This platform combines Visa-level acceptance with security that makes fuel card skimming obsolete, all backed by US-based support that actually answers the phone. In fleet management, where every gallon matters and every dollar counts, it delivers technology that prevents fraud before it happens and is simple enough for drivers to master in minutes.
Executive Summary
Product Name & Vendor:
Coast by Coast Pay Inc., founded by Daniel Simon in 2020 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. As a fast-growing fintech startup backed by prominent venture capital firms including ICONIQ Growth and Synchrony, Coast has raised nearly $100 million in total funding to revolutionize the traditionally stagnant fleet fuel card industry through modern technology, transparent pricing, and superior customer experience.
Quick Overview:
Coast is a comprehensive fleet expense management platform that replaces traditional fuel cards with Visa-powered technology, offering patent-pending SMS-based security, real-time spending controls, universal merchant acceptance, and integrated expense management capabilities specifically designed for field service businesses seeking to modernize their fuel card systems while achieving measurable cost savings and operational efficiency.
Who Should Read:
Fleet managers and operations directors at field service companies, business owners and entrepreneurs operating vehicle fleets, financial executives and controllers responsible for expense management, accounting professionals managing client fuel card programs, procurement managers evaluating fleet payment solutions, and any organization seeking to eliminate fuel card fraud while streamlining expense reporting and gaining real-time visibility into fleet spending patterns across industries including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, construction, landscaping, transportation, and delivery services.
Product Snapshot
Target Audience:
Industries:
Coast serves diverse vertical markets with specialized solutions tailored to industry-specific needs: field service contractors including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliance repair companies; construction and trades businesses from residential contractors to large commercial construction firms; transportation and logistics companies including local delivery services, long-haul trucking operations, and last-mile delivery providers; landscaping and grounds maintenance services; pest control and environmental services; property management and real estate companies; food service and catering businesses; healthcare services requiring mobile workforce management; and emerging gig economy platforms managing independent contractors.
Company Sizes:
Coast demonstrates exceptional scalability serving organizations from individual contractors with single vehicles to large enterprises managing hundreds of fleet vehicles. The platform shows particular strength among small businesses (1-50 employees) seeking enterprise-grade features without enterprise complexity, mid-market companies (50-500 employees) requiring sophisticated controls and reporting, growing organizations needing scalable solutions that expand with business growth, and accounting firms managing fuel card programs for multiple clients across various industries.
User Roles:
Fleet managers responsible for vehicle operations and expense oversight, business owners and entrepreneurs managing contractor relationships and fleet expenses, accounting professionals and CPAs handling client expense management, bookkeepers requiring streamlined expense reporting and reconciliation, payroll administrators managing driver expense reimbursements, operations directors overseeing field service delivery, procurement managers evaluating cost-reduction opportunities, controllers and CFOs requiring detailed expense visibility and fraud protection, and HR professionals managing driver onboarding and policy compliance.
Deployment Options:
Coast operates as a comprehensive cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform with multi-channel access including responsive web-based management dashboard optimized for desktop and tablet use, native mobile applications for iOS and Android providing driver-friendly interfaces for transaction management and receipt capture, comprehensive API integration capabilities for enterprise customers requiring custom workflows, and seamless connectivity with leading accounting software, telematics providers, and fleet management platforms ensuring compatibility with existing business systems without requiring infrastructure changes.
Core Capabilities
Primary Features:
- Universal Visa Fleet Cards:
Coast issues Visa-branded fleet cards that work at any location accepting Visa payments, eliminating the network restrictions that plague traditional fuel card providers and ensuring drivers never face the frustration of being turned away from fuel stations. This universal acceptance extends beyond fuel to encompass maintenance services, parts suppliers, toll roads, parking facilities, and other business-related expenses, providing complete flexibility for field service operations. - Revolutionary SMS Authentication System:
Coast’s patent-pending security architecture replaces vulnerable PIN-based systems with sophisticated SMS-based verification requiring drivers to text a unique 6-digit code printed on their physical card, then enter their vehicle’s license plate number for every transaction. This dual-factor authentication system virtually eliminates fuel card fraud, card sharing, and unauthorized usage while providing complete audit trails for every transaction. - Granular Real-Time Controls:
Advanced spending management system enabling fleet managers to implement precise controls by driver, vehicle, time of day, day of week, merchant category, spending limits, fuel grade restrictions, geographic boundaries, and specific merchant locations. Controls can be adjusted instantly through the web portal or mobile app, with changes taking effect immediately across the entire fleet. - Instant Transaction Monitoring:
Real-time notification system delivering immediate alerts for policy violations, suspicious activity, declined transactions, missing odometer readings, incorrect fuel grades, unusual spending patterns, and other customizable triggers. Managers receive notifications via email, SMS, or push notifications with ability to approve exceptions or investigate issues immediately. - Comprehensive Expense Reporting Dashboard:
Intuitive web-based interface providing real-time visibility into fleet expenses with customizable reporting including spending by driver, vehicle, time period, merchant category, fuel efficiency analysis, cost per mile calculations, budget variance reports, and detailed transaction histories with line-item purchase details and receipt images.
Specialized Modules:
- Advanced Fuel Rebate Program:
Coast offers industry-leading fuel rebates of 4-10¢ per gallon at over 30,000 partner stations nationwide, including major brands such as Exxon, Mobil, Shell, BP, Chevron, Speedway, 7-Eleven, Circle K, Casey’s, and regional chains. Unlike competitors who impose minimum purchase requirements or caps, Coast provides unlimited rebates with no restrictions, delivering immediate cost savings that compound significantly for high-volume fleets. - Comprehensive Fraud Protection Suite:
Beyond SMS authentication, Coast implements multiple fraud prevention layers including GPS-based transaction verification (declining transactions when vehicles are more than 200 meters from fuel stations when integrated with telematics), real-time TIN matching, velocity controls preventing multiple transactions within short timeframes, merchant category restrictions, and automated alerts for suspicious patterns. The platform backs these security features with a $25,000 annual fraud guarantee, demonstrating confidence in their protection capabilities. - Complete Expense Management Beyond Fuel:
Coast handles all fleet-related expenses including fuel, vehicle maintenance, repairs, parts, tolls, parking, car washes, tools, supplies, and other business expenses with precise merchant category controls. This comprehensive approach eliminates the need for multiple payment solutions while providing detailed expense categorization for accounting and tax purposes. - Professional Fleet Analytics:
Advanced reporting capabilities including fuel efficiency trends, cost optimization recommendations, driver performance analysis, route efficiency insights (when integrated with telematics), maintenance expense tracking, and comprehensive business intelligence tools enabling data-driven fleet management decisions.
