The answers to these FAQs can help those just getting started in the world of off-road diesel.
Off-road diesel, also called “red-dyed diesel,” is a popular fuel on construction sites and farms, but many business owners and working professionals still have questions. Using red-dyed diesel legally and in compliance with state regulations is critical; driving on public roads with this fuel in the tank can result in steep fines that far outweigh the fuel’s benefits. The answers to these FAQs can help those just getting started in the world of diesel. If you are looking for a reliable supplier of off-road diesel, ultra-low sulfur diesel, and other high-quality fuels, contact the experts at Howard Energy!
What is the Difference Between On-Road and Off-Road Diesel?
Functionally, off-road and on-road diesel are essentially the same. The key differences between the two fuels are that 1) off-road diesel is not subject to federal or state fuel excise taxes, and 2) off-road diesel is dyed a reddish-pink color. Tax-exempt status aside, these two fuel formulas are the same.
What Types of Vehicles and Equipment Can Use Off-Road Diesel?
Off-road diesel can only be used for certain types of equipment and vehicles that do not travel on public roads, city streets, and state highways. People often use this fuel for farm equipment like combines, harvesters, and tractors. Construction companies may also use red-dyed diesel for their bulldozers, graders, and excavators. Rules for dyed diesel use vary from state to state, with some local governments requiring prior authorization and a mountain of paperwork to allow consumers to purchase the fuel at all. If you are unsure which type of fuel to use, you may ask your fuel supplier.
What are the Consequences of Misusing Off-Road Diesel?
While red-dyed fuel is often significantly cheaper than the regular on-road version , the consequences for using it illegally can be dire. Law enforcement officers may use a visual inspection or UV light to detect dyed-red fuel if they suspect its use on a public road, and penalties for misusing off-road diesel can include fines of a thousand dollars or more.
Partner with Howard Energy, Inc. for Fuel Supply and Services
At Howard Energy, we fully understand how your business depends on a reliable and steady supply of gasoline and diesel fuel to keep your operations at its peak. As a family-owned, commercial full-service gas and diesel fuel supplier, Howard Energy has been serving companies across Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern VA for over 25 years.
Our team of experts has a thorough knowledge of the petroleum industry to devise commercial and retail fueling solutions. As a result, we use our keen insight to build strong partnerships with commercial trucking, construction, manufacturing companies, and more. Howard Energy is proud to bring our products and services to gas stations, car dealerships, marinas, and beyond.
If you need cost-effective and convenient wholesale fuel and related fuel tank storage or monitoring services, contact us to get started. Call us at 410-647-1500, and visit our website. Stay connected with Howard Energy on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.