Propane marketers today are navigating a tricky landscape. While the acute tank shortages of the early 2020s – driven by steel price spikes and covid-era supply chain chaos – have eased, new pressures like volatile material costs and surging demand keep tank management front and center. Propane powers over 14 million U.S. households, a number… Continue reading Smart Strategies for Mastering Propane Tank Management
In a propane operation, your dispatcher often functions as the hub of all moving parts. From coordinating delivery routes to managing driver communication and handling schedule adjustments, this role holds significant operational value. But when a single dispatcher begins to operate with full autonomy, without documentation or oversight, your business becomes exposed to avoidable risk.… Continue reading The Hidden Vulnerability Behind the Dispatch Desk
In propane operations, verbal agreements often happen during quick phone calls or on-site visits. Long-time clients may confirm delivery schedules, pricing, tank swaps, or service expectations in passing. While these relationships are based on trust, they also introduce risks when the terms aren’t properly documented. In a regulated industry where compliance, liability, and customer satisfaction… Continue reading Propane – From Words to Proof: Why Documentation Matters
Running a propane company means managing a myriad of operations – deliveries, staffing, safety checks, vehicle maintenance, and customer service. But one concept often gets left behind in the daily grind: your break-even point. It’s the financial line that separates profit from loss. If you’re just guessing – or using outdated math – you might… Continue reading Hidden Costs That Could Be Killing Your Margin
The U.S. propane market is seeing a price surge, and many in the industry feel the impact. With propane being a key fuel source for homes, businesses, and industrial operations, understanding why prices are rising is essential. A significant factor behind this price increase is the growing level of U.S. propane exports, which is affecting… Continue reading Why Are U.S. Propane Prices Rising? What It Means for Your Business
You can only cover so much ground on your own as a propane business owner. Expanding your service area, gaining new customers, and building brand awareness takes a lot of time, effort, and resources. One smart way to grow without adding more delivery trucks or staff is by creating a network of resellers. When done… Continue reading Expanding Your Reach with a Strong Reseller Network
Cetane Associates (“Cetane”) is pleased to announce that EDP, headquartered in Chicago, Ill., has acquired Midwest Bottle Gas Distributors, Inc. (“Midwest Gas”), located in Highland Heights, Ky.
Propane businesses rely on their drivers to ensure safe and efficient deliveries. However, the process of hiring and maintaining qualified drivers goes beyond just filling positions – it requires meeting strict regulatory requirements and ensuring ongoing training. As the industry faces workforce shortages and evolving compliance standards, propane companies must take a proactive approach to… Continue reading Strengthening Your Operations with Qualified Drivers
The propane industry naturally faces its share of ups and downs throughout the year. Winter brings heavy demand, while the warmer months tend to slow down. This makes it hard to predict income and plan for future growth. That’s where a propane subscription model can help. By setting up a simple and steady payment system… Continue reading Steady Income Year-Round: The Power of Subscription Plans
Building strong relationships with propane equipment manufacturers can do much to help you grow your business. When manufacturers trust your company, they are more likely to recommend your services to their customers. This can lead to more referrals, increased credibility, and a stronger position within the propane industry. You want to be the business that… Continue reading Winning Manufacturer Referrals to Boost Your Business
In the rapidly evolving propane industry, adopting advanced technology platforms is no longer a luxury but a necessity. These platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth. By integrating various technological solutions, propane businesses can streamline processes, gain valuable insights, and maintain a competitive… Continue reading Maximizing Business Insights with the Right Technology Platform
When you run a propane business, your relationship with customers often starts with a handshake and a smile. However, that’s not what holds everything together; instead, it’s what’s written on paper that matters. Your customer agreement is more than just paperwork – it’s the foundation of trust, service, and legal protection between you and your… Continue reading Strong Contracts Build Strong Customer Relationships
When you notice your propane commercial sales slowing down, it’s easy to blame the economy, the weather, or even your sales team. But to rectify the problem, you need to be specific. A decline in sales doesn’t usually happen overnight. Instead, it tends to build gradually — missed targets, fewer new accounts, or less repeat… Continue reading Finding the Leak in Your Commercial Sales Pipeline
A good dispatcher keeps the propane business moving forward. A great dispatcher does even more. They don’t just fill in schedules and answer calls – they keep your drivers focused, your deliveries on time, and your customers happy. In many ways, the dispatcher is the revved-up engine behind the whole operation. Whether you’re a propane… Continue reading What Makes a Propane Dispatcher Stand Out?