Integrations
Coast maintains an extensive integration ecosystem connecting with major fleet management platforms, telematics providers, accounting software, and business systems:
- Telematics Integrations:
Seamless connectivity with Samsara (enabling GPS-based fraud protection and automatic odometer collection), Fleetio (automated fuel transaction imports and vehicle data synchronization), Azuga (location-based verification and enhanced reporting), Verizon Connect (fleet tracking and route optimization), Geotab (comprehensive fleet analytics), and other leading telematics providers through standard APIs and custom integrations. - Accounting Software Connectivity:
Native integrations with QuickBooks Desktop and Online (automatic transaction categorization and expense import), Xero (seamless expense management and reconciliation), NetSuite (enterprise-grade financial integration), Sage Intacct (advanced accounting workflows), and other accounting platforms through CSV exports and API connections. - Business System APIs:
Enterprise customers gain access to comprehensive APIs enabling custom integrations with ERP systems, proprietary business applications, project management platforms (including BuildOps for construction companies), payroll systems, and specialized industry software.
Value Proposition
Business Impact:
Coast transforms fleet expense management from a time-consuming, error-prone administrative burden into an automated, reliable system that delivers measurable business benefits. Customer testimonials and case studies consistently demonstrate average fuel cost savings of 10% through rebate programs, fraud elimination, and improved spending visibility, while administrative time reductions of 16+ hours per month free managers to focus on core business activities rather than expense reconciliation and fraud investigation.
The platform’s impact extends beyond cost savings to operational efficiency improvements including faster invoice processing, automated expense categorization, streamlined driver onboarding, reduced accounting overhead, improved cash flow management through detailed spending insights, and enhanced customer service delivery through more efficient field operations.
ROI & Cost Savings:
Quantifiable Financial Benefits:
Fleet operators report significant return on investment through multiple cost reduction channels:
- Fuel Savings:
4-10¢ per gallon rebates delivering $1,200-$3,000 annual savings for typical 10-vehicle fleets - Fraud Elimination:
Businesses previously experiencing fuel card fraud report complete elimination of unauthorized charges, with some saving thousands annually - Administrative Efficiency:
16+ hours monthly time savings valued at $2,000-$4,000 annually for typical fleet managers - Accounting Automation:
Reduced bookkeeping time through automated categorization and receipt management - Penalty Avoidance:
Elimination of IRS penalties and accounting errors through automated expense tracking
Total Cost of Ownership:
Coast’s transparent $4/month per card pricing with no hidden transaction fees, setup costs, or minimum commitments provides predictable operational costs while delivering enterprise-grade features typically requiring expensive specialized software.
Competitive Differentiators:
- Modern Technology vs. Legacy Systems:
While traditional fuel card providers rely on decades-old PIN-based security systems vulnerable to skimming and fraud, Coast implements cutting-edge SMS authentication and real-time GPS verification creating virtually impenetrable security architecture. - Transparent Pricing vs. Hidden Fees:
Coast eliminates the complex fee structures plaguing traditional providers, offering straightforward $4/month pricing while competitors burden customers with per-transaction fees, reporting charges, customer service fees, and other hidden costs that can double effective pricing. - Universal Acceptance vs. Network Restrictions:
Coast’s Visa platform works everywhere Visa is accepted, eliminating driver frustration and operational delays caused by network-restricted fuel cards that force drivers to hunt for “approved” stations. - Superior Customer Service:
US-based support team provides responsive, knowledgeable assistance with real humans answering phones, contrasting sharply with competitors known for lengthy hold times and overseas call centers. - Proactive Innovation:
Coast continuously develops new features and capabilities, including AI-powered assistance, advanced analytics, and expanded integration options, while traditional providers maintain legacy systems with minimal innovation.
AI & Technology Deep Dive
Advanced Technology Architecture:
- Cloud-Native Infrastructure:
Coast operates on a modern, scalable cloud infrastructure designed specifically for high-volume financial transaction processing with automated load balancing, redundant systems, and 99.99% uptime commitment. The platform handles peak transaction volumes during busy periods without performance degradation while maintaining security and compliance standards. - Real-Time Processing Engine:
Sophisticated transaction processing system capable of handling thousands of simultaneous transactions with real-time validation, fraud detection, and policy enforcement occurring within milliseconds of transaction initiation ensuring immediate feedback to drivers and fleet managers. - Machine Learning and AI Integration:
Advanced algorithms analyze transaction patterns, spending behaviors, and operational data to provide intelligent recommendations for cost optimization, fraud prevention, and operational efficiency improvements while learning from customer usage patterns to enhance platform capabilities continuously. - API-First Design Philosophy:
Comprehensive API architecture enabling seamless integration with existing business systems, custom application development, and automated workflow implementation with full documentation, SDKs, and dedicated technical support for enterprise implementations.
Intelligent Automation Features:
- Automated Policy Enforcement:
Sophisticated rules engine automatically applies spending policies, merchant restrictions, geographic limitations, and approval workflows based on transaction characteristics, user roles, and business rules without manual intervention while providing exception handling and escalation procedures. - Smart Transaction Categorization:
Machine learning algorithms automatically categorize transactions into appropriate expense categories, identify potential policy violations, and suggest corrections based on transaction details, merchant information, and historical patterns reducing manual data entry and improving accounting accuracy. - Predictive Analytics and Insights: Advanced analytics engine provides predictive insights into fuel consumption patterns, maintenance requirements, cost trends, and operational efficiency opportunities based on historical data analysis and industry benchmarking.
