Originally published in On-Site, ARB’s Construction Industry newsletter.
Keeping construction vehicles and equipment fueled up has always been a challenge. Customarily, contractors transport vehicles and equipment to off-site fueling stations when needed. But this often interrupts work and consumes even more fuel in the process. One intriguing recent development is the rise of mobile field fueling.
On-site vs. mobile
Under the mobile field fueling model, fuel and other service fluids are delivered directly to jobsites. In one version, the construction business itself buys bulk diesel trucks or service vehicles to transport fuel.
The ownership cost for such vehicles, however, can be considerable. It includes the initial investment, wages for drivers with the proper licenses, maintenance and repairs, and insurance. Recently, less expensive trailer-mounted setups and medium-duty truck upfits have entered the market. The smaller trucks and tanks often don’t require additional driver certifications.
Another approach is to engage mobile fuel providers who use specialized trucks equipped with advanced delivery systems, such as pumps and metering devices, to deliver fuel to jobsites. Contractors can coordinate deliveries based on project timelines and expected fuel consumption.
But wait a minute, you might say, why bother with those approaches if we can just set up our own fuel tanks on remote or hard-to-reach jobsites? That remains an option. But on-site storage poses safety concerns. Your construction company must comply with stringent regulations to prevent fires, property damage, injuries and even fatalities.
Security is another issue. Fuel theft can happen when tanks are accessible and left unattended. Plus, the tanks themselves can be expensive to buy and maintain, not to mention difficult to move.
Potential benefits
When the service is well-coordinated and ably provided, mobile field fueling helps maintain operational continuity, enhancing overall efficiency. By planning deliveries around project needs and machine usage patterns, equipment stays running without unnecessary idle time waiting or traveling to refuel.
Another major benefit of mobile field fueling is long-term cost savings. Fuel deliveries are based on specific needs, which helps avoid over-buying and reduce waste. Security also is enhanced. When fuel is dispensed directly into equipment, there’s little opportunity for theft.
Mobile field fueling reduces carbon emissions, too. Eliminating trips to off-site fueling stations lowers a project’s carbon footprint, aiding compliance with green initiatives and environmental regulations.
Risks to manage
Naturally, mobile field fueling has its risks. Safety is a significant concern. When choosing a provider, ensure the company follows stringent protocols to comply with regulations and local guidelines. Vendors should be able to clearly describe their fuel delivery processes, including safety measures, as well as provide references.
Also, careful coordination is necessary to ensure fuel deliveries align with job schedules and don’t disrupt operations. Look for providers capable of drawing up responsive delivery plans that are adaptable to project changes and unexpected developments.
Finally, there’s the question of cost. A best practice is to conduct thorough cost-benefit analyses of using the traditional off-site fueling approach vs. acquiring your own equipment vs. mobile field fueling. With this necessary financial information in hand, you can make the best choice for your company.
Logistical convenience
It seems we live in a world where, in many places, virtually anything can be delivered. For construction businesses, this includes fuel — a logistical convenience well worth considering.
This publication is distributed with the understanding that the author, publisher and distributor are not rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice or opinions on specific facts or matters, and, accordingly, assume no liability whatsoever in connection with its use. ©2025
Construction and Real Estate Team Spotlight
Gisèle Couturier is a senior manager at ARB. She specializes in providing audit, accounting, compliance, and advisory services and primarily works with manufacturing companies, nonprofit organizations, credit unions, construction companies, and employee benefit plans.
