We hear this question a lot and thought it might be beneficial to have the discussion in this forum. 

When we do hear this question, the first thing we ask people is:  What is your goal?  Do you want to have smaller fuel costs now or do you want to have a smaller tax bill at the end of the quarter?   

You see, you are going to pay taxes now or later.  Fuel may be 20 cents less in Missouri than in Illinois, but if you are traveling a bulk of your miles in Illinois, you will owe taxes on those miles later at the higher rate because you have bought your fuel at a lower tax rate. 

Beyond that, it would require a lot more work, but is totally manageable.  If you have a fuel card and an internet connection in your truck, contact your fuel card provider and ask if they have a program giving live updates on fuel prices.  This will allow you to know what the fuel prices are at upcoming fuel stops.  Once you know that, you can adjust for the tax paid, and at that point, you would have a true idea of which fuel is truly “cheaper”

Hope this session has been helpful for you.  If you have any questions, as always feel free to contact us at 515-210-0245.  Saving money is a big truckin deal!!