Propane tanks have a variety of uses, including grills, fire pits and pool heating. Whatever your reason for needing a new propane tank, taking precautions and following proper safety tips when transporting it ensures you safely bring the tank to your destination.
1. Note Transport Limits
Before you pick up propane tanks, determine how many you can haul. Enclosed vehicles, like cars or SUVs, can carry up to four tanks. However, one cylinder should only hold up to 45 pounds, and you can’t carry more than 90 pounds. In pickup trucks or trailers, you can haul up to 1,000 pounds of propane.
2. Keep the Tanks in the Trunk or Truck Bed
It is safe to transport propane tanks in a car, truck or trailer. If you use a car, carry the tank in the trunk or back seat. In a truck, use the bed to haul tanks. Whichever area you use, ensure it is well-ventilated and has sufficient room for the propane tank.
3. Load Tanks Carefully
When you get new propane tanks, take care during loading. For larger tanks, seek help from another person. Ensure the tanks fit in your trunk or other areas and that the surroundings are clear of sharp objects that could puncture the cylinder.
4. Secure the Tank Properly
When hauling a propane tank, secure it upright in your car. Never transport a propane tank on its side.
You might use a tank stabilizer or materials like rope, twine or ratchet straps to hold your tank. Use strong anchor points like the trunk wall to keep it from shifting in the vehicle. After you attach the tank, check that the cylinder valve is closed and seal it with a plug if required.
5. Don’t Smoke During Transport
Avoid smoking when carrying propane tanks until you reach your destination and unload the cylinder. Flames or embers can create hazards when working with fuel, so you should wait to smoke until you are away from the propane tank.
6. Don’t Travel With a Propane Tank or Leave It in a Vehicle
You don’t want a propane tank to get too hot inside a vehicle, so make propane tank pickup the last item on your to-do list before you return home. Once you have the propane tank, don’t travel with it in your car to run other errands. Go right to your destination and remove the cylinder from your car as soon as you arrive.
Visit Our Propane Refuel Stations
When you need to refill or exchange your propane cylinder, turn to Foster Fuels. We have six propane refueling stations in Central Virginia, and our trained staff members safely handle your cylinders. Contact us today to learn more about Foster Fuels or safe propane transport.
