Red diesel is a fuel that is used for machinery and off-road vehicles across a wide variety of industries including farming and construction. This product is just like regular diesel, but is dyed. However, for reasons that are discussed below, you do not want to use this fuel for any activity that isn’t an approved use. The following are answers to six common questions that many have about red diesel fuel.
Why is this fuel dyed?
Fuels are occasionally required to be dyed so that they can be identified. Identification of fuel is important because some are subject to specific fees, taxes, and other regulations from which others are exempt. For example, aviation gasoline can be dyed red, purple, blue, or green depending on its mixture. The United States requires diesel to be dyed red if it is a high-sulfur fuel.
The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) governs the rules regarding the red dye used. Usually, Solvent Red 26 is used, but Solvent Red 164 is also acceptable.
What is the tax on red diesel fuel?
Red diesel does have a tax, but it is rebated. This means that the price is lower than that of other fuels if you are buying it for off-road uses. The IRS also requires dyes in certain fuels because some, such as heating oil, are tax exempt. The IRS dying rules generally follow EPA regulations.
Can I use red diesel in my truck?
Red diesel fuel is not different than regular diesel when it comes to using it in your commercial vehicle, but it is illegal. As stated above, this product has a high-sulfur content, which means that it is suitable for off-road activities but not on-road. If a random spot check finds that you are using it for on-road activities, you could be subject to substantial fines and other penalties.
Why is using red diesel in my truck illegal?
The government is strict regarding the use of this product, because criminals avoid paying taxes on standard fuels. Some groups do this by removing the red dye from the fuel and selling it to unsuspecting motorists.
The penalty for this crime depends on the state in which you are caught using red diesel fuel. However, you can generally assume that you will be subjected to a steep fine.
What is red diesel used for?
Red diesel is chemically no different than any other fuel, so it can be used in your truck, as heating fuel, and in a generator. However, this product is reserved for agricultural and construction equipment and other off-road uses.
Who uses red diesel?
The commercial and industrial sectors traditionally use gasoline to power their generators, bobcats, tractors, and other heavy equipment, but they could use red diesel. In the United States, traveling carnivals and fairs often use this product to power their generators. You do not need a license or certificate to purchase this fuel, but the entity from whom you purchase the red diesel must be certified.
Where can I get red diesel fuel?
Kendrick Oil distributes a wide variety of fuels at wholesale prices, including diesel and gasoline. If you need bulk fuel Products and related Services, call us at 1 (800) 299-3991 today or Contact Us by email. We proudly operate in the states of Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana, Colorado, and Kansas.
