How to Safely Fill and Transport Gasoline Using a Gas Can

While using a gas can to fill the fuel tank on a vehicle or boat is a fairly straightforward process, there are a few key elements to keep in mind to safely fill and transport gasoline. It all starts with selecting the right gas can with a flexible spout.

Choosing Your Gas Can

There are several different styles of gas cans made from metal or plastic materials. It’s often asked which can is better, but it’s a matter of preference. Both materials are great for storing and transporting gasoline. Metal gas cans are longer lasting, but plastic gas cans are less expensive and lighter in weight.

When selecting a gas can, you will want to pick a size that fits your gasoline needs. A larger gas can that is four gallons or more is perfect when you are filling up larger items such as trucks, boats, RVs, off-road vehicles, etc. A smaller one- or two-gallon can is ideal when you use gasoline at home to fill up your lawnmower, weedeater, generator, etc.

Next, select the type. You will discover Type I and Type II gas cans. Type I gas cans have a single opening for filling and pouring. Type II gas cans fill from a separate opening, which may double as a vent.

Because gasoline is highly flammable, you should never use items such as milk jugs or glass containers to store or transport gasoline.

Choosing the Right Fill Spout

Most gas cans come with a plastic fill spout to help with filling up. The spouts, if made from hard plastic material, can be difficult to use when pouring at an angle because they are not bendable.

The best solution to this problem is to upgrade to a flexible spout that replaces the spout that came with your gas can. This type of spout is highly bendable, making it easier to pour and reducing the risks of spilling gasoline. A high-quality spout also won’t crack or break with repeated use and can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees.

Steps on How to Fill Up a Gas Can Safely

• Step 1: When you arrive at the gas station, touch the outside of your vehicle to discharge static electricity before removing the gas can from your vehicle.
• Step 2: Place the gas can on a flat surface outside your vehicle.
• Step 3: Remove the spout and unscrew the vent cap, if applicable.  
• Step 4: Insert the fuel pump nozzle into the can.
• Step 5: Turn on the pump and fill to the fill line. If the can does not have a fill line, only fill the can up 95% full—never to the top.
• Step 6: Turn off the fuel pump and carefully remove the fuel pump nozzle.
• Step 7: Replace the spout and vent cap, if applicable, and seal tightly. 

Steps on How to Transport a Fuel Container

• Step 1: Verify the spout and vent cap, if applicable, are secure and tight.
• Step 2: Place the gas can on a flat surface in the truck bed.
• Step 3: Secure the gas can in place so that it cannot move around or tip over.
• Step 4: Before removing the gas can, discharge static electricity by touching the outside of your vehicle.

Other Gas Can Filling and Transporting Tips

1. Always use the designated container type for flammable liquids. Gasoline cans are red, diesel cans are yellow, and kerosene cans are blue.
2. Never store a gas can inside your vehicle or the trunk.
3. Never transport a faulty or leaking container.

You can avoid accidental spills, fumes, and potential fire hazards by always using these steps and tips.

To find the right universal flex nozzles for your gas cans, please feel free to explore our selection online or contact Ai13 Billet Products at (801) 203-0389 for further information or assistance today! All Ai13 products are proudly made in the U.S.A.