Over the past two weeks, heating-oil prices in the UK have risen sharply due to increases in global oil and kerosene wholesale prices linked to the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Much of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, so heightened tensions have created uncertainty in global energy markets, pushing prices higher.
Heating oil is priced based on the current wholesale cost of replacing the fuel, rather than the historic price of oil already in storage. As wholesale kerosene prices have risen rapidly, these increases have moved through the supply chain to distributors and ultimately to customers.
We know many customers are concerned about recent heating-oil price increases and how they may affect existing orders. To provide clarity, we’ve answered some of the most common questions below.
Why Are Prices Changing So Quickly for Customers?
As a distributor, we typically hold only one or two days’ stock of heating oil. NWF Fuels and our family of brands are therefore exposed to the same market price increases as our customers.
Due to the current situation in the Middle East, the global price of aviation fuel — which is the same fuel used as heating oil in the UK — has risen faster than both crude oil and petrol or diesel. NWF Fuels and our family of brands are committed to treating customers fairly and will review whether any refunds may be due.
Why Your Order Doesn’t Have a Fixed Price Yet
Rapid and significant fluctuations in oil prices mean we cannot set a fixed pence per litre at the time of ordering. Pricing shortly before delivery allows us to provide the most accurate and fair price.
To avoid overcharging, we take your order now so our routing team can plan deliveries. Before your fuel is delivered, we’ll contact you with the latest price and total cost. You can then:
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Approve the order before payment is taken
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Cancel the order if needed
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Adjust the delivery quantity
This ensures you get the most accurate price without delaying your delivery.
What is the Minimum Quantity I Can Order?
Our minimum order is 500 litres, which helps us manage deliveries efficiently and keep prices fair for all customers.
Will My Order Be Cancelled?
Every order made directly with NWF Fuels and our child brands will be honoured. Our temporary pricing approach allows us to provide accurate, up-to-date heating oil prices, so there’s no need to cancel orders or artificially increase prices.
What Are My Payment and Ordering Options?
During the current Iran crisis, with highly volatile oil prices, customers not on a contract are asked to make a pre-authorised payment of £1.50 per litre to secure their order. This will be updated before delivery, and we’ll contact you for approval before the payment is finalised.
We also offer a range of flexible payment and ordering options, including contract services, automated ordering, monthly payment plans, and more, designed to suit different customer needs.
[Find more information and enquire about our heating services here.]
How is the UK Government Responding to the Crisis?
The UK Government, via Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement, has confirmed £53 million in support for the most vulnerable households using heating oil. The package is aimed at helping those hit hardest by recent global price increases linked to the Middle East conflict.
Full details on eligibility and how to apply will be published as the scheme is rolled out.
We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to keep our customers informed. This includes providing updates on heating oil prices, delivery arrangements, and any further information about financial support and eligibility for vulnerable households.