The fact that analysts predict oil prices to remain above $100 per barrel in the coming year probably does not register with most of us anywhere near as much as the price we get to pay per gallon when we fill up our gas tank at our local gas station, or at least hopefully fill up. If you were to hop in you car right now and head out across the US, part of your trip planning should include where to get your fuel. Right now the price per gallon looks something like this:

• New York, NY – 3.41
• Tampa, FLA – 3.09
• Oklahoma City, OK – 2.86
• Albuquerque, NM – 2.69
• Salt Lake City, UT – 2.82
• Orange County, CA – 3.49
• Portland, OR – 3.19

This variance in price per gallon is determined by cost of delivery, the areas gasoline taxes and the requirements regarding the fuel’s purity. It is nice to know there is some logic behind it. And, at least we can purchase gas, if we have the money. In the 1970’s, when there was a shortage, the prices were high, the lines were long and sometimes you just plain could not get it.

Make sense and save cents

Even if you understand the reasons behind the high prices, it does not make it less damaging to expenses if you need to drive a lot, or you own a business where employees make deliveries or service calls. More and more companies are adding “trip charges” to their fees to share the cost with customers without actually raising their prices; other businesses have no choice but to pass the cost of fuel along to the consumer by increasing prices. Needless to say we all feel it in one form or another, whether we are buying groceries or a postage stamp. Here are suggestions to alleviate some of the expense if you have a business.

1. Vehicle maintenance – A car that is well-maintained with good tires uses less gas. Driving the speed limit is helpful too.
2. Organize your errands – Map out your trips around town so that you save on miles.
3. Walk or ride – Use public transportation if possible. If you only need to go a few blocks, take a walk.
4. Communicate by phone – You can follow up with your clients by phone and still keep it personal. Limit your in person visits and you save on fuel.
5. Go virtual – This idea can save you in so many ways. You and your car can enjoy the comfort of working from home without sacrificing any of your professionalism. Global Business Centers exists to make your business thrive with less expense, and that includes gasoline. Because their packages offer everything from a mailroom to an executive office suite, you will find services to fit your needs and budget. Let them plan out the cost of a postage stamp or rent for virtual office suite so you focus on bringing in more income.

Fill your own barrel

Technology has opened up the door for amazing services and tools. Who would have ever imagined you could live in Albuquerque, NM, where the gas is the cheapest right now, and still have a Beverly Hills address or a New York virtual office. Adding a virtual package is an effective way to fill up your bank account, not your gas tank.