Red vs White Diesel: What’s The Difference?

If you own a diesel car or operate a large piece of machinery like a tractor, dumper truck, or steamroller, then you’re probably aware of the two major types of diesel available to British consumers: red diesel, and white diesel. But most don’t know what makes red and white diesel distinct and the differences between the two. So if you’re curious about what makes red diesel red and white diesel white, check out our explanation below!

379658435 981983616240734 7031180989492873056 n

There’s no real difference
As short as it was, there’s our explanation! It may be shocking to learn that red diesel is simply white diesel that has been dyed red, and chemically it is nearly identical to standard white diesel. Red diesel does contain slightly higher levels of sulphur due to the addition of the dye, but this makes no difference in the use of the diesel or the operation of the machinery it is used in. In short: there is no difference between white and red diesel, only the colour.

So, why are red and white diesel different?
The above section may be slightly misleading, because there is indeed a significant difference between red and white diesel: how much they’re taxed! That’s right, red diesel is only legally allowed to be used for offroad machinery and, as such, it is taxed at a much lower rate. The red dye in the diesel serves only to identify it as diesel earmarked for use in construction, electricity generators, and other off-road usages. Meanwhile, vehicle owners are forced to pay a much higher rate of tax for their diesel, even though it is the same. The red dye added also stains the inside of engines when used, making it easy for the police to identify engines that have illegally used red diesel!

Is this situation here to stay?
As of November 2020, red diesel users pay 11.14 pence per litre in tax, while white diesel users pay a huge 57.95 pence per litre. This means that red diesel buyers are effectively getting an 81% discount on their fuel duty! This situation is looking likely to change soon, though, as the UK government have announced an end to their freeze on red diesel duty at the start of the next tax year in April 2022, with many industries being removed from the list of those permitted to use red diesel too.

Komatsu excavator model PC240LC-11 positioned on a grassy landscape with sunlight behind it.

White Diesel Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

White Diesel (Road Diesel) continues to be essential for fleets, haulage, commercial vehicles and many industrial sites. Prices are currently averaging around 109ppl, although this figure can change daily depending on market conditions and delivery volumes. To get an...

Tractor working in a field, collecting hay bales under a cloudy sky.

Red Diesel Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

Red Diesel remains the preferred fuel for agriculture and other approved sectors. Prices are stable, with the current average price around 68ppl. However, this figure can vary depending on location, delivery size and market conditions, so it should only be used as a...

Green fuel delivery vehicle from Compass navigating a snowy garden path surrounded by hedges.

Heating Oil Prices UK

Dec 9, 2025

Heating oil prices in the UK have remained competitive throughout the colder months. Most homes and businesses are seeing prices within an average range of 61ppl to 71ppl, although the exact cost can change daily based on supply, demand and delivery location. Because...

Fuel Monitor Payment Plan

Get Your Fuel Price

Select Home Heating Oil to place an online order right away, or choose your sector to get a rapid fuel quote



Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.