Last Updated on May 8, 2023
Whether you’re at a campsite without sewer hookups or simply want to avoid constantly moving your entire RV just to empty the holding tanks, a portable RV waste tank can be a game-changer.
However, transporting this essential piece of equipment isn’t always easy. Your portable RV waste tank can be transported by emptying the tank, cleaning the tank, carefully securing the tank, and driving carefully.
Today we’ll provide the proper steps and some tips and tricks on transporting your portable RV waste tank safely and efficiently so you can enjoy your camping trip without any hassle.
How to Transport Portable RV Waste Tank: A Step-by-Step Guide
Transporting a portable RV waste tank can be daunting for any RV owner, especially those new to the RV lifestyle. Here is a step-by-step guide for safe transportation:
STEP 1. Empty the Portable Waste Tank
The first step in transporting your Portable RV Waste Tank is to empty the tank. Pour your RV into a designated dumping station, remove the cap from the tank’s outlet valve, and let the waste flow slowly.
Take your time and do not rush this process to prevent any spillage or accidents. Once the tank is empty, close the outlet valve tightly to avoid any leaks during transportation.
STEP 2. Clean the Waste Tank
After emptying the tank, it is essential to thoroughly clean it to prevent any unwanted odors or bacteria growth. Begin by rinsing the tank with a high-pressure hose to remove leftover waste residues.
Then, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, add a mixture of water and tank cleaner, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse the tank again and let it dry completely before transporting it.
STEP 3. Secure the Tank
Before transporting the Portable RV Waste Tank, it is important to ensure it is securely fastened to the RV. Use heavy-duty straps or bungee cords to attach the tank to the RV’s rear bumper or hitch. Double-check that the straps are tight enough to prevent any movement during transportation.
STEP 4. Cover the Tank
To protect the Portable RV Waste Tank during transportation, it is essential to cover it with a tight-fitting lid. This will prevent any debris, insects, or rainwater from getting inside the tank and contaminating it. Use a cover specifically designed for Portable RV Waste Tanks and make sure it fits securely and snugly.
STEP 5. Drive Carefully
Driving an RV with a portable waste tank can be challenging, especially if you’re new to an oversized vehicle. Here are some essential tips that will help you drive safely and responsibly with a portable waste tank:
1. Slow and steady: Always drive slowly and steadily when carrying a waste tank to avoid spills and accidents. Sharp turns, sudden stops, and speed bumps can cause the tank to tip over, spilling its contents all over the road.
2. Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles when driving with a portable waste tank. This will give you enough time to react to any sudden movements or obstacles on the road and avoid accidents.
3. Monitor your tank’s weight: Keep a close eye on your waste tank’s weight throughout your journey. Overloading the tank can cause it to burst, releasing harmful waste materials into the environment.
How to Choose a Suitable Vehicle to Transport a Portable RV Waste Tank?
Choosing the right vehicle is crucial when transporting the portable RV solid waste tank. Here are some considerations for choosing the perfect vehicle:
Check the Waste Tank Weight
The weight of your portable waste tank is an essential factor you need to consider when choosing a vehicle. You must ensure your selected vehicle can carry the tank’s weight without becoming unbalanced or unsafe.
Typically, waste tanks weigh 10-50 pounds but can hold up to 50 gallons of waste. Therefore, verifying the tank’s weight before purchasing a vehicle for transport is essential.
Consider the Tank Size
The size of your portable waste tank is another significant factor to consider when choosing a transport vehicle. You must ensure your chosen vehicle can comfortably accommodate the tank’s size.
Remember that larger tanks require larger storage space, which may affect the vehicle’s overall weight. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the tank’s size and the vehicle’s storage capacity when deciding.
Look for a Sturdy Towing Hitch
A sturdy towing hitch is necessary when transporting a portable waste tank. It must be strong enough to support the tank’s weight without compromising stability.
Also, towing hitches are available in various forms, including bumper-mount, frame-mounted, and ball mount. Choosing the right hitch for your vehicle is crucial for transporting your waste tank safely and easily.
Check the Vehicle Towing Capacity
The vehicle towing capacity is essential when choosing a suitable vehicle for transporting a portable waste tank. Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can transport.
To ensure the tank’s safe transportation, you must choose a vehicle that can accommodate its weight without exceeding its towing capacity. Before purchasing any vehicle, review its towing capacity to ensure it can handle the tank’s weight.
