Diesel Fuel Transfer Tank: Selection, Installation, and Safety Guide

Introduction

A diesel fuel transfer tank is an essential piece of equipment for farmers, contractors, truck drivers, and anyone who needs to safely transport diesel fuel from one location to another. Designed to store and dispense fuel efficiently, these tanks are commonly mounted in truck beds or on trailers, making them a reliable solution for on-the-go fueling of vehicles, generators, and heavy machinery.

This guide will walk you through the types, materials, selection criteria, installation practices, and safety tips for diesel fuel transfer tanks.

1. What Is a Diesel Fuel Transfer Tank?

A diesel fuel transfer tank is a portable or semi-permanent storage container equipped to safely transport diesel fuel. It’s typically paired with a fuel transfer pump, hose, and nozzle to quickly refuel other tanks or equipment.

Note: By law, transfer tanks for diesel are subject to specific DOT (Department of Transportation) and EPA regulations to ensure safe transportation.

2. Types of Diesel Fuel Transfer Tanks

2.1 Standard Transfer Tanks

• Basic tanks designed for transporting and manually dispensing diesel fuel

• Usually rectangular or L-shaped for optimal truck bed space usage

2.2 Combo Transfer Tanks

• Include a diesel fuel compartment plus a toolbox for storing tools and accessories

• Ideal for contractors and service technicians

2.3 Auxiliary Transfer Tanks

• Can be plumbed into your truck’s main fuel system to automatically refill the primary tank

• Great for long-haul operations where downtime is costly

3. Materials and Construction

4. Choosing the Right Diesel Fuel Transfer Tank

When selecting a tank, evaluate:

• Capacity Needs: Common sizes range from 40 to 100+ gallons

• Regulatory Compliance: Must meet DOT and EPA standards

• Truck Bed Size: Ensure fitment without reducing usability

• Fuel Dispensing Method: Manual pump, electric pump, or gravity feed

5. Installation Guidelines

• Use heavy-duty mounting brackets or straps to secure the tank

• Install an anti-siphon device to deter theft

• Ground the tank to prevent static electricity during fueling

• Position the pump for easy access without climbing into the truck bed

6. Maintenance and Safety

• Inspect weekly for leaks, dents, or corrosion

• Keep pumps, hoses, and nozzles clean to avoid contamination

• Store tanks away from heat sources when not in use

• Always follow hazardous material transport regulations

7. Common Uses

• Refueling farm machinery in remote fields

• Powering construction equipment on job sites

• Supplying generators during outages

• Extending range for long-haul trucks

Conclusion

A diesel fuel transfer tank offers unmatched convenience for mobile refueling. By choosing the right size, material, and pump type—and ensuring proper installation and maintenance—you’ll have a reliable fueling solution that improves productivity, reduces downtime, and enhances safety.