Fuel is the lifeblood of the UK economy, and at any given time, there could be millions of litres of it moving around the country – diesel, LPG and petroleum included. Transporting and handling such a valuable and crucial product is an industry in itself, but it’s not one without challenges.

Security and safety are two primary concerns, for example – suppliers must ensure their product gets to the right places as intended, with no danger to employees or the public. Another major concern is the risk of contamination, with the mixing of fuels – however slight – bearing costly consequences.

The problem of contamination

Contamination on a consumer level is a major and often expensive inconvenience – people put 60 litres of the wrong fuel in their vehicle, only to experience a major break-down and big repair bill shortly after. On an industrial scale, however, the issue is much bigger.

Large tankers can carry as much as 35,000 litres of fuel at one time, so when contents become contaminated by other fuels, however it happens, the consequences are usually devastating.

The cost of removing and disposing of contaminated fuel must also be considered – it’s no easy feat, and will likely take time that few businesses can afford.

Customs considerations

From a government perspective, contamination is a major concern when it comes to shipping fuel and the taxes that go with it. Customs officials must have access to clear evidence of a product’s integrity – i.e. records that prove its purity. This kind of information can be recorded and provided on paper, but such an approach is time-consuming and prone to error.

Poorly kept records don’t just cause inconvenience, either – missing or inaccurate paperwork can lead to heavy fines and even personal convictions, which in turn can have a significant negative impact on your business. They could dent the company’s finances and cause real reputational damage.

Thankfully, these are issues that can be avoided with the help of technology.

In the past, the fuel industry – like most others - will have relied on pens, papers and human minds to keep track of fuel transportation. Or basic technologies at most.

The TouchStar EPOD system by comparison collates all relevant stock movements in an end-of-shift report, which is accessible at the click of a button. This saves time and gives customs officials – and other partners - reassurance that you are in control of your business.

The data generated by fuel POD systems can help businesses to keep accurate stock records at all times, while also providing an opportunity to optimise logistical processes. With everything moving much more quickly, there are new opportunities to boost revenues.

Fuelled by technology

Fuel transportation has long been a complex job, with many hazards to consider – contamination being a prime example. Technology is helping to change that, however, with fuel POD systems in particular giving businesses the peace of mind to deliver and move fuel safely, effectively and efficiently, while also giving others more confidence in your business.

Although sophisticated in technology terms, these solutions are simple to use and can benefit businesses in various industries, from retail and gas supply right through to aviation and the public sector. For those working in these areas, the benefits on offer are too great to ignore.

If you think Fuel Pod could help your business, get in touch with us today to find out more.