Demand for propane is driven by many residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural needs – and consumption is rising. In fact, propane consumption in the U.S. alone reached about 1.48 million barrels per day in January 2025, the highest for any January since 2005, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Part of the reason for this increasing demand is the fact that propane is considered as a safe, reliable, low-cost, low-emissions fuel. The storage and transport of propane also presents significant opportunities in the trucking industry.
Hauling propane is a specialized segment of the transportation industry that offers both significant opportunities and critical safety challenges. Given continued demand, propane transport remains in steady demand, providing carriers with consistent business opportunities and strong customer relationships—especially in colder regions and rural markets where propane fuels heating and operations.
However, moving propane comes with high stakes. As a flammable and pressurized gas, it requires strict adherence to federal and state safety regulations, rigorous truck driver training, and precise equipment maintenance. Drivers must be certified to handle hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and maintain acute awareness of loading procedures, securement, and emergency protocols. Even small errors—such as a valve leak or improper temperature management—can result in serious risk to people, property, and the environment.
In the interest of compliance with safe operations and transport, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all new CDL- and HME-applicants to successfully complete theory and behind-the-wheel training before they can take a state’s CDL or HME exams. The requirement is called Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT). For these reasons and more, getting drivers licensed is an ongoing issue.
This is where the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) can help to get drivers on the road quickly, easily and safely through its ACE Services Program. The services through this program help companies with building the needed workforce by providing the ELDT in-house, which is required for CDL drivers under FMCSA regulation, according to the NPGA. The services have allowed for trucking companies, within and outside of the propane industry, to save time, money, and administrative burdens.
According to Kaminski, as part of NPGA’s mission his organization works tirelessly to promote and expand opportunities, and advocates for truckers before the Department of Transportation and other agencies. He mentions NPGA currently is working on an hours of service waiver for the season of high demand in response to requests from the trucking industry. NPGA is similarly promoting a pilot program aimed at enhancing flexibility for truckers.
“NPGA is proud to support Women in Trucking, as well as women who lead our Transportation Section, and the many women in the propane industry,” says Kaminski.
Technological advancements, such as real-time tank monitoring, digital route optimization, and electronic logging systems, are helping fleets to improve safety, efficiency, and compliance. Meanwhile, companies that invest in ongoing driver education and proactive maintenance are finding a competitive edge through fewer incidents, lower insurance costs, and stronger customer trust.
In short, propane hauling is not just about transportation—it’s about responsibility. For carriers willing to prioritize safety and operational excellence, it remains one of the most rewarding and resilient niches in the logistics industry.
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