By: Rich Taute

In the pursuit of efficiency, security and reliability, companies in the transportation industry are constantly exploring and experimenting with technologies that streamline operations, protect their assets and improve driver experience.

And, when it comes to streamlining the business without sacrificing security, two technologies often come into focus: radio frequency identification (RFID) and geofencing. While both offer unique advantages to carriers and drivers alike, RFID stands out as a superior solution for secure and efficient fueling. Here’s why.

What Is Geofencing?

Geofencing creates virtual geographic boundaries using GPS or cellular data. When a user enters or exits this designated area, the system triggers a specific action or alert. This is a very common practice in marketing. For example, have you ever received a push notification advertising a caramel macchiato when you were within a few hundred feet of a Starbucks? That’s geofencing at work.

This technology has many practical applications in the trucking industry:

• Fleet Management: Monitoring truck routes and ensuring drivers remain within designated zones.
• Delivery Verification: Automating arrival and departure notifications at warehouses or customer locations.
• Theft Prevention: Alerting managers if a vehicle or trailer leaves its assigned area without authorization.
• Driver Efficiency: Providing real-time updates on rest stops, fueling stations or restricted zones.

While geofencing offers flexibility and convenience, it relies heavily on external factors like GPS connectivity and network stability. These dependencies can lead to data inaccuracy or service disruptions, especially in remote areas.

What Sets RFID Apart?

RFID uses radio waves to identify and authenticate objects equipped with an RFID tag. In the transportation industry, RFID is often employed to manage access, track assets and verify transactions. Unlike geofencing, RFID requires direct communication between an RFID reader and the tag, which offers unparalleled precision and reliability.

Here are the key characteristics of RFID technology:

• Accuracy and Precision: RFID provides exact identification and verification of vehicles or equipment, ensuring that only authorized entities can complete transactions or access restricted areas. This precision eliminates the guesswork often associated with broader location-based technologies.
• Network Independence: RFID systems function independently of GPS or cellular networks, making them highly reliable even in remote or low-connectivity areas. This ensures consistent performance where other technologies might struggle.
• Security by Design: By pairing hardware-based identification with encryption and authentication protocols, RFID offers robust protection against fraud. Transactions can be tied to specific vehicles or users, reducing risks like unauthorized access or mischarges.
• Efficiency in Operations: RFID’s ability to instantly verify credentials and automate processes makes it a valuable tool for tasks requiring speed and accuracy, such as fueling or access control.

The Case for Fueling with SmartQ RFID

While geofencing plays an important role in route monitoring and theft prevention, it lacks the specificity and security required for fueling operations. This is where SmartQ RFID shines, combining precision, reliability and robust fraud prevention to create a frictionless and secure fueling experience.

Choosing SmartQ RFID helps businesses:

• Reduce fuel fraud and unauthorized transactions.
• Streamline operations with faster, error-free fueling.
• Gain peace of mind with secure and compliant fuel management.

Schedule a consultation to discover how SmartQ RFID can revolutionize your fleet operations.

Robust fuel card will provide Transcap freight factoring customers with industry-leading security and valuable discounts.

PCS Software, a leader in transportation management solutions, is excited to announce new and enhanced integrations within its Transportation Management System (TMS) as part of its ongoing commitment to providing a single, comprehensive view of operations for customers. These integrations are designed to centralize operational insights, streamline workflows, and empower trucking companies to make data-driven decisions more easily.

The latest integrations include RMIS by Truckstop for Carrier Onboarding, QuikQ for Fuel Management, and an enhanced DAT integration that allows customers to post available trucks and search for DAT rates directly from within the PCS TMS. Together, these integrations offer PCS users greater visibility and control over core functions, from compliance and security to rate management and load posting.

Advanced Fuel Management with QuikQ

QuikQ's integration adds a new layer of efficiency to fuel management. Our customers can easily import fuel purchases with a click, saving time on data entry and gaining clearer insights into fuel expenses. QuikQ's RFID technology further enhances security, allowing drivers to refuel only when their truck is nearby, effectively minimizing the risk of unauthorized transactions.

"We are thrilled to partner with PCS Software to bring QuikQ's fuel management capabilities to a broader audience in transportation," said Rich Taute, Vice President of Sales at QuikQ. "Our technology aligns well with PCS's focus on efficiency and operational control, helping carriers manage fuel expenses with greater security and convenience."