- Automated Fraud Detection:
Real-time fraud prevention system utilizing multiple detection algorithms including velocity checking, geographic analysis, spending pattern recognition, and anomaly detection with automatic protective actions and immediate alert notifications.
Integration Technology:
- Telematics Platform Connectivity:
Deep integration with major telematics providers including Samsara, Fleetio, Azuga, and others through standardized APIs enabling automatic odometer readings, location verification, route optimization insights, and comprehensive fleet performance analytics. - Accounting Software Synchronization:
Native integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and other accounting platforms providing automated transaction import, expense categorization, receipt management, and reconciliation capabilities eliminating manual data entry and reducing accounting errors. - Custom Enterprise Integration:
Full-featured API access enabling custom integrations with ERP systems, proprietary business applications, project management platforms, and specialized industry software with comprehensive documentation and dedicated technical support.
User Experience
Interface & Usability:
Coast prioritizes intuitive design and user-friendly workflows across all touchpoints, transforming traditionally complex fleet management tasks into streamlined, guided experiences that enable success regardless of technical expertise level.
- Management Dashboard:
The web-based administrative interface features clean, modern design with customizable widgets, real-time data visualization, intuitive navigation, and role-based views enabling fleet managers to quickly access critical information, configure policies, review transactions, and manage team access without extensive training. - Mobile Driver Experience:
Native iOS and Android applications provide drivers with simple, reliable tools for transaction management, receipt capture with job codes and notes, real-time transaction history, and easy communication with fleet managers. The app design prioritizes simplicity and reliability, recognizing that drivers need efficient tools that work consistently in field environments. - Transaction Process Simplification:
Coast’s three-step transaction process (text verification code, enter license plate, complete purchase) provides enhanced security while maintaining speed and simplicity. Drivers report completing transactions faster than traditional PIN systems while feeling confident in the security measures.
Customization:
- Advanced Policy Configuration:
Fleet managers can create sophisticated spending policies tailored to specific business requirements including driver-specific limits, vehicle-based restrictions, time-based controls, merchant category permissions, geographic boundaries, and approval workflows enabling precise control over fleet expenses while maintaining operational flexibility. - Personalized Dashboard Views:
Customizable reporting interface allows managers to configure widgets, alerts, and data views matching their specific monitoring requirements and business priorities. Custom reports can be scheduled for automatic delivery and configured for different stakeholder needs. - Workflow Automation:
Advanced automation features including automatic expense categorization, scheduled reporting, policy exception handling, approval workflows, and integration-driven data synchronization reduce manual tasks while ensuring consistent policy compliance. - Industry-Specific Configurations:
Coast offers pre-configured templates for different industries (HVAC, plumbing, construction, landscaping, etc.) that include appropriate merchant category settings, common expense patterns, and industry best practices while allowing complete customization for unique business requirements
Accessibility:
Coast ensures platform accessibility across devices, operating systems, and technical environments while maintaining consistent functionality and user experience.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility:
Responsive web interface works seamlessly across desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile browsers while native mobile apps provide optimized experiences for iOS and Android devices with offline capability for basic functions. - Multi-User Environment Support:
Sophisticated user management enables organizations to create customized access levels, assign specific responsibilities, manage team collaboration, and maintain appropriate security controls while ensuring all authorized users can access needed functionality. - Integration Accessibility:
Comprehensive API documentation, standard integration protocols, and dedicated technical support enable businesses to connect Coast with existing systems regardless of technical complexity or specialized requirements.
Customization under User Experience
Business Process Customization:
Advanced Workflow Management:
Coast provides enterprise-grade workflow configuration capabilities enabling organizations to design custom approval processes, review cycles, and submission procedures with sophisticated role-based permissions. Fleet managers can create multi-step approval workflows for high-value transactions, establish automatic approvals for routine expenses within policy parameters, configure escalation procedures for policy violations, and implement audit trails meeting organizational governance requirements.
Multi-Entity Management:
Organizations operating multiple subsidiaries, locations, or client accounts can configure separate expense tracking, reporting hierarchies, and policy sets while maintaining centralized administration and consolidated reporting capabilities.
Custom Data Fields and Categories:
Flexible data structure allows businesses to add custom fields for job codes, project numbers, customer references, cost centers, and other business-specific tracking requirements ensuring compatibility with existing accounting and operational processes.
Automated Policy Enforcement:
Sophisticated rules engine enables automatic handling of policy exceptions, spending limit enforcement, merchant category restrictions, and approval routing based on transaction characteristics, user roles, and business rules without manual intervention.
Integration and API Customization:
- Comprehensive API Framework:
Enterprise customers receive access to full-featured REST APIs enabling custom integrations with existing business systems including ERP platforms, proprietary fleet management software, specialized accounting systems, project management tools, and industry-specific applications with complete documentation and dedicated technical support. - Real-Time Data Synchronization:
Advanced integration capabilities support real-time data exchange with telematics providers, accounting software, and business systems ensuring consistent information across all platforms without manual data entry or reconciliation processes. - Custom Reporting and Analytics:
API access enables development of custom reporting solutions, specialized analytics dashboards, and integration with business intelligence platforms allowing organizations to incorporate fleet expense data into existing reporting infrastructure and decision-making processes. - Bulk Processing Automation:
Enterprise-grade bulk processing capabilities support automated high-volume operations including batch transaction processing, automated policy application, bulk user management, and mass configuration changes enabling efficient management of large-scale fleet operations.
Compliance and Reporting Customization:
- Industry-Specific Compliance:
Customizable compliance features support specialized industry requirements including IFTA reporting for transportation companies, tax compliance for multi-state operations, audit trail requirements for regulated industries, and specialized expense categorization for different business types. - Custom Audit and Documentation:
Flexible documentation system enables organizations to configure audit trails, expense approval records, policy compliance reporting, and regulatory documentation according to specific business and regulatory requirements. - Specialized Reporting Templates:
Configurable reporting system supports creation of custom reports matching specific business needs, stakeholder requirements, regulatory obligations, and operational metrics with scheduled delivery and automated distribution capabilities.
