If diesel is unavailable, first confirm whether the problem is limited to one station or affects your supplier or area. Call your regular supplier for availability and delivery timing, and ask about backup arrangements. Do not switch fuels unless the equipment manufacturer confirms the fuel is compatible; check local rules before using marked, rebated, or emergency-grade fuel.
What should you do first?
- Check how widespread the outage is. Look for current supplier notices and local or state authority updates. A single station running out, a delayed delivery, and an officially declared emergency may call for different responses.
- Call your regular fuel supplier. Ask what fuel is available, when delivery is expected, whether allocations or emergency arrangements apply, and whether a backup or out-of-region supplier can serve you. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that businesses confirm emergency arrangements with their supplier and consider a backup source if their usual supplier is unavailable: DOE emergency preparedness guidance.
- Prioritize essential work. For a business or fleet, rank vehicles, generators, and machinery by safety and operational importance. Defer nonessential work where possible. Consider combining trips or using another transport option for routine journeys; UK government disruption-planning guidance recommends making alternative arrangements for regular journeys when usual fuel needs cannot be met: UK emergency-preparedness guidance.
- Stop if you cannot fuel the equipment safely and lawfully. If no approved fuel is available, defer operation and arrange another practical way to transport people or complete the work.
Can you use a different fuel?
Only use a fuel that the vehicle or equipment manufacturer approves for that specific engine. Check the owner’s manual, warranty terms, and, if the answer is unclear, contact the manufacturer or dealer before filling up. A fuel being available nearby does not establish that it is suitable.
Biodiesel blends
Biodiesel is often sold blended with petroleum diesel. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center says all original equipment manufacturers approve B5 (a blend containing up to 5% biodiesel), but advises checking the warranty before using higher blends such as B20. Higher blends can involve additional cold-weather, storage, filter, and warranty considerations. See the AFDC biodiesel overview and AFDC guidance on biodiesel blends.
Renewable diesel
Renewable diesel is not the same fuel as biodiesel. AFDC says renewable diesel that meets the conventional petroleum-diesel specification ASTM D975 can be used in existing diesel engines and infrastructure. Availability varies by region, so check the product specification and your equipment maker’s guidance before buying or using it. See AFDC’s renewable diesel guidance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems#1 Best Overall
- No More Slow & Messy Oil Transfer: Orion Motor Tech's 12V diesel transfer pump kit(oil not included) can transfer diesel or light oils up to 11.9 gpm with everything you need right out of the box: inlet & outlet hoses, nozzle, and all other necessary accessories
- Consistent and Reliable Performance: This self-priming oil transfer pump features a 0.2 hp (175W) motor with 16'5" max. suction and 32'10" max. lift, making on site oil transfer a breeze
- Operate in Complete Control & Safety: The adjustable trigger on the nozzle offers both manual flow control and continuous pumping; the bypass valve, mesh strainer, and mounting base ensure safe, clog free, and wobble free operation of this compact fuel transfer pump in any setting
- Your All-in-One Oil Transfer Solution: Our versatile electric fuel pump works with any low viscosity oil from diesel to kerosene, ideal for cars, boats, lawn mowers, and more
- Strongly Built for Lasting Service: This portable oil extractor pump boasts a sturdy copper motor with steel shell, 4'11" supply hose, and 6'6" discharge hose to provide superior strength and endurance for years of resilient use
Fuel conversions
Do not assume a conversion will make an alternative fuel appropriate for your engine. EPA notes that conversions can affect warranty responsibility, and fuel availability varies by region. Consult the manufacturer and a qualified conversion provider before making changes: EPA information on conversions and emissions tampering.
Fuels not established as diesel substitutes
Do not improvise by putting gasoline, heating oil, kerosene, used cooking oil, or homemade fuel into an unspecified diesel engine. These are not established here as safe replacements. Ask the equipment maker and fuel supplier what, if anything, is approved for your model.