About PCS Software

PCS Software is a leading provider of transportation management solutions, dedicated to empowering transportation and logistics companies to streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and maximize profitability. With a suite of advanced software tools, PCS supports shippers and carriers in managing their end-to-end transportation processes, from planning and execution to compliance and analytics. Committed to innovation and customer success, PCS continually enhances its product offerings to address the evolving needs of the industry. To learn more about PCS Software, visit www.pcssoft.com.

Read full press release here.

Apex Transit Streamlines Fuel Management and Boosts Security with QuikQ’s SmartQ RFID

Apex Transit & Logistics has built a reputation for reliability and customer focus since its inception in 2012. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Apex is a small, family-owned company operated and managed by a husband-and-wife team, Stan and Marina. Together, they bring extensive experience and a wealth of knowledge to their clients and the logistics industry.

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Robust fuel card will provide Transcap freight factoring customers with industry-leading security and valuable discounts.

FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE, Aug. 5, 2024—QuikQ, a trusted provider of innovative and secure fuel payment, corporate payment and fraud prevention solutions, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Transcap, a leading provider of fast and reliable factoring solutions for the trucking industry, to give drivers access to the benefits of QuikQ fuel cards.

The co-branded fuel card will enable Transcap freight factoring customers to take advantage of the extensive QuikQ fueling network, as well as exclusive fuel discounts. But QuikQ fuel cards go beyond simply paying for fuel—they equip businesses with powerful tools for managing their fleet. Features like complete purchase control and real-time reporting help fleets optimize their fuel spend and streamline compliance.

Additionally, QuikQ prioritizes security with features like Secure Swipe, an innovative solution that utilizes SMS messaging for real-time transaction verification. This ensures the driver is physically present with their QuikQ card during each purchase, adding a crucial layer of protection against fraud.

QuikQ offers a comprehensive suite of secure payment solutions designed to enhance operations and empower businesses within the transportation industry. Rich Taute, QuikQ’s vice president of sales, said QuikQ’s focus on innovation and security makes them a trusted partner for leading companies like Transcap.

“We are excited to partner with a reputable and customer-centric company like Transcap,” said Taute. “This partnership allows us to expand our reach within the trucking industry and provide Transcap customers with the security, convenience and cost savings they deserve.”

Transcap was founded to give trucking companies of all sizes the fast, easy cash flow they need to succeed. Their diverse suite of factoring programs and financing solutions caters to the unique needs of each business. The company also supports warehousing, logistics and intermodal to make sure every link in the supply chain has the necessary funding.

Bonnie Castillo, President at Transcap, said she is thrilled to partner with QuikQ to offer such a valuable fuel card.

“This co-branded fuel card is a game-changer for our customers,” said Castillo. “They'll enjoy unmatched savings at the pump, the convenience of a vast fueling network, and the peace of mind that comes with industry-leading security. It's a win-win for everyone involved."

Relationship expands QuikQ’s fueling network, enhances convenience for drivers.

FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE, July 22, 2024—QuikQ, a trusted provider of innovative and secure fuel payment, corporate payment and fraud prevention solutions, today announced that its fuel cards are now accepted at 381 Circle K locations truck-accessible sites nationwide. This expansion significantly increases QuikQ's fueling network and provides carriers with even greater convenience and flexibility.

Launched in 2009 with a vision to revolutionize business practices within the transportation industry, QuikQ prioritizes efficiency, affordability and a customer-centric approach. They offer a comprehensive suite of solutions including fuel cards, corporate payment solutions and fraud prevention tools.

QuikQ’s fuel cards are designed to empower businesses with features like complete purchase control, real-time reporting and comprehensive compliance support. Additionally, QuikQ prioritizes security with features like Secure Swipe, part of its Q-Secure suite of fraud prevention solutions. Secure Swipe utilizes SMS messaging to provide real-time authentication for fuel transaction purchases. This added layer of security ensures the driver is physically present with their QuikQ fuel card during each purchase.

Circle K, established in Texas in 1951 and acquired by Alimentation Couche-Tard in 2003, is a global leader in convenience and mobility, with stores in 31 countries and territories.

“We are pleased to team up with QuikQ and accept their fuel cards at hundreds of our Circle K locations across the U.S. that can accommodate trucks,” said Reno Øhlenschlæger, Vice President of Global B2B Mobility and Sales at Circle K. “We are always looking for ways to make life a little easier for our commercial customers and look forward to delivering a great experience for QuikQ cardholders, both at our pumps and with fast, friendly service in our stores.”

