Mobile tank systems are used for decentralized fuel supply. Find out here what they are, what the differences are, and whether they require a permit.
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What is a Mobile Fueling Station?
A mobile fueling system, also referred to as a mobile fueling station or mobile tank system, is a transportable system for the storage and dispensing of fuels and combustibles such as diesel, gasoline, or heating oil. Unlike stationary filling stations, they are not tied to a fixed location and can be flexibly deployed where they are needed.
What are Mobile Tank Systems Used For?
Mobile fueling systems are used in a variety of areas where a temporary or decentralized fuel supply is required. These include, in particular:
• Construction Sites: Supplying construction machinery, generators, and other equipment.
• Agriculture and Forestry: Refueling tractors, harvesting machines, and other agricultural equipment.
• Events: Providing fuel for generators, heaters, and other technical facilities at events, festivals, or markets.
• Temporary Facilities: Bridging failures of the regular energy supply or during disaster relief operations.
How Does a Mobile Tank System Work?
A mobile fueling system essentially consists of a robust, double-walled tank container mounted on a trailer or another transportable base. It is equipped with a pump, a dispensing hose, and a nozzle to dispense the fuel safely and efficiently. Modern systems often feature additional equipment such as level indicators, overfill prevention devices (limiters) to avoid overfilling, and sometimes remote monitoring systems that allow the fuel level and the condition of the system to be checked remotely.
What Types of Mobile Tank Systems Are There?
Mobile fueling systems can be distinguished according to various criteria, such as capacity, material, or approval. Common sizes range from small canisters with a few liters to large tank containers with several thousand liters of capacity. The tanks themselves are usually made of steel or plastic.
A key distinguishing feature is the approval for the transport of dangerous goods. A distinction is made between two main categories:
- Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC): These are large packaging containers that are approved for the transport of dangerous goods and are subject to regular inspections.
- Packaging: Smaller containers that are also approved for the transport of dangerous goods but are generally not subject to recurring inspections.
How Much Fuel May Be Transported in a Mobile Fueling System?
The permitted transport quantity depends on various factors, particularly the type of fuel and compliance with specific regulations. The relevant regulations can be found in the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).
Two important regulations must be observed here:
| REGULATION | MAXIMUM TRANSPORT QUANTITY (EXAMPLES) | REQUIRED MEASURES |
|---|---|---|
| TRADESMAN’S EXEMPTION (ADR 1.1.3.1C) | 450 liters of diesel per single package, 333 liters of gasoline per single package (total max. 1000 points) | No special dangerous goods requirements (no dangerous goods driver’s license, no special labeling) |
| 1,000-POINT RULE (ADR 1.1.3.6) | 1000 liters of diesel, 333 liters of gasoline | Transport document, compliant packaging with labeling, load securing, 2 kg fire extinguisher |
Who Inspects Mobile Tank Systems?
The inspection obligations for mobile fueling systems depend on their approval. For tank systems approved as IBCs, recurring inspections are legally required:
• Every 2.5 years: A recurring inspection by a competent person. This includes checking the external condition, the labeling, the function of the operating equipment, and a leak test.
• Every 5 years: An inspection by an approved inspection body (e.g., TÜV, DEKRA). In addition to the 2.5-year inspection, compliance with the design type is checked and an internal inspection is conducted.
For mobile fueling systems approved as packaging, no recurring inspections according to ADR are required.
Is a Mobile Tank Subject to Authorization?
The transport of mobile fueling systems is exempt from authorization under certain conditions. This is the case if the transport quantities do not exceed the limits of the Tradesman’s Exemption or the 1,000-Point Rule and the associated requirements are met. For larger quantities or deviating transport conditions, the full provisions of the ADR must be complied with, which requires, among other things, a dangerous goods driver’s license, special vehicle and transport labeling, and the carrying of dangerous goods documents.
References:
DENIOS. (seen on 10/09/2025). Mobile Tankanlagen sicher und effizient nutzen.
Tankhandel.de. (seen on 10/09/2025). Vorschriften für mobile Tankanlagen.
Forum Verlag. (seen on 10/09/2025). Mobile Tankstelle am Bauhof: Diese gesetzlichen Grundlagen müssen Bauhofleiter berücksichtigen.
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