How to transport a generator the right way

To head into the wilderness for camping, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home behind. With a generator, you can easily open up many possibilities, from lights to stoves. However, a few precautions must be taken when transporting the generator inverter generator manufacturer. Such safeguards will prevent damage to your generator and ensure enough fuel reaches its destination.

Transporting a generator requires a lot of attention and care. Although portable generators are built to be moved, some are more rugged in design than others that need to be secured for travel.

In this article, we will explain the process and methods by which you can transport a generator the right way.

How to transport the generator safely

You’ve invested in a portable generator to enjoy electricity at work or for fun. This means it will need to be transported safely to different locations. Here are some tips for transporting your generator safely.

1) Close the fuel valve

Always turn off the fuel valve before moving your generator. Road vibration can cause fuel to seep into the crankcase. It is a good idea to close the fuel valve whenever the engine is not running to prevent leaks in the crankcase. Allow the generator to cool before transporting. The machine, if it is running, will heat up. Please turn it off and wait at least 15 minutes before moving it to avoid burns and damage to generator components.

2) Keep the generator upright

Never turn the generator upside down for transport. Turning the generator on its side can cause fuel and oil leaks and damage to other parts. Make sure you use a vehicle that can move your generator upright. For proper transportation, you should always use a truck or trailer.

Do not install the generator inside the vehicle. Fumes from fuel tanks can be dangerous to your health and that of any passengers.

3. Secure the generator

No matter how safely you drive, the vibration of the trip can cause the generator to move. Bouncing or jolting can damage generator components if not secured. Take these steps to ensure the safety of your generator and others.

More tips for transporting a generator

1) Preparation of the generator

Before transporting your generator, you must ensure the fuel valve is closed and your equipment has enough time to cool down.

Next, you will need to drain the fuel from your generator. To do so:

Remove your fuel tank cap.
Move the fuel tank vent level to the “OFF” position.
Pull out the strainer, a small “u” shaped device, at the bottom of your tank.
Place an approved container under your fuel tank to hold the gasoline.

2) Loading the generator

Hold your generator in position using the fold-out handles if equipped with them. Once the generator is ready to load, you’ll need at least one other person to help lift it. You can use up to four people, one on each corner. It is also possible to lift with a crane if it’s available.

3) Where to put your generator?

Never store your generator inside a vehicle. Even with a dry fuel tank, gasoline fumes can easily overwhelm you. The best place to transport your generator is in the bed of a trailer or pickup truck. If you don’t have a trailer or pickup, consider investing in an A-frame or hitch-mounted cargo copyright.

If you have a luggage rack, you shouldn't place your generator on your vehicle. Portable generators can weigh up to 250 pounds, more than most automobiles can safely carry. Your generator can also become a deadly projectile if you’re involved in an accident.

4) Safe and secure transport

After finding a place for your generator, you’ll need to store it properly. You can keep your generator inside if you have a weatherproof storage container. A heavy-duty plastic storage container can also be modified as a carrying case. Use plenty of packing material to protect your generator from sliding and slipping.

You can transport your generator without placing it in a container. When doing this, you must protect against the weather, wrap the generator in a tarp, and cover it on all sides before securing it with bungee cords.

Do not place the generator on top of other objects. It would help if you did not place anything on top of your generator while it is transported. Load the luggage so it is easy to unload it when you reach your destination.

5) Unloading the generator

Unfasten all straps and remove any wires or covers. Have another person help lift your generator from its carrying position to a flat, even surface. Once you’ve done this, inspect the goods for any damage that may have occurred during the transport. If you notice damage, please get in touch with the local professional so they can fix the issues or damages.

6) Obey all traffic laws

To ensure your and other road user's safety, it's essential to obey all traffic laws when transporting a generator. This includes using turn signals when needed, buckling up and driving within the posted speed limit.