“Expanding our network to include 381 Circle K locations is a significant win for QuikQ cardholders,” said Rich Taute, vice president of sales at QuikQ. “Circle K’s widespread presence and reputation for excellent customer service make them a perfect partner. Now, drivers can enjoy the ease of finding a Circle K virtually anywhere, while also benefiting from the security and control features built into their QuikQ fuel cards.”

The program provides carriers unparalleled protection against fuel fraud.

QuikQ, a trusted provider of innovative and secure fuel payment, corporate payment and fraud prevention solutions, today announced the launch of its Fuel Fraud Protection Program for SmartQ RFID, its innovative contactless fuel payment system.

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BD Transportation, Inc. Transforms Operations with SmartQ RFID

Based in Piqua, Ohio, BD Transportation, Inc., is a SmartWay Certified, family-owned business known for its reliability and dedication to forming long-term partnerships with both customers and employees. Facing the challenges of traditional fuel payment methods, BD Transportation sought a solution that could streamline their operations, enhance security, and improve the driver experience. Their quest led them to QuikQ in October 2022, marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership.

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QuikQ fuel card now accepted at nearly 30 Cash Magic locations across Louisiana.

QuikQ, a trusted provider of innovative and secure fuel payment, corporate payment and fraud prevention solutions, proudly announces that Cash Magic Truck Plaza & Casino, a leading provider of services across Louisiana, is now accepting the QuikQ fuel card at all of their locations. This partnership brings enhanced convenience and security to drivers navigating the bustling routes of Louisiana.

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By: Thomas Wasson
Article originally appeared in FreightWaves.

Fuel fraud is a growing problem impacting the bottom line for fleets of all sizes. But Vice President of Sales Rich Taute at QuikQ, says RFID technology and multifactor authentication are expanding the way fleets can proactively combat these fraudulent transactions. 

Taute began his career back in 1995 running truck stops then moved on to selling fuel directly to fleets that used fuel discount programs. He then spent 10 years at EFS managing fuel payments before becoming a vice president of national accounts. 

He explains that QuikQ’s payment platform runs on a QuikQ rail that connects directly with the truck stop and authorizes the transaction between fleet and truck stop via a credit line or direct bill. A payment rail is the infrastructure that moves money from one party to another. It can be in the form of ACH, or wire transfers, or it can be initiated by RFID technology or fuel cards, which QuikQ specializes in. QuikQ’s RFID technology begins with a sticker slightly larger than a credit card that is applied on the inside of a tractor’s windshield. The RFID technology QuikQ uses is currently deployed at Love’s and TA/Petro locations. 

For Taute, the added security of RFID technology remains unparalleled when combating fuel fraud and card skimming. Fuel fraud is significantly impacting carriers, he adds, noting the average fraudulent transaction can be $650 to $1,000. Fraud remains prevalent but is often an underreported risk. Taute recently conducted a LinkedIn poll in which 17% of respondents said they had experienced fuel fraud, 33% were not aware of fraud but hadn’t experienced it, and 50% of respondents had no idea fuel fraud was out there. This turns fuel fraud into an issue where “So for most fleets, it’s not a problem until it’s a problem, and [that’s] really what the marketplace is all about right now.”

For carriers that are victims of fraud, finding a resolution can be difficult. Unlike a consumer fraud transaction, a carrier’s commercial fraud transactions are not guaranteed to be credited.

For truck stops and fueling locations that do not have the RFID receivers installed, QuikQ also offers a traditional fuel card that includes additional security features. One of those features, Secure Swipe, a multifactor authentication for the driver to approve before the transaction is preauthorized.

One example of QuikQ’s SecureSwipe multifactor authentication is when drivers arrive to fuel their tractors. When the driver swipes their fuel card, they instantly receive a text message asking them to confirm the location where the card was swiped with a simple yes or no. If the driver replies Yes, the transaction proceeds.. If the response is no, the transaction is automatically declined. For drivers who accidentally decline a transaction, all it takes is a call to their carrier to confirm and reactivate the transaction. Another security feature QuikQ utilizes is the “One-Hour Rule.” This limits transactions to one per hour at ANY QuikQ merchant, not just the location of the initial transaction.

When using RFID technology, location matters and truck fuel and reefer fuel authorizations are tied into the location of the RFID antenna and tag. Once a tractor moves away from the pump, the RFID tag disengages, and the pump will automatically turn off. Taute says location-based RFID fuel authorization helps prevent a common form of fuel fraud, splash fueling. This is when a driver activates the pump with their fuel card, but actually pulls their truck forward, and sells fuel for cash, to the driver behind them. RFID technology prevents this because the pump and transaction automatically end after the driver pulls forward and out of range of the receiver.