Rank #2
- 13GPM FAST TRANSFER: The TaskStar fuel transfer pump has a flow rate of up to 13 gallons per minute, faster than typical gas station pumps, allowing fuel to be transferred quickly from the tank to the equipment. Our commonly used 55-gallon diesel drum can be emptied in less than 7 minutes, significantly improving work efficiency and saving time
- EASILY HANDLES REMOTE AND HIGH-POSITION FUELING: With a 160W copper motor that maintains consistent performance in freezing winters and hot summers, this diesel transfer pump can draw fuel from up to 9.8 FT away and pump it to a height of 26.2 FT. It easily handles remote fueling or high-position fuel tanks, solving various complex fueling issues
- COMPATIBLE WITH MULTIPLE FLUIDS: Our electric diesel pump is widely compatible with diesel, kerosene, machine oil, and transformer oil making it an ideal choice for agricultural machinery, RVs, boats, lawnmowers, and more. Whether you are fueling for an emergency outdoors or using it for extended periods, the fuel pump is your reliable assistant
- PORTABLE AND SPACE-SAVING: The portable fuel pump features an easy-to-install base with pre-drilled holes for secure mounting, and it is compact, making it easy to transport and store. It can also be stored neatly in tight spaces like your vehicle, garage, or equipment shed, making it ideal for outdoor use, and this transfer pump is also an excellent addition to your emergency kit
- ONE-STOP FUELING SOLUTION: In addition to the electric transfer pump, the fuel pump kit includes one 4 FT and one 6.6 FT fuel hose (0.9" diameter) , one 9.8FT battery clip, an adjustable fuel nozzle, a user manual and other accessories, ensuring you don’t need additional equipment and can use it right out of the box
Can you use red diesel or another restricted fuel?
Do not treat “red diesel,” marked fuel, rebated fuel, or higher-sulfur diesel as a general substitute. Names, tax treatment, permitted uses, and emergency exceptions vary by jurisdiction. Check the rules where the equipment will operate and confirm that you have the required approval before using restricted fuel.
For example, UK HM Revenue & Customs describes an exceptional route that requires approval before rebated diesel can be used for certain essential and critical purposes when full-duty diesel is unavailable. It is not a general shortage exemption and does not apply outside the relevant UK rules: HMRC guidance on rebated fuels in emergencies.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- DEPENDABLE & DURABLE PUMP: Made with durable cast iron construction to withstand rough operating environments, every 1200 series pump includes a limit lifetime warranty.
- EASY INSTALLATION: The fuel pump has a removable junction box that rotates 180-degrees for ease of electrical wiring and installation in tight spaces.
- PROTECTION AGAINST OVERHEATING: Engineered to exceed the industry’s most stringent safety standards, the pump is constructed with thermal overload protection to prevent the motor from overheating during abnormal usage.
- CONSISTENT HIGH PERFORMANCE: 1200 series Fill-Rite pumps are built with Rotary Vane Technology that maintains a consistent flow performance even as components wear from use.
- MOBILE APPLICATIONS: Designed for 12V battery powered bung mounted transferring from fuel tanks on trailers or trucks, the 1200 series will pull fuel at tank depths of 8 ft. and discharge fuel up to heights of 37 ft.
In the United States, EPA describes a limited Alaska waiver for some older vehicles and nonroad equipment designed for higher-sulfur diesel, operating above the Arctic Circle, during specified dates. The notice states: “Requirements for newer engines that need ULSD remain in effect.” This is not blanket permission to use non-ULSD fuel; check the live notice and its dates before acting: EPA fuel-waiver notices.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What if the problem is DEF rather than diesel?
