuel-saving strategies that keep rigs rolling and costs in check.

Here are some tips to stay ahead of summer’s biggest operational pitfalls.

1. Don’t Let Idling Burn a Hole in Your Fuel Budget
   The Environmental Protection Agency shares that idling in hot weather can waste up to a gallon of fuel per hour. Encourage drivers to park in shaded areas when available and to limit idle time when making deliveries or waiting at yards. Equip trucks with auxiliary power units (APUs) or bunk coolers to reduce main engine run time while still keeping drivers comfortable. Even something as simple as using sunshades and cracking windows can keep interiors cooler and reduce the need for prolonged engine idling.
2. Tame Your A/C Use Without Compromising Comfort
   A/C systems pull extra load from the engine, especially in older trucks or those hauling heavy. Make sure your fleet is using fresh cabin air filters and that the refrigerant levels are properly maintained. Encourage drivers to cool the cab while driving rather than during idle. Consider using lower fan settings when possible. It’s also worth checking for coolant and refrigerant leaks that reduce efficiency but quietly drain fuel.
3. Avoid Hot-Weather Inspection Fails
   Summer inspections spike, so that means there’s a higher chance of finding violations. Common red flags include overheated brake systems, worn tires, and under-lubricated parts. Remind drivers to check tire pressure daily since hot asphalt expands air volume and can lead to blowouts. Also, make sure they’re watching coolant levels and fan belts, since both can crack or fail faster in hotter temperatures.
4. Keep Mental Fatigue in Check
   Heat doesn’t just stress engines, it also wears down drivers. Studies show that even moderate dehydration or prolonged exposure to heat can reduce reaction times and focus behind the wheel. Make hydration mandatory, encourage sunglasses and sunscreen use, and stress the importance of scheduled breaks during the hottest parts of the day. A well-rested, heat-aware driver is a safer one.
5. Don’t Let DPFs Clog Your Day
   Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) are vulnerable during hot, high-idle conditions. Clogged DPFs increase backpressure, fuel consumption, and downtime. Monitor for engine warning lights and use DPF cleaning services regularly to prevent costly repairs. Trucks that idle often, especially at loading docks or rest areas, need more frequent maintenance schedules during the summer.
6. Save More with the Energie Fuel Card
   While heat drives fuel prices up, your operating costs don’t have to follow. The Energie Fuel Card gives fleets access to lower negotiated fuel rates across our extensive cardlock and retail network of over 60,000 accepting stations nationwide through the Commercial Fueling Network (CFN), plus real-time controls on gallons pumped, security features, and detailed reporting. With tools built to manage costs in every season, it’s the easiest way to put cash back in your tank.

Summer’s not slowing down, and neither should your fleet. Stay safe, stay cool, and make smart choices that stretch every dollar. Want to learn more about how the Energie Fuel Card can reduce costs for your drivers this season? Let’s talk.