5 Best Practices to Implement Fuel Recovery in Europe

Developing a robust transport energy management program can be complex, especially with transport and fuel combined into an “all-in” rate. By separating fuel from transport costs, shippers can achieve greater transparency in their reimbursement to transport partners. European Fuel Recovery has become an increasingly favored strategy to improve transparency, reduce risk, and achieve cost savings.

This guide outlines actionable steps to ensure a smooth and successful Fuel Recovery implementation within your organization. 

5 best practices to implement Fuel Recovery

1.Understand your network 

Start by assessing the scope of your operations. 

• Where do you primarily conduct business (regional vs. long-haul)? 
• How many transport partners do you work with? 
• What geographies and types of transport modes are included in your network? 

Having a strong understanding of your network structure is essential for a smooth implementation process and clear visibility into the potential opportunity. By having insight into how your network operates, you create a solid foundation for a program that drives measurable impact and aligns with your specific operational needs. 

2. Collaborate with a strategic transport partner to make the transition 

Partnering with a trusted transportation leader enables a strategic approach to implementing your new fuel program. They can help align stakeholders through effective change management discussions, streamlining the process and accelerating your transition. Leverage this expertise to guide decision-making and address any hurdles along the way.

3. Approach the bid process strategically 

Clearly communicate that separating fuel from freight is a non-negotiable requirement for the bid. By establishing this expectation upfront, you increase acceptance among transport partners and signal firm commitment to improving network transparency and efficiency. Transport partners are eager to compete for your business, remember, you determine the requirements for your network.

4. Turn resistance into collaboration 

Pushback from transport partners is common and often stems from uncertainty. Breakthrough supports shippers throughout the entire process, and providing educational content for transport contracts is a key area of focus.  Bring us into conversations to address concerns with clarity and data-driven insights.

5. Commit to long-term success

Regularly analyze your transport energy management program to ensure it evolves with your needs and the market. By requesting a vehicle benchmark analysis, you can align your program to the fuel efficiencies of your transport partners. This will allow you to unlock ongoing savings opportunities and ensure your program delivers value year after year. 

Breakthrough's end-to-end Fuel Recovery support

Breakthrough collaborates closely with shippers to streamline the Fuel Recovery implementation and maximize its impact. Our team brings extensive experience in incorporating Fuel Recovery into the networks of industry-leading shippers. In addition to implementation, we have a dedicated support team that meets regularly with your team to address questions and keep you updated on market trends and opportunities to further optimize your network. 

• Change Management: We provide expert support through the entire implementation process, providing advice at every step. 

• Transport Partner Training: We offer comprehensive education on the transparency of the program and onboarding for transport partners to ensure alignment with the new process. 

• Fuel Estimate Support: We provide accurate fuel amounts to transport partners to help them plan. 

• Ongoing Opportunity Analysis: We meet regularly to share new savings opportunities as your Fuel Recovery program matures. 

Unlock transparent transport reimbursements

Implementing Europe Fuel Recovery offers you transparency, efficiency, and cost savings. While uncertainty may persist, adopting best practices and partnering with industry experts like Breakthrough can make the transition smoother. By committing to a data-driven approach and addressing resistance with collaboration, your organization can unlock both immediate and long-term value. 

Contact the Breakthrough team to take the next step in your Fuel Recovery implementation.