In contrast to small food distributors, large grocery store firms and food distributors use larger trucks, with a more diverse truck fleet that travels longer distances, travels more highway miles than local street miles, and travels a larger variety of routes. Smaller food distributors use smaller trucks that travel shorter routes and mostly in urban areas, with less highway driving. Both types of food distribution firms place importance on reducing fuel use and emissions. However, their differences in operating characteristics influence their experiences with and ability to use natural gas vehicles. This information is important to policy makers in devising new alternative fuel policies and programs.