As of mid-March 2026, the global energy landscape is facing its most significant challenge in decades. With the ongoing conflict in Iran reaching a fever pitch, the traditional rules of the fuel trade have been rewritten overnight. The Strait of Hormuz: a vital artery that typically handles 20% of the world's oil: has seen daily tanker traffic drop from 138 vessels to a staggering low of just two ships this month.
For any serious fuel buyer, this isn't just a logistical headache; it is a direct threat to operational survival. Brent crude has surged past $100 per barrel, and European natural gas prices have spiked by over 50% following recent production shutdowns. In this climate of extreme volatility and regional instability, the margin for error in procurement is zero.
At Van Dyke Energy, we are seeing a recurring pattern of errors from organizations attempting to navigate these waters. Whether you are sourcing EN590, Jet Fuel A1, or D6, these are the seven most critical mistakes being made right now: and how you can fix them to ensure your energy resilience.
1. Relying on "Business as Usual" Shipping Routes
The most glaring mistake is the assumption that traditional logistics channels remain viable. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively neutralized, the cost of moving refined fuels has skyrocketed due to "conflict surcharges" and the necessity of longer, alternative routes.
The Fix: You must prioritize partners with established logistics expertise who can navigate around geopolitical bottlenecks. Van Dyke Energy leverages a global network that bypasses high-risk zones, utilizing diversified discharge ports and multimodal transport strategies to keep EN590 and Jet Fuel A1 flowing. Do not wait for the Strait to reopen; secure your supply chain through Mediterranean or Atlantic-based hubs now.
2. Ignoring the Reality of Force Majeure
The recent drone strikes on Qatar’s Ras Laffan facilities and subsequent force majeure declarations by major exporters have proven that even the most stable contracts can vanish in an instant. Many buyers are currently holding worthless pieces of paper because they didn't account for the regional "domino effect" of the Iran conflict.
The Fix: Diversify your seller portfolio immediately. Relying on a single source in the Middle East is no longer a viable strategy. Explore our buyers' resources to understand how to qualify multiple vetted sellers across different geographic regions to mitigate the risk of local shutdowns.
3. Skipping Enhanced Due Diligence and Compliance
In a high-price, low-supply environment, "tainted" fuel often enters the market. The Iran conflict increases the risk of sanctioned product being laundered through secondary markets. A failure to perform rigorous compliance checks can lead to massive fines, seized shipments, and permanent reputational damage.
The Fix: Stick to a vetted network. At Van Dyke Energy, we prioritize transparency and strict adherence to international trade laws. Every drop of D6 or EN590 we facilitate is backed by verified origins and rigorous inspection standards. If a deal looks too good to be true during a global conflict, it is almost certainly a compliance trap.
4. Hesitation in the Face of Price Volatility
We are seeing many fuel buyers paralyzed by the 60% surge in crude prices. They are waiting for a "dip" that may not come for months. In the energy sector, "wait and see" often results in "wait and fail." As of March 9, Brent reached $100, and with supply lines tightening, the upward pressure remains relentless.
The Fix: Shift from a spot-market mindset to a long-term energy resilience strategy. Locking in volumes now: even at current premiums: is often cheaper than facing a total supply out-of-stock situation next month. Use professional procurement structures to hedge your risk.
5. Neglecting Proof of Product (PoP) Verification
The chaos of war provides the perfect cover for scammers and "ghost" fuel providers. We have seen an uptick in fraudulent offers for Jet Fuel A1 where the seller claims the product is "diverted" or "held in secret storage" due to the conflict.
The Fix: Demand transparency. Never move forward without a verified Proof of Product. If you are unsure of the technical requirements, read our guide on what every fuel buyer should know about PoP. Real fuel moves through real refineries and real tanks, not just PDFs.
6. Using Unverified Intermediaries
The Iran conflict has brought out an army of "mandates" and "brokers" who claim to have "inside tracks" to discounted fuel. In 99% of cases, these intermediaries add zero value and 100% more risk. They often lack the financial standing or the direct refinery relationships needed to execute in a crisis.
The Fix: Work directly with established entities. Van Dyke Energy functions as a bridge between serious buyers and verified sellers. Our reputation is built on trust and the ability to execute when others cannot. Check our about page to see how our structured approach eliminates the middleman noise.
7. Failing to Utilize a Structured RFP Process
In a panic-buy environment, many organizations abandon their standard procurement protocols. They send informal emails or WhatsApp messages hoping to secure a cargo. This is a red flag to legitimate sellers who prioritize professional, structured requests.
The Fix: Professionalize your approach. A formal Request for Proposal (RFP) signals to the market that you are a serious, qualified buyer with the financial capacity to close. It ensures all technical specifications: from sulfur content in EN590 to the flash point of Jet Fuel A1: are clearly defined and met.
Why Energy Resilience Matters in 2026
The conflict in Iran is not just a regional dispute; it is a fundamental shift in how global energy is traded. The "just-in-time" delivery model for refined fuels has collapsed. Today, the winners are those who prioritize logistics expertise and vetted networks.
At Van Dyke Energy, we understand that our clients aren't just buying fuel; they are buying certainty. Whether you are seeking a reliable supply of D6 for industrial use or Jet Fuel A1 for aviation, our focus remains on moving refined products safely and compliantly through the world’s most challenging environments.
The Authoritative Path Forward
If you are currently struggling with canceled shipments, sudden price hikes, or unverified suppliers, it is time to reassess your procurement strategy. The mistakes listed above are common, but in the current geopolitical climate, they are also fatal to your bottom line.
Key Action Steps:
- Audit your current suppliers: Are they reliant on the Strait of Hormuz?
- Verify your PoP: Are you dealing with real fuel or paper promises?
- Formalize your process: Use a structured RFP to attract top-tier sellers.
- Consult the experts: Reach out to Van Dyke Energy to leverage our global logistics network.
The energy market of 2026 demands a higher level of sophistication. Don't let regional instability derail your operations. Build your strategy on a foundation of reliability and trust.
For more insights into the technicalities of fuel trade, read our post on why top 50 global banks matter in fuel trade to understand the financial security needed during times of conflict.
Mark Van Dyke
Sales Director, VanDykeEnergy.com
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