Fuel costs are a major concern for tradespeople across the North West. Whether you’re a joiner in Wigan, a plumber in Prescot, or a sparkie in Southport, rising fuel prices can hit hard. But with the right driving techniques and a few savvy habits, you can stretch every litre further and save money — without compromising on the job.
🚗 Drive Smoothly and Maintain Steady Speeds
Accelerating hard or braking suddenly guzzles fuel. Maintaining a steady speed and anticipating the road ahead will help you drive more efficiently. On motorways, using cruise control (where safe) can reduce fluctuations and improve fuel economy.
⚙️ Shift Gears at the Right Time
Changing up early can make a real difference. For most diesel vans, shifting gears before hitting 2,000 RPM helps reduce fuel consumption, while petrol vans should change at around 2,500 RPM. This small adjustment can lead to noticeable savings over time.
🛑 Avoid Excessive Idling
Leaving your van running while you’re loading, on the phone, or waiting outside a customer’s home burns unnecessary fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn the engine off — and better for the environment too.
🧰 Travel Light
Carrying tools you don’t need? A heavier load means your van has to work harder, especially on urban routes. Make a habit of decluttering weekly to remove unused kit and materials. Your suspension — and your fuel tank — will thank you!
🌬️ Be Smart with Air Con
Using air conditioning at low speeds can drain fuel fast. At slower speeds, consider opening your windows instead. On the motorway, however, it’s usually more efficient to keep the windows up and use the air con, as open windows create drag.
🔧 Keep Your Van in Tip-Top Shape
Well-maintained vans run more efficiently. That means regular servicing, clean air filters, and properly inflated tyres. Under-inflated tyres alone can lower mileage by 3% or more. You can find valuable maintenance advice in our Spring Van Maintenance Tips article.
🗺️ Plan Smarter Routes
Getting stuck in traffic or taking the long way around wastes time and fuel. Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to avoid delays and reduce unnecessary mileage. You’ll arrive quicker, calmer, and with more fuel in the tank.
Conclusion
💡 Small changes can make a big impact. By adopting these efficient driving practices and keeping your van in peak condition, you’ll spend less at the pump and more time focused on growing your business. Looking for a van that won’t break the bank on fuel?
👉 Explore our range of fuel-efficient vans today — including models like the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro which are firm favourites with North West tradespeople.