Managing fuel expenses is one of the biggest challenges for businesses that rely on vehicles to operate. Whether you're a small business owner with a few delivery vans or a large enterprise managing a nationwide fleet, having the right tools to monitor and control fuel costs can make a significant difference. One such tool is the Esso fuel card, designed to simplify fuel management, offer savings, and give you more control over your company’s fuel usage.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to apply for the Esso fuel card, including its benefits, how to apply, and what to expect after you submit your application.
Step 1: Understand the Esso Fuel Card Options
Esso offers two main types of fuel cards under the Esso and Mobil Business Card Program, both powered by WEX, a leader in payment processing:
Esso™ and Mobil™ Business Card: Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with fewer than 10 vehicles. This card offers simple fuel savings, purchase tracking, and essential controls for small fleets.
Esso™ and Mobil™ Premier Plus Business Card: Tailored for larger businesses and fleets with 10 or more vehicles. It includes enhanced purchase controls, detailed reporting, and flexible payment options to suit bigger operations.
Both cards are accepted at over 2,000 Esso and Mobil stations across Canada, giving you nationwide coverage and peace of mind.
Step 2: Review the Benefits
Before applying, it's important to know why the Esso fuel card is a smart investment for your business:
Fuel Discounts
You can save on every litre of fuel your vehicles consume. Esso provides competitive volume-based rebates that increase as your fleet usage grows—helping your business save more with every kilometer.
Purchase Controls
Set spending limits, control fuel types, and restrict non-fuel purchases. These controls allow you to prevent unauthorized spending and keep your budget in check.
Convenience
Forget keeping paper receipts. Every transaction is automatically tracked and available in your online dashboard, giving you instant access to fuel purchase data.
Advanced Reporting
The Esso fuel card includes easy-to-read reports that help you understand driver behaviour, track usage patterns, and identify areas for cost reduction.
Fraud Protection
Security features such as driver PINs and real-time alerts help prevent fraud and ensure your cards are only used for approved transactions.
Step 3: Prepare Your Business Information
Before you begin your application, gather the following information:
Legal business name and structure
Business address and phone number
Type of business and years in operation
Number of vehicles in your fleet
Estimated monthly fuel consumption
Contact person details (name, title, and email)
Banking or credit information for account setup
Having these details ready will speed up the application process and reduce back-and-forth communications.
Step 4: Apply Online
Visit the official Esso Business Cards website. Choose the card that best fits your fleet’s size and operational needs.
Click on "Apply Now" and you'll be directed to a secure online form powered by WEX. This is where you'll enter the business and financial details you prepared earlier.
The application is user-friendly and typically takes less than 10 minutes to complete.
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval
Once you submit your application, the review process usually takes 3–5 business days. In some cases, a WEX representative may reach out for clarification or additional documentation, such as a business license or proof of fleet size.
If your application is approved, your Esso fuel card will be printed and mailed within 7–10 days. Expedited shipping may be available upon request, which is especially useful if you need to get your team started quickly.
Step 6: Activate and Distribute Your Cards
When your cards arrive, they will include instructions for activation. You can activate your cards online or over the phone. Once activated, assign cards to drivers or vehicles according to your internal policy.
Each card can be set up with a unique PIN, ensuring that only authorized employees are able to make purchases.
Step 7: Use the Online Portal for Ongoing Management
One of the biggest advantages of using an Esso fuel card is access to a powerful online account management portal. From here, you can:
Monitor transactions in real time
View, download, or schedule reports
Modify spending limits or restrict certain purchases
Pay your balance and manage billing
You can even manage cards via the WEX mobile app, which adds extra flexibility when you’re on the go.
Step 8: Maximize the Value of Your Card
Once you’re up and running with the Esso fuel card, make sure to periodically review your fuel usage reports. Look for patterns that can help you optimize routes, spot fuel inefficiencies, or identify unusual spending.
If your business grows or your needs change, you can easily upgrade to the Premier Plus card or request additional cards.
Regularly revisiting your account settings and purchase controls can also ensure your card continues to serve your business efficiently.
Applying for an Esso fuel card is a strategic decision for any business that relies on vehicles. From fuel savings to tighter control over spending, the card provides a range of benefits that go beyond just convenience. With a simple application process and powerful management tools, the Esso fuel card is an excellent investment in your business's efficiency and financial health.