C.H. Robinson is rolling out temporary cost relief measures as diesel prices climb, offering both fuel discounts and improved access to cash for carriers moving freight across its network.
Based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, the company announced it will provide free discount fuel cards and no-fee cash advances for fuel purchases following a sharp increase in diesel prices tied to a new conflict in the Middle East.
Fuel remains one of the largest ongoing expenses in trucking, often taking up a significant share of operating costs.
“Fuel is the biggest expense for a carrier, typically running 20% and as much as 28% of the cost of operating a truck,” said Michael Castagnetto, president of North American surface transportation, C.H. Robinson. “With the largest network of carriers in North America, we want to help them get through this unexpected financial strain. Today’s environment is especially challenging for the nearly 60% of carriers that are owner-operators. These small businesses carry a huge amount of the goods that come to everybody’s stores, offices, factories, and homes.”
Fuel Card Savings and Application Details
According to the company, the C.H. Robinson Fuel Card provides access to discounts at thousands of truck stops across the United States.
Savings can reach up to $385 on a single fill-up and as much as $9,000 annually per truck, depending on usage.
Carriers can apply online in minutes, with most approvals taking three to five business days. The application fee is being waived for those who apply during April and May.
Cash Advances Available on the Road
In addition to fuel savings, the company is also expanding access to working capital while loads are in transit.
“C.H. Robinson is one of the few logistics providers that also offers a cash advance for carriers to help them cover expenses while they’re still on the road,” the release said. “After picking up a load, carriers can receive up to 60% of their pay. The fee will be waived for advances requested on the C.H. Robinson Fuel Card in April and May.”
Cash advances can be requested in seconds through the Navisphere Carrier app or website. To qualify for the waived fee, the advance must be loaded directly onto the fuel card.
Both current carriers and those new to the company’s network are eligible to participate.
Access for New Carriers
C.H. Robinson also noted that carriers not currently working with the company can sign up to gain access to available freight and support tools.
“Carriers not already hauling for C.H. Robinson can sign up here to get access to the most loads in North America, the C.H. Robinson Fuel Card, fast payment options, and easy-to-use technology to keep their business running smoothly,” the company said.