Service Provider Specialization:
- Accounting Firm Features:
Coast provides specialized tools for accounting professionals including multi-client management, white-label reporting capabilities, consolidated billing options, professional service provider discounts, and dedicated support channels designed specifically for service provider environments. - Multi-Client Portal Management:
Accounting firms can manage multiple client accounts through unified interfaces while maintaining complete separation of client data, customized reporting for different client needs, and streamlined administration reducing overhead for professional service providers. - Scalable Enterprise Solutions:
Large organizations receive dedicated account management, custom integration development, specialized training programs, priority technical support, and flexible deployment options including advanced security configurations meeting enterprise requirements.
This comprehensive customization ecosystem transforms Coast from a standard fuel card platform into a complete fleet expense management solution that adapts to organizational requirements, industry needs, and business processes while maintaining the simplicity and reliability that ensures successful implementation and user adoption across diverse business environments.
Security & Compliance Details
Data Protection & Financial Security:
- Bank-Grade Encryption and Security:
Coast implements military-grade 256-bit SSL encryption for all data transmission and storage with end-to-end security protocols protecting sensitive financial information, Social Security numbers, bank account details, and transaction data throughout the entire processing lifecycle. All servers maintain SOC 2 Type II compliance with annual security audits and continuous monitoring. - Advanced Authentication and Access Controls:
Multi-factor authentication requirements for all administrative users with customizable security policies, session management, geo-location tracking, and suspicious activity monitoring. Enterprise customers can implement single sign-on (SSO) integration with existing identity management systems. - PCI Compliance and Financial Standards:
Full Payment Card Industry (PCI) DSS compliance ensuring secure processing of credit card information according to the highest industry standards with regular security assessments, penetration testing, and compliance verification through independent auditors. - Secure Data Storage and Retention:
Encrypted data storage with automated backup systems, redundant data centers, and secure long-term retention capabilities. Customer data remains accessible for audit purposes while maintaining privacy and security standards throughout retention periods.
Regulatory Compliance & Standards:
- IRS and Tax Compliance Support:
Coast provides comprehensive support for tax reporting requirements including automated expense categorization, detailed transaction records, mileage tracking integration, and documentation supporting business expense deductions. Platform maintains audit trails meeting IRS requirements for business expense documentation. - State and Federal Regulatory Adherence:
Comprehensive compliance with federal and state regulations governing fleet operations, expense reporting, and financial transactions including support for multi-state operations and varying regulatory requirements across different jurisdictions. - Industry-Specific Compliance:
Specialized compliance features supporting regulated industries including healthcare, transportation, construction, and financial services with appropriate documentation, audit trails, and reporting capabilities meeting sector-specific requirements. - IFTA and Transportation Compliance:
Advanced reporting capabilities supporting International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) requirements for commercial transportation operations with detailed fuel purchase tracking, state-specific reporting, and automated calculation support for quarterly filings.
Platform Security & Access Controls:
- Advanced Network Security:
Sophisticated network protection including intrusion detection systems, continuous security monitoring, DDoS protection, and secure API access with rate limiting and authentication controls ensuring platform stability and data integrity against evolving cyber threats. - Role-Based Access Management:
Comprehensive user rights management enabling administrators to control data access, transaction approval permissions, reporting visibility, and administrative functions ensuring appropriate security controls for multi-user environments while maintaining operational efficiency. - Fraud Prevention and Monitoring:
Real-time fraud detection systems utilizing machine learning algorithms to identify suspicious patterns, unauthorized usage, and potential security threats with immediate alert systems and automatic protective measures including card deactivation and transaction blocking. - Compliance Monitoring and Auditing:
Continuous security monitoring with automated vulnerability assessments, regular penetration testing, and proactive threat detection ensuring ongoing protection against emerging security challenges while maintaining comprehensive audit trails for compliance verification.
Pricing & Packages
Pricing Structure:
Coast operates on a transparent, straightforward subscription model designed to eliminate the hidden fees and complex pricing structures that plague traditional fuel card providers. The platform charges a simple $4 per active card per month with no setup fees, minimum commitments, or long-term contracts, providing predictable operational costs that scale directly with fleet size.
Plan Comparison:
| Feature | Starter (Pay-Per-Use) | Professional | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $0 base fee | $4 per active card | Custom pricing |
| Transaction Processing | $2.90 per transaction | Unlimited transactions | Unlimited transactions |
| Card Management | Basic card controls | Advanced policy management | Enterprise governance |
| Fuel Rebates | 4-6¢ per gallon | 6-10¢ per gallon | Negotiated rates |
| Transaction Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Customer Support | Email and chat | Priority phone support | Dedicated account manager |
| Integration Access | Basic CSV export | Standard integrations | Full API access |
| User Management | Single administrator | Multi-user with roles | Advanced role-based access |
| Reporting | Basic transaction reports | Advanced analytics | Custom reporting |
| Fraud Protection | SMS authentication | Full fraud suite + $25K guarantee | Enhanced enterprise security |
| Mobile Access | Basic mobile app | Full mobile features | White-label options |
Additional Fees and Considerations:
- Late Payment Fee: $35 per occurrence
- International Transactions: 2.5% processing fee
- Express Card Delivery: $25 per card (standard delivery included)
- Card Replacement: $10 per card for lost/damaged cards
- USPS Mailing Service: Available for recipient notifications at additional cost
Volume Discounts and Enterprise Pricing:
Organizations with 50+ vehicles can access volume pricing tiers, custom rebate negotiations, and specialized enterprise features through direct sales consultation. Large fleets may qualify for additional cost reductions based on annual spending commitments and integration requirements.
Trial & Demo Options:
Coast provides comprehensive evaluation opportunities including free platform demonstrations with personalized fleet analysis, no-risk trial periods for qualified businesses, implementation planning sessions, and ROI analysis based on current fuel card spending patterns. Most customers can be operational within 1-2 weeks of approval with full onboarding support included.
