Will Movers Move a Propane Tank?

Hazardous materials sometimes need to be moved. It’s not an ideal situation by any means, so it’s imperative you take it seriously.

Some of the most scrutinized hazardous materials include wine collections, first aid kits, aerosol spray cans, certain types of battery-powered equipment, and pesticides. Even perishable food items may be refused! Will movers move a propane tank?

This is a tricky question that needs a little more context.

Let’s take a look at what movers will or won’t move, including the ever-popular (and dangerous) propane tank.

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Which Hazardous Materials Will Movers Not Move and Why?

It’s frustrating when a mover tells you they won’t move your materials, but there’s a good reason for it. Just one accident can set them back many thousands of dollars. Even worse, you could put someone in danger.

Large trucks account for at least 10% of all fatal accidents. This number has increased by nearly 50% over the past several years. It’s not surprising why movers are so committed to playing it safe! While hazardous materials can see exceptions depending on the state and the reason for moving, exceptions are very few and far between.

Before we look at the propane tank, let’s look at a few commonly rejected items:

Aerosol Cans

It doesn’t matter if it’s a can of hairspray or a can of paint varnish. Aerosol cans are considered a hazardous material because of their ability to burst into flame.

The chemicals and the pressure inside the cans make them ticking time bombs at the best of times, so ditch these before moving. Since they’re also hazardous to the environment, ensure they’re disposed of properly at a recycling facility.

Nail Polish And Nail Polish Remover

Are you a big fan of make-up? You’ll need to dispose of your nail polish remover before you move safely. This is one of the most flammable materials around, never mind the noxious smell.

Pesticides and Herbicides

“I can understand aerosol cans being a hazard, but gardening materials seem completely different!”, you might be thinking. Sadly, movers with green thumbs are probably going to have to re-buy materials.

Pesticides and herbicides need to be kept away from other items. Their ability to cross-contaminate is more than just annoying: these substances have been closely linked to serious health risks. These chemicals can seriously harm both animals and humans, so leave these off your to-move list.

Plants

Not moving plants also comes as a surprise to many. It makes perfect sense when you think about it: you don’t want to accidentally introduce an unwelcome plant or insect species to a new state.

This doesn’t mean you can’t move plants locally. It’s highly recommended you wrap them carefully to avoid them being damaged during transport. If you want to bring your plant long-distance, do some research to see which plant species are allowed in each state.

Antiques

This is a very gray point for many moving companies. While they’re well-aware, you’re seeking out their expertise to help with fragile items. Antiques are sometimes too much trouble.

Common antiques and knick-knacks movers prefer not to touch include:

• Old paintings
• Framed photos
• Expensive jewelry
• Rare collections (such as stamps or wine bottles)
• Printed records

Some movers will still give you the option to put precious items under a valuation agreement. This means that you can pay a little money up front to cover these items in the event of being damaged or lost. Keep in mind that they will likely cover the item’s original value, not its sentimental value.

What Do I Do With My Propane Tank When I Move?

The quickest answer to this question? Dispose of it. Propane tanks are notoriously hazardous at the best of times, meaning the vast majority of movers don’t want to touch them.

There are hazardous waste facilities in your state that will take your propane tank and dispose of it safely. Do not leave your propane tank in the local dumpster or in your garage to expire. These are very dangerous when left unattended.

If you want to move a propane tank yourself across state lines, keep in mind it’s going to be an expensive and dangerous task.

How Do I Take a Propane Tank When Moving?

Your first step is to get a permit. Transporting a propane tank isn’t a casual stroll in the park: you need to prove you’re aware of the risk.

You should be able to obtain a propane tank permit from your local fire department. A permit will also come with an inspection to make sure the propane tank isn’t damaged. You might not require a permit for a very small propane tank (think less than 125 gallons), but it’s best to double-check. You don’t want to get in trouble!

Moving the propane tank should only be done locally and by car. It cannot, under any circumstance, be put into a truck or a freight carrier. This keeps it from rolling and jostling around, which can aggravate the sensitive chemicals inside and make it extra volatile in the event of a spill. When it comes down to it, transporting a propane tank is more trouble than it’s worth, especially when you consider the price of propane is relatively low.

You’re better off disposing of your propane tank at a designated hazardous waste facility and investing in a new one. Fortunately, propane tank businesses such as Blue Rhino will offer coupons for new tanks.

How Do I Store a Propane Tank?

When storing a propane tank, it’s imperative it’s not stored next to flammable materials. It should also not be placed next to any ventilation, hot or cool.

Make sure the propane tank isn’t attached to the grill when you’re not using it. You don’t want to risk it turning on for any reason while unattended.

Conclusion

Will movers move a propane tank? No. Can you? Yes.

“Should you move a propane tank?” is a better question.

Propane tanks are sometimes moved locally by car. This is still a massive health hazard and far too much trouble for what it’s worth. It’s best to dispose of a propane tank at a hazardous waste facility in your area and purchase a new one after the move. Some propane tank businesses even offer rebates for former purchases, as long as you keep your receipt.