How to Safely Transport a Propane Tank

For many homeowners, summer means more cookouts, more backyard time, and more trips to refill the grill tank. Portable propane cylinders are built to high safety standards and following a few straightforward propane safety tips makes handling your propane grill cylinder simple and worry-free.

Whether you are picking up a refill on the way home from work or stocking up before a weekend gathering, knowing how to store and transport a propane tank the right way helps keep your routine running smoothly. This guide walks you through everything you need to know:

• How and Where to Store a Propane Tank – Storage dos and don’ts for portable cylinders, plus a summer-specific tip.
• How to Transport a Propane Tank Safely – Practical steps for getting your tank to and from a refill location.
• Where to Refill Your Propane Tank – Find a refill location at a participating Ferrellgas location or exchange your tank at a Blue Rhino retailer.

How and Where to Store a Propane Tank

Where you keep your propane tank between uses matters as much as how you handle it.  

The Dos of Propane Tank Storage 

A few simple habits help your tank stay in good working condition and ready to use when you need it. 

• Remember to place your tank on a flat, stable surface to help prevent tipping or rolling. 
• Always use and store tanks outdoors in a well-ventilated area where fresh air can circulate freely around the cylinder. 
• Shield your tank from direct sunlight and extreme weather to help prevent temperature-related pressure changes. 
• Keep at least 10 feet away from flammable materials such as gasoline, paint thinners, or other combustibles. 
• Remember to close the tank valve when your grill is not in use and follow your grill manufacturer's guidelines for proper shutdown.  
• If using a Blue Rhino tank, ensure you read, understand, and follow the instructions for safe use on the tank sleeve. 

The Don’ts of Propane Tank Storage  

Outdoor, well-ventilated storage matters because if a valve is not fully closed, vapors can collect in an enclosed space.

• Never store cylinders directly on wet ground or in areas where standing water may cause rust or corrosion. 
• Never store cylinders in enclosed or low-ventilated spaces including garages, sheds, basements, or storage units. 
• Never store cylinders in direct sunlight, near heat sources or open flames, or in areas that collect excessive moisture. 

Following these guidelines aligns with Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) safety guidance and helps keep your home and family protected. For more information, visit our propane safety resources page.

Storing Your Tank Through the Summer 

Hot months call for a little extra attention to where you keep your cylinder. Warm temperatures and direct sunlight can increase the pressure inside a propane tank, which is exactly why shaded outdoor storage is a smart best practice during summer. 

A spot in the shade that still has good airflow is ideal. Avoid placing your tank against a south-facing wall, on hot pavement, or anywhere it will sit in full sun for extended stretches. Keeping the cylinder in a shaded, well-ventilated area helps reduce unnecessary heat exposure during the summer months. 

How to Transport a Propane Tank Safely

Heading to a refill location? Whether you are running a quick errand or planning ahead for a weekend gathering, transporting a propane tank safely comes down to a few practical steps.

• Position the cylinder upright in a stable location where it is unlikely to tip or shift during transport. Use tie-downs or straps if available for added security. Cylinder stabilizer products are also available as an optional added measure if you find yourself transporting tanks regularly.
• Avoid carrying cylinders in the passenger area when possible. If inside the passenger area is your only option, keep propane tanks on the floor near an open window.
• Do not smoke or vape while transporting a propane cylinder. Drive directly to your destination, then remove the cylinder from the vehicle promptly and move it to a safe outdoor storage area.
• The number of cylinders that can be transported in an enclosed vehicle is limited in the U.S. to no more than four 20-lb cylinders.
• Never transport a cylinder if you smell gas or suspect a leak.

Where to Refill Your Propane Tank

When it is time to top off your portable cylinder, you have options. Searching for "propane refills near me" is an easy place to start, but here are the two most convenient ways to get your tank ready for your next cookout.

• Refill at a participating Ferrellgas location. As an established propane supplier and propane company with locations nationwide, Ferrellgas makes it easy to keep your grill fueled all summer long. To find a refill spot near you, visit our locations page and filter for Grill/RV Cylinder Service.
• Exchange at a Blue Rhino retailer. If a Ferrellgas refill location is not nearby, Blue Rhino tank exchange is a quick and convenient alternative. With thousands of retail locations across the country, you can drop off your empty cylinder and pick up a fresh tank in just a few minutes. Use the Blue Rhino propane finder to locate a participating retailer near you.