Understanding Hazardous Material Regulations for Fuel Transporters

When it comes to transporting diesel fuel or other flammable liquids, many businesses assume they must comply with strict hazardous material (hazmat) regulations – often at a significant cost. But what if you could stay compliant, save money, and potentially avoid the need for drivers with hazardous material endorsements?

Here’s what you need to know about key hazmat exemptions:

The True Cost of Hazardous Material Compliance

Hiring a driver with a hazardous material (hazmat) endorsement involves more than just licensing, it includes costs for initial and recurring hazmat training, registration, placarding, and additional insurance considerations. For companies transporting diesel to job sites to fuel equipment or machinery, these recurring expenses can add up quickly.

But here’s the good news: not all diesel transport operations require full compliance with hazmat regulations.

Key Exemptions You Shouldn’t Overlook

Understanding federal regulations is critical for risk management and cost control. Two key exemptions you should be aware of include:

49 CFR Part 171.8

Non-bulk packaging refers to packaging that has:

(1) A maximum capacity of 450 L (119 gallons) or less as a receptacle for a liquid.

49 CFR 173.150(f)

(f) Combustible liquids.

(1) A flammable liquid with a flashpoint at or above 38 °C (100 °F) that does not meet the definition of any other hazard class may be reclassified as a combustible liquid. This provision does not apply to transportation by vessel or aircraft, except where other means of transportation is impracticable.

(2) The requirements in this subchapter do not apply to a material classified as a combustible liquid in non-bulk packaging unless it is a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, or marine pollutant.

Compliance Without the Hazmat Burden

Innovative equipment manufacturers now offer modular fuel tanks specifically designed to help companies stay within exemption limits. These portable fuel systems divide diesel into multiple tanks, each under the 119-gallon threshold, making it possible to avoid hazmat placarding and potentially eliminate the need for drivers with hazmat or tank endorsements.

Some models even provide the flexibility to transport DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) alongside diesel fuel. By leveraging these solutions, your business can:

• Lower insurance and training costs
• Streamline compliance processes
• Reduce regulatory exposure
• Maintain operational flexibility

Are You Taking Advantage of These Exemptions?

If your company transports fuel and hasn’t explored these exemptions, you could be missing out on cost savings and compliance efficiencies. Our DOT compliance specialists are here to help assess your current operations and identify opportunities to optimize your transportation practices.

Contact our team today to learn how we can help you stay compliant without unnecessary overhead.