— Hank Weniger, Energy
Having fuel tank issues during harvest season isn’t exactly ideal. That’s why getting your fuel tanks checked and repaired ahead of the season can prevent those unwanted problems at a time when time isn’t on your side.
Reliable fuel, DEF, and propane supply make sure your combines and dryers can run when you need them to. Planning for these things today means fewer surprises later.
One way to keep those surprises to a minimum is by running a pre-harvest tank check on each of your tanks.
Making sure your tanks are the right size for your operation is just as important. Has your storage kept up with your operation? Through our Fuel Tank Upsizing Program, you can upgrade your tank storage and spread the payment out over a couple of years.
Once you’ve got your tanks figured out, start planning how much bulk oil you’ll need this harvest. Planning ahead helps ensure you have oil when you need it and that we have what you need when you need it.
Putting in your DEF orders early, similar to your bulk oil purchasing, helps you avoid rush and delivery charges. Spending a few minutes now to plan not only helps you dodge those extra delivery fees, it also means you won’t be scrambling for an emergency delivery mid-harvest.
Diesel’s been expensive all year, and supply is still tight heading into harvest, so don’t count on prices easing up once combines start rolling. Propane’s in better shape. Supply is strong right now, which is good news for grain drying and DEF. The one thing that could tighten that up fast is timing. If this year’s crop matures early, everyone’s dryers could end up needing fuel at the same time, and that’s when things get squeezed. It’s better to get your propane and DEF orders in now than to wait and find out.
Another great way to save is by using your local fuel card at one of our Cardtrol fueling sites in Winthrop, Klossner, Le Sueur, Buffalo Lake, Sleepy Eye, or Brownton, where you’ll get 5 cents per gallon off your fuel purchase.
When you’re getting ready to start drying your grain, give us a heads-up. That lets our team watch your tanks more closely and helps you avoid running low mid-dry. Letting us help you stay ahead means we’re all ready for what’s coming.
Harvest season can be busy and stressful, but oftentimes our favorite time of the year. The Energy team wants to wish you a safe harvest and remind you that we’re here to help make sure you’re ready and have everything you need for another successful season. Give us a call or reach out through the Central United Customer Portal, and we’ll take it from there.