Book-Ease has introduced a new pay-at-the-pump policy, and some fans of the beaver-filled travel center aren’t thrilled.
According to a Buc-ee statement obtained by USA TODAY, the new policy will require consumers paying for gas to pay with credit and debit cards at the pump, with customers no longer allowed to pay with cards inside stores. Only gift cards (through April 1, 2027) and cash are accepted in store for prepaid gas purchases.
Previously, Buc-ee customers could prepay with bank card (debit or credit), cash or gift card inside chain locations.
When did Book-Ease change their pay at the pump policy?
Buc-ee declined to provide additional information about when the new policy was set, but reports from customers and media outlets indicate it was implemented around March 1.
Why did Buc-Ease change its pay at the pump policy?
Buc-ee’s declined to comment on why the new pay-at-the-pump policy was introduced.
What are Buc-ee customers saying?
The new policy is dividing customers. Some are hopeful this will speed up in-store transactions, but others are concerned about pre-authorization holds on credit and debit cards when paying at the gas pump.
Gas stations place these restrictions on cards when paying at the pump to protect themselves from fraud. AARP explained in a blog post that merchants don’t know how much customers will spend on gas and want to make sure there is enough credit to cover it. Pre-authorization amounts can range from $1 to $100.
On its website, Buc-ee’s provides the following example: If a pump is authorized for $100 and $40 of gas is pumped, there will be a $40 fee and a $10 hold, which can last up to 72 hours.
Others also aren’t sure how the policy will streamline the experience.
“How does this stop people from blocking the pump?” A Reddit user commented in a thread about the new policy. “Even if you pay with cash inside, you now have to make two transactions – one for food/other items and one for gas.”
Greta Cross is a national trends reporter at USA TODAY.