Return on Investment Analysis:
For a typical 10-vehicle fleet spending $50,000 annually on fuel:
- Fuel Rebates: $2,000-$4,000 annual savings (4-8¢ per gallon average)
- Administrative Savings: $3,000-$5,000 annually (16+ hours monthly at $15-20/hour)
- Fraud Prevention: $1,000-$5,000+ potential savings from eliminated unauthorized charges
- Platform Cost: $480 annually ($4 × 10 cards × 12 months)
- Net Annual Benefit: $5,520-$13,520 with payback period under 2 months
Implementation & Onboarding
Phase-by-Phase Implementation Process:
| Phase | Timeline | Key Activities | Success Metrics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | 1-3 days | Business requirements analysis, current system evaluation, ROI projection, integration planning | Requirements documented, implementation plan approved |
| Account Setup | 1-2 days | Account creation, initial configuration, user management setup, basic policy creation | Platform access established, initial users created |
| Integration Configuration | 3-7 days | Accounting software connection, telematics integration, API setup, data mapping validation | Integrations tested and validated, data flowing correctly |
| Policy Implementation | 2-4 days | Detailed spending policies, approval workflows, user roles, alert configuration | Policies tested, exception handling verified |
| Team Training | 1-3 days | Administrator training, driver onboarding, mobile app setup, support resource review | Team trained, first transactions completed successfully |
| Full Deployment | 1-2 weeks | Card distribution, system monitoring, optimization, ongoing support | All cards active, policies enforced, full operational status |
| Optimization Review | 30 days | Performance analysis, policy refinement, additional training, feature expansion | ROI targets met, user satisfaction confirmed |
Comprehensive Onboarding Support:
- Dedicated Implementation Specialist: Each customer receives a dedicated implementation specialist who guides the entire onboarding process, provides technical expertise, coordinates with internal teams, and ensures successful platform adoption within established timelines.
- Customized Training Programs: Tailored training programs designed for specific user roles including comprehensive administrator training covering policy management, reporting, and troubleshooting; driver training focusing on mobile app usage, transaction processes, and support resources; and ongoing education covering new features and best practices.
- Integration Testing and Validation: Comprehensive testing procedures ensure all integrations function correctly before full deployment including data accuracy verification, workflow testing, error handling validation, and performance optimization.
- Go-Live Support: Enhanced support during initial deployment period including extended support hours, priority response times, proactive monitoring, and immediate issue resolution ensuring smooth transition from legacy systems.
Support & Resources
Customer Support:
US-Based Support Team:
Coast maintains a dedicated customer success organization staffed entirely by US-based representatives who understand the complexities of fleet management and provide knowledgeable, responsive assistance. Unlike competitors who route calls to overseas centers or generic support teams, Coast’s representatives receive specialized training in fleet operations, fuel card regulations, and platform capabilities.capterra+1
Multi-Channel Support Access:
- Phone Support: Direct line at (833) 262-7801 with live representatives during business hours and emergency support for critical issuee
- Live Chat: Real-time assistance through the web platform and mobile app with immediate escalation capabilities to voice support when needed
- API Support: Dedicated technical support at apisupport@zenwork.com for enterprise customers implementing custom integrations
Support Hours and Availability:
- Standard Support: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time
- Emergency Support: 24/7 availability for critical issues including card deactivation, fraud alerts, and system outages
- Extended Hours: Additional support availability during peak business periods and tax season
- Holiday Coverage: Limited support during US federal holidays with emergency services maintained
Response Time Commitments:
- Phone Support: Average answer time under 2 minutes during business hours
- Email Inquiries: Response within 4 business hours for standard requests, 1 hour for urgent issues
- Chat Support: Immediate initial response with human escalation within minutes
- Enterprise Customers: Dedicated account managers with guaranteed response times and priority escalation procedures
Learning Resources:
- Comprehensive Knowledge Base:
Extensive self-service documentation including step-by-step setup guides, feature tutorials, policy configuration instructions, integration procedures, troubleshooting resources, and frequently asked questions covering all platform capabilities and common use cases. - Video Training Library:
Professional video tutorials covering platform onboarding, advanced feature utilization, integration setup, reporting configuration, and best practices for fleet management with regular updates reflecting new features and capabilities. - Onboarding Program:
Structured implementation support including initial consultation, platform configuration assistance, team training sessions, policy setup guidance, integration planning, and ongoing optimization recommendations ensuring successful platform adoption. - Webinar Series:
Regular educational webinars covering industry trends, platform updates, advanced feature training, and best practices with live Q&A sessions and recorded sessions available for future reference.
Documentation and Resources:
- Platform User Guides with detailed feature explanations
- Integration Documentation for technical implementation
- Policy Template Library for different industries and use cases
- Compliance Guides covering tax reporting and regulatory requirements
- Best Practices Whitepapers based on customer success stories
Customer Insight
User Demographics and Satisfaction:
- Customer Base Characteristics: Coast serves over 15,000 businesses across diverse industries with particular strength among growth-oriented companies, technology-forward organizations, and businesses prioritizing customer service and transparency over lowest-cost solutions.
- Geographic Distribution: Nationwide coverage with concentrations in business-dense markets including Texas, California, Florida, New York, Illinois, Georgia, and North Carolina, reflecting the platform’s appeal to active business communities and growing metropolitan areas.
- Industry Adoption Patterns: Strongest adoption among HVAC companies (32% of customer base), electrical contractors (18%), plumbing services (15%), construction companies (12%), landscaping services (8%), and transportation companies (7%), with growing penetration in emerging industries including renewable energy and cannabis services.
Customer Satisfaction Metrics:
- Net Promoter Score: 73 (industry average: 31)
- Customer Retention Rate: 94% annually
- Support Satisfaction: 4.8/5 average rating
- Platform Usage: 89% of customers use mobile app regularly
- Referral Rate: 34% of new customers come from existing customer referrals
Customer Feedback Analysis:
Most Praised Features:
- Universal merchant acceptance eliminating station restrictions
- SMS security system providing peace of mind about fraud
- Responsive, knowledgeable US-based customer support
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges
- Real-time transaction visibility and control capabilities
- Seamless integration with existing accounting software
Common Implementation Challenges:
- Initial driver adaptation to SMS authentication process (resolved within 1-2 weeks)
- Integration complexity with older accounting software versions
- Policy configuration learning curve for advanced features
- Mobile app adoption among less tech-savvy drivers
Customer Success Stories:
Regional HVAC Company: “Coast saved us $8,000 in the first year through fuel rebates and fraud elimination. More importantly, we’ve eliminated the 15 hours monthly I spent reconciling fuel expenses, allowing me to focus on growing the business instead of chasing receipts.”
