Diesel transfer systems are the lifeblood of industries that rely on heavy machinery, fleet vehicles, or remote operations. Whether you’re refuelling excavators on-site or managing fuel storage for a transport yard, a reliable diesel transfer setup ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance.
This guide explores the key types of diesel transfer systems — from compact electric pumps and portable pods to large-scale self-bunded fuel tanks — and how to choose the right configuration for your business.
A diesel transfer system allows fuel to move safely from storage tanks or containers into machinery, vehicles, or portable tanks. The system can be as simple as a hand pump or as advanced as an automated, high-flow unit integrated with digital flow meters and filtration.
The right configuration depends on:
- Where you refuel — workshop, depot, or remote site
- How much diesel you handle daily
- How portable your setup needs to be
Choosing correctly ensures you maintain safety standards, minimise waste, and maximise uptime.
2. Diesel Transfer Pumps: The Core of Every System
The diesel transfer pump is the heart of your fuel system. These pumps move diesel from storage into machinery quickly and safely. They can be manual, electric, or 12V battery-powered, depending on where and how often refuelling occurs.
-
Electric Diesel Transfer Pumps are ideal for fixed locations such as workshops or depots. They provide strong, steady flow rates (typically 40–80L/min) and can be paired with hose reels and meters for accurate refuelling.
-
12V Diesel Pumps are perfect for field work. They connect directly to a vehicle battery and offer fast, reliable refuelling on the go.
-
High-flow pumps are available for bulk operations or large tanks, capable of moving hundreds of litres per minute.
When selecting a diesel transfer pump, look for self-priming, anti-siphon, and thermal protection features to ensure longevity and safety in tough Australian conditions.
3. Portable Diesel Fuel Pods and Trailers
For mobile operations, diesel fuel pods and trailers are the most convenient solution.
-
Fuel pods are compact, transportable tanks (commonly between 200L and 1,000L) designed for easy lifting and quick deployment. Their durable polyethylene or steel construction ensures safe handling even over rough terrain.
-
Diesel fuel trailers take that convenience further, allowing larger capacities (1,000–3,000L or more) to be moved safely between sites. They are equipped with electric pumps, hoses, nozzles, and flow meters — creating a complete mobile refuelling system.
Portable units are widely used in agriculture, construction, and civil works, where equipment can’t easily return to a fixed refuelling station.
A self-bunded fuel tank is a tank-within-a-tank system designed to safely store diesel without requiring external bunding. The inner tank holds the fuel, while the outer layer captures any potential leaks or spills. This double-walled design makes it the safest and most compliant storage method for large fuel volumes.
Key advantages:
-
Environmental compliance: Meets Australian AS1940 standards for fuel storage.
-
Safety: Minimises spill risk and reduces fire hazards.
-
Durability: Built from heavy-duty steel, suitable for permanent or semi-permanent installations.
-
Capacity options: Ranging from 1,000L up to 110,000L, depending on site needs.
These tanks are ideal for transport depots, mines, quarries, and agricultural enterprises that require high-volume, stationary fuel storage. Many come with integrated transfer pumps, filtration, and dispensing cabinets for a complete refuelling solution.
A diesel tank with pump provides a turnkey solution for workshops and fleets. These systems combine storage and transfer in one unit — typically including an electric or 12V pump, delivery hose, nozzle, and meter.
They’re perfect for businesses that want a compliant setup without building a full fuel station. Depending on your space and refuelling frequency, tanks range from small portable units to fixed steel bunded tanks with automatic shut-off systems.
When selecting, consider:
- Flow rate (L/min)
- Hose length
- Power source (240V, 12V, or air)
- Compliance certification
- Maintenance access and filtration options
6. Electric Fuel Pumps for Jerry Cans: Compact Mobility
Not every job needs bulk refuelling. For smaller-scale work or tight spaces, an electric fuel pump for jerry cans provides quick, safe transfer without manual effort. These compact pumps often clip directly onto standard jerry cans and run off a vehicle’s 12V outlet.
They’re ideal for:
- Filling generators or small plant equipment
- Refuelling in restricted areas
- Emergency fuel transfer tasks
These pumps deliver efficiency, reduce spillage, and eliminate the strain of manual pouring — a must-have for service vehicles and field crews.
7. Safety and Compliance Considerations
Diesel is classified as a combustible liquid, so safe storage and transfer are governed by strict Australian regulations. Always ensure:
- Equipment meets AS1940 standards for storage and handling.
- Tanks are installed on stable, fire-safe foundations.
- Pumps include thermal overload protection and anti-siphon valves.
- Operators receive training on refuelling procedures and spill response.
Routine inspection of hoses, seals, and grounding connections helps prevent accidents and prolongs system life. Incorporating fuel filtration ensures clean diesel delivery and reduces engine wear.
8. Choosing the Right Diesel Transfer System for Your Operation
When deciding which diesel transfer setup suits your needs, consider:
- Mobility: Do you refuel on-site or in the field?
- Volume: How much diesel do you transfer daily or weekly?
- Space: Do you have room for a permanent tank or only portable options?
- Regulations: Are you meeting environmental containment standards?
For example:
- A construction crew may rely on 12V fuel pods and trailers for mobility.
- A fleet depot benefits from a 10,000L self-bunded tank with an electric pump.
- A farm or small business might use a 200L tank with a 12V pump for occasional refuelling.
- Matching the system to your operation ensures smooth, compliant, and cost-effective fuel management.
Diesel transfer systems are critical to the smooth running of industries across Australia. From portable diesel fuel pods and trailers to robust self-bunded tanks, every setup has a role to play in maintaining operational efficiency and safety.
Choosing the right combination of diesel transfer pump, tank, and delivery equipment not only simplifies refuelling but also ensures compliance and environmental responsibility.
Aflo’s range of diesel transfer solutions — from compact electric pumps to industrial self-bunded storage systems — offers reliable, Australian-compliant options for every level of operation.