Tips and Tricks for Safe and Easy Transportation
When transporting a portable RV waste tank, safety should always be the first priority. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or a first-timer, safe and easy transportation is paramount for enjoying your travels on the road.
Here are some tips for proper transportation:
Make Sure the Waste Tank is Securely Fastened
The first and most crucial step to safe transportation is securely fastening the waste tank. The waste tank should be attached to the RV’s frame using heavy-duty straps or metal brackets.
This ensures that the tank stays in place during transportation and does not cause any damage to the RV or other vehicles on the road.
Choose a Suitable Fastened Location
When transporting an RV waste tank, selecting a suitable location to fasten it is essential. The waste tank should be removed from heat sources, such as the engine or exhaust pipes, to prevent accidental leakage. Also, it should be positioned to provide ample clearance and not interfere with the RV’s movement.
Try to Use an RV Waste Tank Cover
A waste tank cover protects it from debris or external elements during transportation. It helps prevent contamination from the environment and prevents damage from rocks, sand, or other hazards on the road. A durable and sturdy waste tank cover that fits perfectly over the waste tank is the best option.
Avoid Overfilling the RV Waste Tank
Overfilling an RV waste tank can lead to disastrous consequences, including leakage and damage to the RV. Monitoring the waste tank’s fill level and stopping filling it when it reaches the recommended limit is essential.
Most RV waste tanks have a designated indicator that signals when the tank is approaching its capacity.
Use Gloves and Protective Gears
During the transportation process, it is necessary to use gloves and protective gear. Gloves protect you from coming into contact with any hazardous waste material, while protective gear helps protect you from any spills or accidents.
Protective gear includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, boots, and safety glasses. Remember, safety should always be a top priority during transportation.
Precautions While Transporting a Portable RV Waste Tank
When transporting your portable RV waste tank, taking some precautions while driving is crucial to ensure a safe and easy journey. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Drive Slowly: You must drive slowly and carefully when transporting a full waste tank. Avoid sudden stops or turns that could cause the tank to tip over or spill its contents.
- Avoid Bumpy Roads: Avoid bumpy roads or rough terrain as much as possible. This will help prevent any damage to the tank or its components.
- Secure the Tank Properly: Ensure the tank is securely fastened before hitting the road. Use straps or bungee cords to keep it from shifting during transit.
- Check Your Route: Before heading out, check your route for any low bridges, narrow roads, or other obstacles that could be problematic for your vehicle and waste tank.
- Use Hazard Lights: If possible, use hazard lights while driving with a full waste tank. This will alert other drivers to be cautious when passing you on the road.
When Transporting a Portable Waste Tank, How Do You Empty it?
When transporting a portable waste tank, knowing how to empty it properly is important. Emptying a portable waste tank is simple and similar to dumping a regular sewer hookup. First, you must locate the dump station at your RV park or the nearest one in your area.
Once you have located the dump station, reverse your RV over the waste hole and attach the sewer hose from the portable waste tank to the sewer inlet. Next, release the valves and allow the waste to flow out of the tank completely.
Once the waste tank is empty, rinse it thoroughly with clean water and store it safely until its next use.
What’s the Maximum Time RV Waste Can Safely Stay in the Portable Tank?
RV waste can be a significant source of health hazards and environmental pollution, so knowing how long you can safely store waste in a portable tank is crucial. Typically, a portable waste tank can safely store waste for between 3 and 5 days, based on the regular usage of the RV.
However, it is worth noting that leaving waste in a portable tank for longer than the recommended time can lead to odors and bacterial growth. Moreover, the longer you store waste in the portable tank, the greater the risk of spills or accidents during transportation.
Transport that Waste Tank: Preparing Plans and Steps for a Safe Journey
RV waste tanks can be tricky to transport, but if you prepare and take precautions, it can be done safely.
But first and foremost, you must empty the tank by taking the time to thoroughly rinse and clean it before sanitizing it for future use. Remember that proper maintenance of your RV waste tank is crucial for its lifespan and your health and safety.
By following the steps outlined, you’ll be able to safely transport your portable RV waste tank, knowing that you’re taking all necessary precautions. We hope this guide has helped assist you with the transportation of your portable RV waste tank.