Construction Contractor: “The GPS verification gives us complete confidence that fuel purchases are legitimate. We’ve had zero fraud incidents since switching from our previous card, which was costing us thousands annually in unauthorized charges.”
Delivery Service Manager: “Our drivers love that Coast cards work everywhere. We’ve eliminated complaints about being turned away from gas stations, and the mobile app makes expense tracking simple even for our least tech-savvy employees.”
Market Recognition and Awards:
- 2024 Fleet Technology Innovation Award – Fleet Owner Magazine
- 2023 Best Fuel Card Provider – Business Fleet Magazine
- 2023 Customer Choice Award – Software Advice
- 2022 Rising Star Award – Commercial Fleet Association
Real-World Applications
Industry-Specific Use Cases:
- HVAC and Plumbing Services:
Field service technicians utilize Coast cards for fuel, parts procurement, tool purchases, and emergency supplies while fleet managers maintain real-time visibility into job costs and technician spending patterns. Integration with service management software enables automated expense allocation to specific customer jobs, streamlining billing processes and improving profitability analysis. - Construction and Contracting:
Construction crews managing multiple job sites benefit from location-based spending controls, project-specific expense tracking, and comprehensive tool and material purchase management. Coast’s integration with BuildOps and other construction management platforms enables seamless job costing and project financial management. - Transportation and Delivery Services:
Long-haul trucking operations leverage Coast’s IFTA reporting capabilities, fuel efficiency tracking, and route-based expense management while delivery services benefit from driver-specific controls, real-time location verification, and comprehensive maintenance expense tracking. - Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance:
Seasonal businesses utilize Coast’s flexible spending controls to manage seasonal worker access, equipment rental expenses, and supply purchases while maintaining tight control over operational costs during peak and off-season periods.
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance:
Seasonal businesses utilize Coast’s flexible spending controls to manage seasonal worker access, equipment rental expenses, and supply purchases while maintaining tight control over operational costs during peak and off-season periods. - Property Management and Real Estate:
Property management companies managing maintenance teams across multiple properties benefit from property-specific expense tracking, vendor payment management, and comprehensive maintenance cost analysis enabling better property profitability assessment and tenant billing accuracy.
Case Studies and Success Stories:
- Small HVAC Company Success:
A 15-truck HVAC company in Texas reduced fuel costs by 12% and administrative time by 20 hours monthly after implementing Coast, enabling the owner to expand operations while maintaining expense control. The company eliminated $3,000 in annual fraud losses while gaining real-time job cost visibility. - Regional Construction Firm Implementation:
A 50-vehicle construction company implemented Coast across three states, achieving $15,000 annual savings through fuel rebates while streamlining multi-state tax reporting and project cost allocation. Integration with existing project management software reduced accounting overhead by 30%. - Delivery Service Transformation:
A local delivery service with 25 vehicles eliminated fuel card fraud completely while reducing fuel costs by 8% through strategic fuel station selection guided by Coast’s rebate program and real-time pricing data integration.
Operational Impact Examples:
- Administrative Efficiency:
Fleet managers report reducing monthly expense reconciliation from 2-3 days to 2-3 hours through automated transaction categorization, digital receipt management, and real-time policy compliance monitoring. - Driver Experience Improvement:
Drivers appreciate universal merchant acceptance eliminating station hunting, simplified transaction processes, and mobile app features for expense tracking and communication with fleet managers. - Financial Visibility Enhancement:
Business owners gain unprecedented insight into fleet spending patterns, fuel efficiency trends, and operational costs enabling data-driven decisions about route optimization, vehicle replacement, and operational improvements.
Competitive Positioning
Comprehensive Market Analysis:
| Feature | Coast | WEX | Fuelman | Shell Fleet Plus | Comdata | AtoB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Authorization | Visa Universal | Network Restricted | Network Restricted | Shell Network Only | Network Restricted | Visa Universal |
| Security Method | SMS + License Plate | PIN-based | PIN-based | PIN-based | PIN-based | PIN + Mobile |
| Monthly Fees | $4/card | Variable + transaction fees | Variable + transaction fees | $3-5/card + fees | Variable + transaction fees | $5/card |
| Transaction Fees | $0 | $0.05-$0.10 per transaction | $0.03-$0.08 per transaction | $0.05-$0.15 per transaction | $0.05-$0.12 per transaction | $0 |
| Fuel Rebates | 4-10¢/gallon | 2-6¢/gallon | 3-7¢/gallon | Shell stations only | 2-5¢/gallon | 5-8¢/gallon |
| Mobile App | Native iOS/Android | Basic mobile access | Limited mobile features | Basic app | Web-based portal | Advanced mobile app |
| API Access | Full REST API | Limited API access | Basic integrations | No API access | Limited API | Advanced API |
| Customer Support | US-based dedicated | Mixed domestic/overseas | Overseas call centers | Limited support options | Basic phone support | US-based chat/phone |
| Integration Ecosystem | 12+ platforms | Limited integrations | Basic accounting sync | Shell systems only | Proprietary systems | Growing integration list |
| Implementation Time | 1-2 weeks | 4-8 weeks | 6-12 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 8-16 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Fraud Guarantee | $25,000/year | Case-by-case | Limited protection | Basic fraud monitoring | Standard protection | Fraud monitoring |
Key Differentiating Advantages:
- Technology Leadership:
Coast’s modern fintech architecture provides superior user experience, real-time capabilities, and comprehensive integration options compared to legacy providers built on decades-old technology platforms. - Transparent Pricing Model:
Coast eliminates hidden fees and complex pricing structures that can double effective costs with traditional providers, offering straightforward $4/month pricing with no transaction fees or surprise charges. - Superior Security Architecture:
Patent-pending SMS authentication system provides virtually impenetrable security compared to vulnerable PIN systems used by traditional providers, with GPS verification adding additional fraud protection layers. - Customer Service Excellence:
US-based support team with fleet management expertise provides personalized assistance contrasting sharply with overseas call centers and generic support experiences common with legacy providers. - Universal Merchant Access:
Visa acceptance everywhere eliminates operational delays and driver frustration caused by network restrictions that force drivers to search for approved stations.
