Transporting Empty Propane Tank?

Pretty near harmless when empty.

KD4UPL wrote:
Are we missing something? Why do you want to transport it empty?

I assume to take it somewhere to get it filled.

Are we missing something? Why do you want to transport it empty?

You should take the same precautions that your RV is already outfitted to handle:

1. Transport the cylinder upright (whatever that may be for your particular cylinder).
2. The transport means or compartment should be open to the bottom or at least fully at the side.

:)
Lynn

Dakota98 wrote:

Vet Man wrote:
They fit well inside plastic milk crate, if it is a 20lb

x - 2

X3.
As will a 30# tank.

Like coolmom said. A single empty cylinder isn't big deal I terms of volume. TDG regulations allow for volumes for personal use. A single cylinder is well below any requirement for TDG transport.

For your own protection, it is best to secure the cylinder in an open area (in case of venting).

For the 20 pound bottles (and others of like diameter), you can get plastic carrier trays at places like Walmart that they fit in, with loops to attach bungees or ropes. That's one convenient way to keep them from rolling or rattling around.

You don't want to open the tank to vent every last bit of propane out unless you want to also vacuum purge the air you allow in doing so every time you refill it.

DOT regulations apply only to commercial carriers/shippers. Otherwise you would never be able to travel with one on an RV, without being certified as a Hazmat carrier. Personal use is strictly up to your common sense.

Just secure it so it doesn't roll around.

BTW the 20/30 lb round things are technically "cylinders". Other shapes such as those built under motorhomes are "tanks." The only way to guarantee they are free of propane is to remove the valves. Don't think about flushing one with compressed air, a risky combo with a flammable.

I'm a hazmat shipping instructor, know way more about this stuff than I ever really expected to.

With the price of propane I never empty one. But I have never given the possibility of regulations against it a thought, maybe I should.

Why transport empty, are there some sort of regs or rules?