Increasing tensions in the Middle East have led to the average U.S. cost of diesel posting one its biggest weekly hikes in the past several years.

Figures released by the Energy Department show an increase of 9.4 cents from the week before to $3.081 per gallon for the week ending Sept.23. This is the fourth largest weekly jump since the beginning of 2012. All regions of the country saw an increase in prices, with the Midwest seeing the largest, an 11 cents increase, followed by the Lower Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions, each with a 9.7 cents increase.

While the average U.S. cost of diesel this week is 19 cents lower than it was the same time a year ago, there are increasing concerns this recent spike is putting a strain on trucking company profitability. Fortunately, PrePass can help you save money no matter how much diesel fuel prices may spike.

Having PrePass means qualified carriers no longer have to slow down, stop and idle while in line at truck inspection facilities. According to a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration calculation, trucks save an average of a half a gallon of fuel with each weigh station bypass they receive.

PrePass also is the only weigh station bypass service provider offering electronic toll payments. This means you save even more money as your trucks drive through toll booths. Stop sitting in lines wasting fuel, and start receiving discounts on the tolls you pay.

Contact PrePass today so your trucking operation can start saving money before fuel prices get any higher or see this video to learn how PrePass can save you money.