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is used in emissions aftertreatment; it is not engine fuel. If a DEF warning appears, follow the equipment manual and contact the manufacturer or dealer for model-specific troubleshooting. Do not bypass or tamper with emissions controls. EPA’s guidance covers selective catalytic reduction warnings and derates, as well as anti-tampering requirements: EPA diesel exhaust fluid guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FUEL TRANSFER MADE EASY: This fuel transfer pump(oil not included) works with any low-viscosity oil to fill or empty engines, tanks, and more. Compatible with diesel, kerosene, the diesel fuel pump is ideal for filling diesel powered vehicles or engines at your garage or repair shop
- EFFICIENT MOTOR: Small in size, our self-priming diesel fuel transfer pump’s 12V motor pumps up to 12 GPM with a max suction length of 16.4 ft, lifting up to 32 ft for convenient and quick-on-site oil transfers; this high-efficient pump does all this while generating minimal noise
- DEPENDABLE SAFETY: The inner bypass valve effectively protects the 12v transfer pump motor from burning when clogged; it is also equipped with a metal strainer to filter out impurities from diesel while pumping, protecting the pump from damage
- HEAVY-DUTY BUILD: This electric diesel fuel transfer pump has an impeller made of cast steel for durability, combined with the sturdy copper motor that provides stable performance while delivering unparalleled suction power
- PORTABLE & MOUNTABLE: Our self-priming fuel transfer pump features a mountable base while the handle is thicker and stronger makes you more comfortable
Rank #4
- INDUSTRIAL 12V DC FUEL TRANSFER PUMP WITH 15 GPM HIGH FLOW - This industrial-grade 12V DC fuel transfer pump delivers up to 15 GPM, providing fast and efficient fueling. Its strict design ensures safe operation with gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and other fuels, making it highly versatile across different applications. The durable 2" NPT male adapter allows for quick and reliable mounting to tanks or drums, turning the 12v gasoline transfer pump into a dependable fuel tank pump for long-term heavy-duty use.
- POWERFUL COPPER MOTOR WITH OVERHEAT & OVERLOAD PROTECTION - Built with a pure copper motor for stable performance, this diesel transfer pump 12 volt is designed to withstand harsh environments. The 12V gasoline transfer pump runs continuously for 30+ minutes without overheating, thanks to advanced thermal protection. The IP55 waterproof housing and wide temperature range from -25°C to 50°C guarantee consistent, reliable operation in tough conditions, ensuring safety and long service life.
- COMPLETE FUEL TANK PUMP KIT WITH PREMIUM ACCESSORIES - This 12 volt fuel transfer pump comes as a full kit to save you time and cost. Package includes the main pump, extendable stainless steel suction pipe, heavy-duty rubber hose, premium fuel filter, automatic nozzle with swivel, nozzle rack, and pre-installed power cord with battery clamps. Designed for convenience, this 12V transfer pump kit provides everything you need for quick installation and immediate use.
- EASY INSTALLATION WITH BUILT-IN NOZZLE BOOT & PREINSTALLED POWER CORD - This 12V fuel transfer pump mounts securely to your fuel tank with a 2" NPT adapter and is ready for use anytime. The integrated nozzle boot keeps your fuel nozzle neatly stored and easily accessible, making fueling safer, cleaner, and more convenient for both professional and everyday applications. The 12 volt fuel pump comes prewired with a power cord and battery clamps, eliminating the complex wiring and potential safety risks found in other models.
- AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF NOZZLE FOR HANDS-FREE FUELING - Featuring a smart automatic nozzle, this 12V DC fuel transfer pump makes fueling safer and more convenient. Simply press and release the trigger for hands-free operation—the nozzle will automatically shut off once the tank is full, preventing spills, overflows, and wasted fuel. The transfer tank pump allows you to refuel with confidence and efficiency without constant monitoring.
How should a business plan around a disruption?
- Identify which vehicles and machines support safety-critical or time-sensitive work, then set priorities for available fuel.
- Confirm supplier contacts, delivery arrangements, emergency contract terms, and whether a backup supplier can deliver to your location.
- Check each machine’s approved fuels individually; a fuel approved for one model may not be approved for another.
- For any alternative, verify the manufacturer’s approval and warranty position, fuel specification, local supply and delivery timing, applicable tax and emissions rules, cold-weather suitability, and storage or handling requirements.
- Decide in advance which journeys and tasks can be postponed, combined, or completed another way.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
