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The fuel prices in Spain have skyrocketed in recent months, reaching astronomical figures. We are facing a scenario similar to last year, 2022, only this time, we do not have any type of government aid to reduce the cost of filling the tank. Given this situation, many drivers are looking for options to pay less on each refill. This is where low-cost gas stations come into play, which can have each liter of fuel up to 20 cents cheaper than at other stations.
The problem we often encounter with cheap gas stations is that they are far away, so the trip might not be as profitable just to take away at most the capacity that our car’s tank holds.
At this point, you’ve surely thought about it at least once when you’ve found a gas station cheaper than usual. What if I could take more gasoline or diesel than fits in my tank? How much can I legally store in a jerry can? In this short article, we will answer these questions.
You only need an approved jerry can
One option to take advantage of the low prices of low-cost gas stations is to carry fuel-approved jerry cans and fill them in addition to the car’s tank. But not all containers are suitable for transporting gasoline and diesel safely and legally.
Since November 2017, gas stations in Spain can only sell fuel in approved jerry cans that meet certain safety requirements. This is because fuels are considered hazardous materials.
Approved jerry cans must have a label certifying that they comply with regulations. In addition, they carry a code indicating what material they are made of, the type of jerry can, and other important characteristics.
Using uncertified containers can cost you dearly
At first glance, you might think that if you are going to pump fuel at an unsupervised gas station, you could do it in any type of container, even a conventional plastic bottle. Well, we do not recommend this at all. Besides being extremely dangerous, it is completely illegal and can lead to severe consequences.
If the Police or the Civil Guard catch you loading gasoline or diesel into a non-approved bottle, you risk having the fuel confiscated, receiving a heavy fine, and even being charged with a crime against road safety, with amounts of up to 4,000 euros. It is not worth the risk to save a few euros. The same thing will happen to you if you are stopped at a checkpoint and the fuel is discovered in the trunk in unapproved containers.
Maximum amount of fuel in jerry cans for individuals
If you are going to fill approved jerry cans at a gas station, you should know the maximum amounts you can transport as an individual. The regulations establish different limits depending on whether the fuel is for domestic use or for a business.
For individuals, the permitted amount is up to 60 liters of gasoline per jerry can and 240 liters of diesel per jerry can. This means you can carry, for example, two 30-liter gasoline jerry cans or eight 30-liter diesel jerry cans in your car’s trunk.
The jerry cans you fill as an individual do not need to carry a label, but it is mandatory that they be approved to transport fuel safely. Nor is any type of documentation like a consignment note required when you buy the fuel.
Be careful when storing fuel
Of course, it makes no sense whatsoever to store fuel in an apartment building. It is only advisable to do so in rural homes and in safe locations. Furthermore, we only recommend doing this practice when you find very cheap fuel and there is an obvious forecast of future price increases. Likewise, it can be interesting if you have farm machinery and want to keep the fuel close to your vehicles and tools.
Here are some recommendations on where to safely store fuel purchased in jerry cans:
- It is best to keep the jerry cans in an outdoor location such as a garage, storage room, or shed, never inside the home.
- They must be in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from heat sources or flames. Direct sunlight can also affect fuel quality.
- Place them on an impermeable surface to prevent damage in the event of a spill or leak. The ideal is on tiles or cement, not on wood or other absorbent materials.
- Store them in an upright position and secure them so they cannot tip over. Put them on a stand or directly on the floor.
- It is recommended to use a ventilated metal cabinet to store the jerry cans safely under lock and key. This will prevent access by children or other people.
- Periodically check that the jerry cans show no leaks or deterioration. Label them correctly indicating that they contain flammable fuel.
- Be careful when handling them and prevent them from receiving heavy blows. Use gloves and appropriate protection.
A solution that will allow you to “squeeze” low-cost stations
Although the law leaves room for you to buy a good amount of fuel as an individual, knowing this can help us save a few euros during times of price hikes.
Carrying an empty 20 or 30-liter jerry can in the trunk can allow you to acquire a few liters at a discount if you find a cheap gas station that is far away, or if you have a discount voucher during a specific refueling.
Approved jerry cans are quite cheap and last a long time. Therefore, getting one is not far-fetched at all.