When you’re running a propane business, every dollar counts. Costs can add up quickly – from equipment and delivery trucks to safety training and marketing. That’s why paying attention to what your state government offers regarding tax incentives is essential. These programs can greatly boost your company if you know how to properly utilize them.… Continue reading Unlock Hidden Savings with State Tax Incentives
Regarding propane delivery, the road that lies between the supply terminal and your customer matters more than you might think. If you’re running a propane company, you know how much time, money, and planning it takes to keep everything moving. But there’s one piece of the puzzle that’s often out of your control – the… Continue reading Trucking Challenges That Could Slow You Down
Running a propane business means dealing with fuel that must be handled carefully daily. Whether it’s a small leak, a damaged tank, or a near-miss on the road, even the slightest safety Habit issue must be taken seriously. An incident reporting system is one of the best ways to protect your company, team, and customers.… Continue reading The Safety Habit That Protects Everything
Many businesses focus on delivery and equipment services, but one area that often goes unnoticed is the rental market for propane tanks. These containers are essential for end-users and offer a steady and long-term income stream for propane suppliers. Tapping into this rental market could be a smart next step if you want to grow… Continue reading The Hidden Revenue Stream Fueling Long-Term Growth
Establishing a private-label propane brand offers propane business owners a way to stand out in a competitive market. Instead of selling propane under another company’s name, creating your brand allows you to build a loyal customer base, set your pricing, and increase profitability. A private label brand gives you control over marketing, service quality, and… Continue reading Why a Private Label Propane Brand Can Elevate Your Business
Propane companies looking for new ways to grow may find an opportunity in compressed gas sales. Many industries rely on gases like oxygen, nitrogen, acetylene, and carbon dioxide for welding, medical use, manufacturing, and food processing. Adding compressed gas to your product line could open new revenue streams while strengthening your business in an evolving… Continue reading Expanding Your Reach with Compressed Gas Sales
Propane delivery software is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity for businesses looking to stay efficient and competitive. A growing number of propane providers are recognizing the need to replace outdated systems and invest in modern solutions that streamline operations, improve accuracy, and enhance customer service. Recent industry data shows that 88% of… Continue reading The Shift to Smarter Propane Delivery
The push for electrify-everything policies is gaining momentum, with lawmakers and regulators advocating for an energy transition that prioritizes electricity over other fuel sources. While the goal of reducing emissions is widely supported, these one-size-fits-all policies often overlook the practical benefits of propane as a clean, reliable, and efficient energy source. As electrification efforts intensify,… Continue reading Propane’s Role in the Energy Debate: Pushing Back Against Electrify-Everything Policies
Underground propane tanks are a reliable solution for customers who want a clean look for their properties while maintaining access to a steady fuel supply. However, these tanks are exposed to environmental conditions that can cause corrosion over time. That’s where cathodic protection testing comes in – helping propane businesses ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and… Continue reading Protecting Underground Tanks with Cathodic Protection Testing
Running a propane business requires careful financial management. While the industry provides steady demand, poor financial decisions can put even the most established companies at risk. Avoiding these common financial pitfalls can help business owners maintain profitability, improve cash flow, and keep their operations running smoothly. Ignoring Cash Flow Management One of the biggest financial… Continue reading Financial Mistakes Business Owners Should Avoid
Securing a preferred vendor status with large corporations can provide a propane business with a steady stream of high-value contracts and long-term business relationships. However, the approval process can be complex, requiring careful preparation, strong business credentials, and a commitment to meeting multiple corporate standards. Understanding what large corporations look for in vendors can help… Continue reading Becoming a Preferred Vendor for Large Corporations
In the propane industry, ensuring uninterrupted service is a top priority. However, severe weather events, equipment malfunctions, or supply chain disruptions can sometimes lead to service interruptions. When these situations arise, having a clear and effective plan in place is essential to maintaining safety, customer trust, and operational efficiency. Understanding the Risks of Service Interruptions… Continue reading A Proactive Approach for Customer Safety and Satisfaction
In the dynamic propane industry, maintaining up-to-date policies and procedures manuals is essential for ensuring safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. As of 2025, several key considerations have emerged that propane companies should address to keep their manuals relevant and effective. Adapting to Regulatory Changes The regulatory landscape for propane continues to evolve. Recent updates to… Continue reading Keeping Policies and Procedures Manuals Relevant
Propane businesses operate in a high-risk environment, where proper safety measures are essential for both compliance and operational success. One of the most effective ways to ensure workplace safety is through comprehensive safety manuals that provide clear guidelines for handling, storing, and transporting propane. These manuals serve as a foundation for employee training, regulatory compliance,… Continue reading The Role of Safety Manuals in Strengthening Propane Operations
Running a propane business can feel like a tough job some days. Tanks need filling, customers expect quick service, and costs keep creeping up. Meanwhile, giant companies in the industry seem to glide through it all, serving thousands without breaking a sweat. How do they pull it off? The answer lies in their smart operating… Continue reading Lessons from Industry Leaders Small propane Businesses Can Use to Grow
In the propane Operations industry, adhering to safety and security regulations is essential. One critical requirement is the development and implementation of a Department of Transportation (DOT) security plan. This plan not only ensures compliance with federal regulations but also safeguards your operations against potential security threats. Understanding the DOT Security Plan Requirement According to… Continue reading Crafting Effective DOT Security Plans for Propane Operations
