IFTA reporting is recordkeeping discipline. When distance and fuel data are clean, reporting becomes routine; when they are messy, every quarter becomes a scramble.
At a minimum, you need accurate distance by jurisdiction and fuel purchase records. The biggest mistakes come from missing trips, inconsistent odometer data, or incomplete fuel receipts.
Standardize data capture: consistent trip logs, reliable location sources, and a process to reconcile discrepancies before the quarter closes.
Be audit-ready by default. Keep records organized, time-stamped, and retrievable. An audit is much easier when you can explain how the data is produced.
If you use ELD/telematics or a TMS, make sure you understand how distance is calculated and how edits are tracked. “Black box” numbers are risky in audits.
This is not tax advice—confirm reporting requirements with your IFTA/finance specialist and keep up with jurisdiction changes.