When it comes to pushing, lifting, moving and carrying, we know diesel powers any construction business. The extra power of diesel fuel is how heavy-duty trucks and other equipment get the job done. And while all diesel delivers the same power and efficiency, you need to be sure you’re using the right diesel for the right work. Fueling up your construction vehicles with the right type of diesel can help you save money either by reducing taxes or avoiding fines. Ready to learn more?
For dump trucks, tank trucks, and other heavy-duty vehicles that transport materials to and from your job sites, you need to fuel up with on-road diesel. As the name indicates, it’s for vehicles that are driven on public roads and highways. Think trucks that remove loads of demolition rubble, or the flatbeds that bring building materials or transport other equipment.
On-road diesel is clear, and it is subject to federal and state taxes that are used to fund road maintenance and infrastructure projects. As a result, on-road diesel is typically more expensive than off-road diesel. You can purchase it at a gas station—or work with a dealer like Rand Wade to set up bulk fuel deliveries that can make fueling up more efficient and help you save money over the retail per-gallon price.
Off-road diesel, also known as dyed diesel or red diesel, is chemically the same as regular diesel fuel in every way, except for the color. Off-road diesel fuel is dyed red to indicate that it’s not for use on public roads and is exempt from federal taxes.
What types of vehicles are considered off-road? The definition includes both vehicles and equipment that literally do not use roads, such as for aviation and marine use, and things like carnival rides, as well as generators for trailers and mobile homes. When it comes to other vehicles that could be driven on public roads you need to be careful. Misusing off-road diesel can result in significant fines and penalties. Since off-road diesel is not taxed for road use, using it in on-road vehicles is illegal, and penalties can be steep, including fines and potential legal consequences.
Here’s a list of vehicles that are usually deemed off-road:
Whether you need on-or off-road diesel—or both—for your construction fleet, you need the expertise, fair pricing and reliability that Rand Wade delivers. When it comes to buying diesel fuel, there’s a reason so many construction fleets in Green County choose Rand Wade. Every gallon of diesel we sell is graded as ultra-low-sulfur, which means it will burn cleanly and power any diesel engine sold in the U.S. today.
Contact the diesel fuel pros at Rand Wade to learn more.