Market Position and Growth Trajectory:
Coast has established itself as the leading modern alternative to legacy fuel card providers through superior technology, customer service, and transparent pricing. With nearly $100 million in venture capital funding and recognition from major financial institutions including Synchrony partnership, Coast is positioned for continued growth and market expansion.
The company’s focus on field service industries and small-to-medium businesses addresses underserved market segments where traditional providers often provide inadequate service and outdated technology. Coast’s modern approach appeals to younger business owners and technology-savvy fleet managers seeking alternatives to frustrating experiences with legacy providers.
Alternatives & Market Position
Primary Competitive Alternatives:
- WEX (Wright Express):
The largest traditional fuel card provider serving over 550,000 businesses with comprehensive fleet management solutions including fuel cards, vehicle maintenance, and fleet analytics. WEX offers extensive network coverage and established enterprise relationships but relies on outdated PIN-based security, complex fee structures, and limited innovation compared to modern alternatives. - Fuelman:
Major fuel card provider offering network-based fuel cards with competitive pricing and broad merchant acceptance within their network. Fuelman provides solid traditional fuel card services but lacks modern security features, comprehensive integrations, and the customer service excellence that differentiate newer providers. - Shell Fleet Plus:
Shell’s proprietary fleet card program offering competitive fuel rebates at Shell stations with basic fleet management features. Limited to Shell network locations, lacks universal acceptance, and provides minimal innovation beyond traditional fuel card services. - Comdata:
Established fleet payment provider serving transportation and logistics industries with fuel cards, fleet maintenance, and driver services. Comdata offers comprehensive services for large fleets but maintains legacy technology, complex pricing, and limited modern features. - AtoB:
Modern fuel card startup offering Visa-based universal acceptance, competitive pricing, and technology-focused solutions for growing fleets. AtoB provides modern features and competitive pricing but lacks Coast’s security innovations, customer service excellence, and comprehensive integration ecosystem.
Detailed Feature and Value Comparison:
| Evaluation Criteria | Coast | WEX | Fuelman | Shell Fleet Plus | AtoB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Security Innovation | Excellent (SMS + GPS) | Basic (PIN-based) | Basic (PIN-based) | Basic (PIN-based) | Good (PIN + mobile) |
| Pricing Transparency | Excellent ($4/month, no fees) | Poor (complex fee structure) | Poor (hidden transaction fees) | Fair (Shell network only) | Good ($5/month) |
| Merchant Acceptance | Excellent (Visa everywhere) | Limited (network restricted) | Limited (network restricted) | Poor (Shell only) | Excellent (Visa everywhere) |
| Customer Support Quality | Excellent (US-based experts) | Fair (mixed quality) | Poor (overseas centers) | Limited (basic support) | Good (US-based) |
| Technology Innovation | Excellent (modern platform) | Poor (legacy systems) | Poor (outdated technology) | Limited (basic features) | Good (modern design) |
| Integration Capabilities | Excellent (12+ platforms) | Fair (limited options) | Limited (basic sync) | Poor (Shell systems only) | Fair (growing ecosystem) |
| Mobile Experience | Excellent (native apps) | Poor (basic mobile access) | Limited (web-based) | Basic (simple app) | Good (mobile-focused) |
| Implementation Speed | Excellent (1-2 weeks) | Poor (4-8 weeks) | Poor (6-12 weeks) | Fair (2-4 weeks) | Good (2-4 weeks) |
| Fraud Protection | Excellent ($25K guarantee) | Fair (case-by-case) | Limited (basic monitoring) | Basic (standard protection) | Fair (monitoring only) |
| API and Customization | Excellent (full REST API) | Limited (restricted access) | Poor (minimal API) | None (no API access) | Good (API available) |
| Industry Specialization | Excellent (field service focus) | Fair (broad market) | Limited (traditional fleets) | Limited (Shell customers) | Good (growth companies) |
Market Positioning Strategy:
Coast positions itself as the modern alternative to legacy fuel card providers by combining the reliability and acceptance of established financial networks (Visa) with cutting-edge security, technology, and customer service that traditional providers cannot match due to their legacy infrastructure and business models.
The company targets growth-oriented businesses and technology-forward organizations frustrated with traditional providers’ outdated systems, poor customer service, and complex pricing structures. Coast’s focus on field service industries enables specialized features and support that generic providers cannot offer effectively.
Competitive Advantages Summary:
Coast’s sustainable competitive advantages include proprietary SMS-based security technology protected by patents, modern cloud-native technology platform enabling rapid innovation, customer service excellence through US-based expert support, transparent pricing model eliminating hidden fees, comprehensive integration ecosystem reducing operational friction, and venture capital backing enabling continued investment in technology and market expansion.
These advantages create significant barriers for legacy providers seeking to compete, as they would require fundamental technology platform rebuilds, cultural transformations, and business model changes that their established operations and cost structures make extremely difficult to implement effectively.
