What is a Fuel Trailer Used For?

A fuel trailer is a mobile refuelling unit designed to transport and dispense diesel, petrol, or other fuels directly to machinery, vehicles, or equipment on-site. Commonly used in agriculture, construction, civil works, and mining, fuel trailers eliminate the need to drive equipment to a central fueling location, improving operational efficiency.

Fuel trailers are available in a range of capacities—from small 200L units to heavy-duty 3,000L+ trailers—and may include electric pumps, reels, flow meters, and self-bunded tanks for added safety. In Australia, they are ideal for remote or off-grid environments where fuel access is limited.

How Do I Choose the Right Fuel Trailer?

Selecting the right fuel trailer depends on your operational needs, fuel type, and transport environment. Key factors to consider include:

1. Fuel Capacity: Choose a size that supports your daily refuelling requirements without excessive downtime or frequent refills.
2. Fuel Type: Ensure compatibility with diesel, petrol, AdBlue, or other fluids; some trailers are multi-compartment for dual-fuel use.
3. Self-Bunded or Single-Wall: Self-bunded trailers offer double-walled protection to prevent spills and meet most safety regulations.
4. Pump Type: Choose between 12V, 24V, 240V, or air-operated pumps depending on your power source availability.
5. Mobility Requirements: Consider off-road vs. highway-rated trailers based on the terrain you’ll operate in.
6. Compliance: Ensure the trailer meets Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code requirements if transporting over certain thresholds.

Working with a reputable supplier helps ensure your trailer is fit-for-purpose and ADR-compliant for Australian roads.

Are There Legal Requirements for Transporting Fuel Trailers in Australia?

Yes, fuel trailers in Australia are subject to strict legal requirements under national and state legislation. Here are the key regulations to be aware of:

1. Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code: If transporting over 450L of Class 3 flammable liquid (like petrol), you must comply with ADG requirements for signage, placarding, licensing, and vehicle specification.
2. Tank Certification: Trailers must have tanks that are approved for fuel transport, often built to meet AS 2809 or UN31A standards (for IBCs).
3. Tow Vehicle Requirements: The towing vehicle must have adequate capacity (GVM/GCM) and braking system compatibility.
4. Roadworthy & ADR Compliance: Fuel trailers must be ADR-compliant (Australian Design Rules) for registration, lighting, reflectors, and braking systems.
5. Driver Licensing: Depending on volume and classification, drivers may need a Dangerous Goods (DG) licence to legally transport fuel.
6. Spill and Safety Equipment: Legally required to carry fire extinguishers, spill kits, grounding equipment, and visible hazard labels.

Before purchasing or operating a fuel trailer, always check local regulations or consult the Aflo Team to ensure compliance with Work Health & Safety (WHS) and transport laws in Australia.