There are numerous considerations when purchasing bulk products for your business. Cost, shipping, speed, and reliability are all key factors. Once you have the product, though, you need a place to store it. And, since we’re talking bulk products, storage can sometimes be tricky. There has been much discussion on storing bulk gasoline. In this post we’re going to discuss bulk oil. Keep reading below to find our tips for oil storage tanks!
Space Considerations
The first thing you need to determine when talking about bulk storage is how much space you have to work with. Are you in a cramped urban environment? Is your business on thirty acres of land you own? Both of these situations are going to require distinct solutions. Moreover, what is your plan for your business in five years? Ten years? Is it worth installing a large, permanent oil storage tank when you plan on being in a different location within the next few years? These are all key factors, and should be considered before you even begin looking at options. A little bit of preplanning can save you from quite a few headaches.
Transportation
It may seem like an afterthought, but how are you getting your tanks delivered? If they are smaller, perhaps you can throw them in the back of a pickup truck. If you are looking at large tanks for your oil storage, you’ll need a trucking company with heavy haul services.
Tank Material
After you figure out how much space you have, and how you are transporting your tanks, the next consideration is the material of the tank itself. There are numerous options here, and it’s going to come down in large part to the pros and cons of each.
Stainless steel tanks will be the most expensive, but require very little maintenance. So, you pay more upfront, but may save cost on repairs over the lifespan of the tank. Stainless steel can be incredibly strong, as well.
Mild plate steel or aluminum are lighter and cheaper than stainless steel, but may require additional coatings. The seams in these tanks will also not be as strong, and cleaning will be required more regularly.
Many tanks now are also made of plastic. These tanks can be significantly lighter and prevent rusting. A plastic tank can also be made clear, so oil levels can be seen without opening the tank.
Remember to be aware of environmental factors when choosing a tank material and where to store that tank. You don’t want external contaminates getting into your oil, and you don’t want your oil contaminating the ground around it!
Other Considerations
The three points above are starting points, but those are far from the only considerations. Once you’ve determined your choices for tank size and material, you’ll need to figure out additional components of your oil storage plan. Most tanks will require breathers and ventilators, if you purchased the tanks separately. Depending on the weather where the business is located, you may need to consider heaters and water-phased floaters. Filtration units for the tank will also need to be considered. But, if you take it step by step and breakdown the needs for your company, you’ll be on your way to having your oil stored safely and efficiently in no time.
For transportation of your oversized oil tanks, or any of your heavy haul trucking needs, reach out to Moffitt Caswell Southern Trucking. Our team can haul whatever you need!
