Almost all consumer-owned standby systems are equipped to accept delivery of LP-gas via truck. A minority also use rail. In general, a consumer will get a better buy on propane if purchased in transport or railcar quantities.

Bobtail

Transport

Railcar

Truck Fuel Transfer Station

The location and construction of fuel transfer stations are important design factors. At LPG plants with more than 4,000 gallons total storage capacity, NFPA 58 requires emergency shutoff valves at transfer stations to allow quick closure. A "breakaway" feature is also required to protect plant piping in the event of a connected-truck pull away. Trucks normally have power-take-off pumps to transfer product. Top-fitted railcars require the use of vapor compressors to "push" the liquid propane out and, on a secondary cycle, recover much of the remaining propane vapor.