Relationships with trusted payment providers matter for fleets and fuel providers attempting to combat fraud. Taute notes a challenge for small fleets and owner-operators is getting quick access to a live staff member, with many customers not even knowing who their representative is or how to quickly get in contact when fraud occurs.

For large nationwide truckload fleets, “You [have] the Batphone to everyone you need in a company.” Smaller fleets and owner-operators are not so lucky. Taute adds, “However, we’ve talked to some carriers that have hundreds of trucks and they complain about not having a relationship with their billing card company when it comes to dealing with fraud.” Allowing fleets of all sizes quick access to a representative when issues arise and avoiding the byzantine call queue wait is a major advantage for QuikQ.

By: Rich Taute

In the transportation industry, getting things done efficiently is the key to your business. You don’t have the time to let fraud derail your operations or reputation. That’s why the team at QuikQ is constantly working on new and innovative ways to help prevent fuel fraud.

Knowledge is power when it comes to fighting fuel fraud, so read on for a comprehensive guide on recognizing common red flags associated with fraudulent fuel transactions. You’ll also learn more about QuikQ's commitment to security and the features within our Q-Secure suite of solutions that actively detect and prevent suspicious activities.

Identifying Possible Fraud

Let's explore some key red flags that drivers and carrier managers should always be on the lookout for:

• Unusual Transaction Locations: Watch out for transactions from locations not typically frequented by your fleet. Monitor for fueling transactions outside of your designated routes or common stops.
• Inconsistent Fueling Patterns: Take note of sudden changes in fueling patterns, like unexpected increases in fuel consumption or irregular intervals between transactions. Additionally, be cautious if fueling activities don’t line up with your typical fueling tendencies or historical data.
• Abnormal Fuel Volumes: Keep an eye on transactions involving unusually large fuel volumes that exceed the standard capacity of your vehicles. Also, watch for repeated transactions just below the reporting threshold, as that is a frequent method fraudsters use to go unnoticed.
• Frequent Fueling at Odd Hours: You may want to raise a red flag if your fleet is consistently fueling during unusual hours or outside of regular operational schedules. Monitor transactions closely during off-peak times for any irregularities.
• Multiple Transactions from a Single Location: Be cautious if there are multiple transactions from the same location within a short timeframe. This could indicate an attempt to exploit a compromised system or engage in fraudulent activities.

Q-Secure: Proactive Fraud Prevention

Now that we've covered some irregular fueling activities that could uncover fraud, let's explore how QuikQ's Q-Secure suite goes above and beyond to actively prevent fuel fraud.

SmartQ RFID: Authenticating Physical Presence

QuikQ's SmartQ RFID is a great example of our commitment to your security. It is the only fuel payment product that authenticates a truck's physical presence at the pump, adding an unparalleled layer of security and fraud protection. This innovative solution offers a seamless and secure cardless fueling experience, encompassing a vast network of major chains such as Love's, TA, TA Express, and Petro.

Secure Swipe: Real-Time Authentication

Secure Swipe introduces an innovative, real-time method for drivers to authenticate fuel transactions via SMS text messaging. Upon swiping their QuikQ fuel card, drivers receive a verification prompt on the Point of Sale (POS) system and a simultaneous text for transaction confirmation. This real-time authentication process ensures the driver is physically present with their QuikQ fuel card during the purchase, preventing potential fraud. In the event of a denial, QuikQ instantly deactivates the card, alerting both the driver and the carrier.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protecting Portal Users

Recognizing the importance of protecting customer data in our Client Portal, we implemented Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for portal users. This enhancement not only blocks 100% of automated bots, 96% of phishing attacks and 76% of targeted attacks but also adds an extra layer of protection in case users misplace their second authentication method.

One-Hour Rule: A Proactive Deterrent

We implemented our One-Hour Rule as a direct way to mitigate certain types of fuel fraud. This rule restricts fuel cards from being used more than once per hour at any QuikQ accepting merchant. Serving as a strong deterrent to potential fraudsters, the One-Hour Rule significantly reduces the opportunity for unauthorized or suspicious transactions.

QuikQ's Q-Secure suite of features is not just a response to evolving threats—it's a proactive measure that showcases our dedication to safeguarding financial interests and maintaining a high level of security. By combining innovative technology with a commitment to transparency and security, QuikQ empowers truck drivers and carrier managers to navigate the roadways with confidence, knowing that their transactions are protected by a comprehensive and dynamic fraud prevention system.