Shell is our top pick for small business fleets on our list of the best fleet fuel cards, thanks to its simple rebate structure, flexible coverage, and EV-forward features. In 2025, Shell streamlined its offering down to two cards: Shell Card Business (for Shell-only fueling) and Shell Card Business Flex™ (for broader acceptance at 95% of U.S. stations). Both support public EV charging and deliver cents-per-gallon savings with the reliability of WEX Bank as the issuer.
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At FreightWaves Checkpoint, our goal is to give readers clear, data-backed insights into the tools and services that keep the trucking industry moving, including fuel cards.
We reviewed dozens of fuel card providers across the U.S., assessing key factors like average fuel discounts, network coverage, fees, security features, and account management tools. We also analyzed real-world driver and fleet feedback to understand how these cards perform on the road — from customer service responsiveness to ease of use and fraud protection.
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Shell Fleet Cards At a Glance
- Simple, SMB-friendly pricing: Cents-per-gallon rebates (typically up to $.06/gal) and no setup or annual fees make Shell’s cards approachable for smaller fleets.
- Two-card lineup for broad or Shell-only coverage: Choose between Shell-only acceptance or Flex™ for near-universal fueling (95% of U.S. stations) with controls intact.
- EV charging and digital tools: Both cards support public EV charging, mobile payments, and easy tracking via the Shell Fleet Hub portal and mobile app.
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Shell Pros & Cons
Pros
- Published rebates at Shell stations (up to $.06 per gallon) with simple tiered pricing
- EV integration for mixed ICE/EV fleets
- Extra $.03–$.05 off per gallon at designated “rebate bonus” locations
Cons
- Shell-only rebates
- Added fees on Flex card
Shell Fuel Card Costs
Shell publishes straightforward fees for the Flex card and focuses more on rebate tiers for the Shell Card Business option. The table below summarizes what’s known, but always ask for a complete written fee table to confirm monthly, setup, and network charges.
| Card Option | Setup Fee | Monthly Fee | Per-Transaction Fees | Rebates / Discounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shell Card Business | $0 | Varies (request in writing) | Not published | Up to $.06/gal (Shell stations) |
| Shell Card Business Flex™ | $40 | $2 per card | $1.25 per truck-stop transaction • Up to $1 out-of-network | Up to $.05/gal at Shell + $.03–$.05/gal at bonus sites |
How Much Fuel You Need to Break Even
Shell Flex’s monthly $2 per-card fee is easy to offset if drivers fuel consistently at Shell or bonus sites.
Use these quick thresholds to estimate how much fuel you’ll need to break even each month:
- At $.01/gal: 200 gallons per month
- At $.03/gal: 67 gallons per month
- At $.05/gal: 40 gallons per month
- At $.08–$.10/gal (Shell + bonus): 20–25 gallons per month
Shell Card Options
- Shell Card Business: Works at 12,000+ Shell stations. Offers up to $.06 per gallon in rebates, with simple tiering and no setup fee.
- Shell Card Business Flex™: Works at roughly 95% of U.S. stations via the WEX network. Provides rebates of up to $.05 per gallon at Shell stations, plus $.03–$.05 per gallon at select “bonus” sites. Includes integrated EV charging on the same statement.
Shell Card Features
- Bonus rebate network: Flex users can earn an extra $.03–$.05 per gallon at select Shell “bonus” sites shown in the DriverDash app and Shell locator.
- EV charging integration: Public charging is supported at major networks like Shell Recharge, ChargePoint, EVgo, and Blink. Fuel and charging charges appear on the same statement.
- DriverDash mobile pay: Drivers can pay from their cabs using mobile devices, access e-receipts, and use biometric authentication. The app also helps locate nearby Shell and bonus stations.
- Controls and reporting: Real-time spend limits, PINs, and product/time/location restrictions are available through Fleet Hub and DriverDash. Managers can download detailed transaction reports by driver or card.
Should You Use Shell Cards?
Shell fleet cards work best for businesses that already fuel at Shell stations or want to simplify expense management with predictable, easy-to-track rebates. The Business card suits Shell-heavy routes, while Flex is ideal for fleets that mix routes, vehicle types, or use public EV charging.
Here's a look at the types of fleets that might find Shell fuel cards the right fit:
- Shell-heavy local and regional fleets: Shell Card Business delivers the highest rebates and simple administration when your drivers routinely pass Shell stations.
- Mixed-energy or mixed-route fleets: Shell Card Business Flex™ offers near-universal acceptance plus EV charging support, with Shell-only rebates that reward fueling within the brand where possible.
- Fleets with fuel stops near bonus sites: Flex also adds 3–5¢/gal in extra savings at designated “rebate bonus” locations marked in DriverDash and the Shell locator—ideal if your routes align to those stations.
Things to Do Before You Sign Up
- Map your fueling routes. Use Shell’s locator and DriverDash filters to confirm Shell coverage and find nearby “bonus” sites that offer extra rebates.
- Get every fee in writing. Request detailed documentation for all setup, monthly, and transaction fees, plus any late or returned-payment charges.
- Verify EV coverage. If you run electric vehicles, make sure your regular charging networks (e.g., EVgo or Blink) are supported in your regions.
- Compare acceptance options. Decide if the Flex card’s small monthly fee is worth the broader acceptance compared to the Shell-only Business card.
- Estimate your monthly fuel volume. Calculate whether your expected rebates offset the monthly per-card cost, especially for smaller fleets.
FAQ
Which Shell card makes the most sense for small businesses?
Most small fleets start with the Shell Card Business option because it has no setup fee and offers the highest Shell rebates. If your drivers need more flexibility, the Flex™ card expands coverage to nearly all U.S. stations while keeping management tools and reporting consistent.
Can Shell fleet cards help improve cash flow for small companies?
Yes. Both cards run through WEX Bank, giving small businesses access to structured billing cycles and consolidated invoices. This makes it easier to predict fuel costs, streamline reimbursements, and manage multiple drivers without upfront fuel expenses.
Do Shell cards offer tools to help small fleets control spending?
Yes. Shell Fleet Hub lets owners set per-card limits, require PINs, restrict purchases by product or time, and track line-item data in real time. These controls help prevent misuse and make every gallon easier to account for — especially in smaller fleets with tight margins.
How quickly do rebates apply?
Rebates post to your statement as credits after timely payment, rather than appearing at the pump. They’re site-based and depend on your monthly volume.
Does Shell offer maintenance or partner discounts?
Yes. Both programs include Jiffy Lube discounts and access to partner offers through WEX and Shell’s business network.