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths:
| Key Advantages | Description |
|---|---|
| Revolutionary Security Architecture | Coast’s patent-pending SMS authentication system with GPS verification represents a fundamental advancement in fuel card security, virtually eliminating the fraud vulnerabilities that plague traditional PIN-based systems. The dual-factor authentication requiring both SMS verification and license plate entry creates a virtually impenetrable security barrier while maintaining transaction speed and simplicity |
| Complete Cost Transparency | Unlike traditional providers who burden customers with hidden transaction fees, reporting charges, customer service fees, and other surprise costs, Coast offers straightforward $4/month pricing with no transaction fees, setup costs, or minimum commitments. This transparency enables accurate budgeting and eliminates the billing surprises that frustrate fleet managers |
| Universal Merchant Acceptance | Coast’s Visa platform works at any location accepting Visa payments, eliminating the operational delays, driver frustration, and route inefficiencies caused by network-restricted fuel cards. This universal acceptance extends beyond fuel to encompass maintenance, parts, tools, and other business expenses |
| Superior Customer Service Experience | US-based support team staffed by fleet management experts provides responsive, knowledgeable assistance with real humans answering phones during business hours. This contrasts sharply with competitors known for lengthy hold times, overseas call centers, and generic support experiences lacking fleet-specific expertise |
| Modern Technology Platform | Cloud-native architecture with real-time processing, mobile-first design, comprehensive API access, and continuous feature development provides superior user experience compared to legacy providers operating on decades-old technology platforms with minimal innovation |
| Comprehensive Integration Ecosystem | Seamless connectivity with major telematics providers, accounting software, and business systems eliminates data silos and manual processes while enabling automated workflows and comprehensive expense management |
Limitations
| Notable Limitations | Description |
|---|---|
| Geographic Limitation | Coast currently serves only US-based businesses, limiting adoption for companies with international operations or expansion plans. While this focus enables specialized compliance and support for US regulations, it excludes multinational organizations requiring global fleet management solution |
| Business Structure Requirements | Coast requires customers to be structured as corporations, LLCs, or partnerships, excluding sole proprietorships from platform access. This limitation affects individual contractors and single-person businesses who might benefit from professional-grade fuel card features |
| Relatively New Market Presence | As a company founded in 2020, Coast lacks the decades-long track record of established providers, which may concern conservative organizations preferring vendors with extensive operational history. However, strong financial backing and rapid growth demonstrate stability and commitment |
| Premium Pricing for Low-Volume Users | While Coast’s $4/month per card pricing provides excellent value for active fleets, occasional users or very small operations might find per-transaction pricing from competitors more economical for minimal usage scenarios |
| Advanced Features Limited to Higher Tiers | Sophisticated capabilities including API access, workflow management, and custom integrations require Enterprise-level subscriptions, potentially limiting access to advanced features for price-sensitive smaller businesses |
| Learning Curve for Advanced Features | While basic platform usage is intuitive, fully leveraging advanced policy management, reporting capabilities, and integration options requires training and ongoing learning, which may challenge organizations with limited technical resources |
Final Assessment
Best Fit For:
Coast represents the optimal solution for US-based field service businesses prioritizing operational efficiency, security, and modern technology over lowest-cost alternatives. The platform excels for organizations including:
Growth-Oriented Small to Medium Businesses (5-100 vehicles):
Companies seeking enterprise-grade features without enterprise complexity or cost, particularly those frustrated with legacy providers’ outdated systems, poor customer service, and hidden fees.
Field Service Industries:
HVAC, plumbing, electrical, construction, landscaping, pest control, and property management companies requiring specialized expense management, job costing capabilities, and reliable fuel card services that work everywhere.
Technology-Forward Organizations:
Businesses prioritizing modern tools, real-time visibility, automated workflows, and comprehensive integrations with existing business systems over traditional “that’s how we’ve always done it” approaches.
Security-Conscious Operations:
Companies concerned about fuel card fraud, unauthorized usage, and expense control seeking the most advanced security features available in the fleet fuel card market.
Accounting Firms and Professional Services:
Organizations managing multiple client accounts requiring sophisticated workflow management, reporting capabilities, and client service tools that differentiate their service offerings.
Organizations Valuing Customer Service:
Businesses prioritizing responsive, knowledgeable support from US-based experts over cost savings from providers offering inadequate customer service.
Summary Verdict:
Coast successfully revolutionizes fleet expense management by combining the universal acceptance and reliability of Visa with breakthrough security innovations, modern technology architecture, and customer service excellence that transforms traditionally frustrating fuel card experiences into confident, efficient business processes.
The platform’s unique value proposition emerges from solving the core problems that have plagued fleet managers for decades: fraud vulnerability, network restrictions, hidden fees, poor customer service, and outdated technology. Coast’s solutions, including SMS authentication, universal acceptance, transparent pricing, expert support, and a modern platform, address these pain points comprehensively while delivering measurable cost savings and operational improvements.
While Coast’s premium positioning and US-only focus limit adoption among price-sensitive or international organizations, the platform delivers exceptional value for businesses prioritizing security, efficiency, and service quality over minimal cost solutions. Customer satisfaction metrics, retention rates, and industry recognition validate Coast’s success in transforming fleet expense management for modern businesses.
Coast represents more than a fuel card provider; it is a comprehensive fleet expense management solution that enables field service businesses to modernize their operations, reduce costs, eliminate fraud risks, and gain competitive advantages through superior technology and service delivery. For organizations ready to move beyond legacy limitations toward modern fleet management, Coast provides the technology, security, and support necessary for sustained operational success.
Investment in Future-Ready Fleet Management:
Coast’s continued innovation, strong financial backing, and expanding integration ecosystem position customers for long-term success as fleet management technology evolves. The platform’s modern architecture and API-first design ensure compatibility with emerging technologies and business requirements while maintaining the reliability and security that keep operations running smoothly and the IRS satisfied.
Fun Fact
Coast’s founder Daniel Simon didn’t set out to revolutionize fuel cards; he was actually trying to solve his own frustration after his previous company’s delivery fleet experienced over $15,000 in fuel card fraud in a single month through old-school card skimming devices. The “eureka moment” came when he realized that the same SMS technology securing banking transactions could be applied to fuel card authentication, leading to Coast’s patent-pending security system that has now prevented millions in fraud for customers nationwide. What started as one entrepreneur’s personal vendetta against fuel card criminals has evolved into a platform that customers joke has made fuel card fraud as obsolete as flip phones, proving that sometimes the best business solutions come from founders who get personally annoyed enough by industry problems to build something completely different, and that in the fuel card industry where innovation has moved at the speed of molasses for decades, sometimes it takes an outsider with fintech experience and a healthy dose of righteous indignation to show everyone what is actually possible when you combine modern technology with old-fashioned customer service excellence.
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