7) Transporting the fuel

Ensuring fuel reaches the campsite is half the battle in carrying your generator. Fuel is more volatile and liquid, making it difficult to predict. Fortunately, a simple fuel can take care of most of the problems. Still, safe transportation is essential, and you don’t want to spill smelly gasoline all over your car. Start by securing your fuel can cap and any ventilation there. Open or leaky caps can mean spills. Next, place the fuel can in your car's trunk or your truck's bed. Avoid placing it in the passenger compartment, as even an empty container may emit vapors. Keep the container upright so that it does not move around during transport. A bungee cord works well here, or you can use a truck box. As a warning, don’t let fuel sit in your car for too long. The dangers are in the fumes that can escape and the risk of burns. Just remember to remove the fuel container as soon as you can.

8) Reconnecting and testing the generator

After transportation, it is vital to reassemble the generator and perform the necessary tests correctly. Here’s what you should do:

a) Reassembling the generator components

Carefully reconnect any disconnected generator components, including electrical connections, fuel lines, and exhaust system. Make sure everything is aligned correctly and securely attached.

b) Checking for any damage or loose connections

Inspect the generator thoroughly for any shipping damage. Additionally, check for loose connections and tighten them if necessary.

c) Fueling and testing the generator

If the generator was defueled for transportation, fill it with the proper fuel following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once fueled, start and test the generator to ensure it operates smoothly and produces the expected power output.

d) Following safety protocols during initiation

When starting the generator, follow all safety protocols provided in the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes adequate ventilation, keeping a safe distance from moving parts, and using any required personal protective equipment.

You will ensure its functionality and readiness by carefully reassembling and testing the generator.
How to move an RV portable generator

Many RV generators are permanently installed in a compartment for safety. Regularly check fasteners to ensure that screws and bolts are tight before transporting.

If you purchased a separate generator for your RV, follow the steps listed for transportation. If possible, store your generator in your tow vehicle or RV compartment. If not, following all safety precautions when moving your generator is wise.

How to move the worksite generator

Many contractors need power at remote job sites, so having a portable generator is essential. Most generators are designed for rough conditions, but caution should always be a priority when moving.

Generators must be permanently secured to the bed of a trailer or truck. This will help protect them while traveling to and from work sites. If permanent application is impossible, the steps listed must be followed.

How do I move my industrial generator?

When you want your existing generator to your new facility or need power system transport, a commercial generator rigging service is the solution you need. For the best experience with your industrial generator transport, it pays to work with a team of professionals instead of doing it yourself.

a) Site planning

Before moving your generator, you must decide where it will go in the new facility. Ensure the area is large enough for the fuel tank and provides enough space for maintenance personnel. When choosing your site, keep these things in mind:

● Clearance for protective fencing
● Clearance between fuel supply and building
● Access to fuel supply
● Electrical services and ground fuels are above ground or buried.
● Specific guidelines from the generator manufacturer and state and federal government

Each type of generator has its considerations. For your particular system, consider these points when planning your site:

● Weight of generator when fuel tanks are full
● Backup fuel supply tank capacity
● Fuel consumption of the unit
● Dimensions of the generator

After the site is set, pour a concrete pad for the generator to sit on. This pad will be a permanent structure to secure the generator and keep it level during operation.

b) Trucking the generator

Moving a generator has three components:

Pair the generator with the best truck: After considering the length, width, height and weight of the generator, pair it with a truck that allows the unit to be centered and can handle the load.

● Secure and protect the generator on the truck:
● Secure the generator to the truck at the supply points without marring the paint.
● Cover it with a tarp.
● Insulate the control panels and ports for added protection.

Obtain the necessary permits: Each state differs in its permit requirements (load size and weight), so understand each state's regulations you’ll pass through on your way.
c) Installation

Secure the generator lift points to a crane or forklift to move the generator from the truck and onto the concrete pad. Use the machine controls to set the generator to its correct location on the concrete pad.

Once the generator is set on the concrete pad, secure it with concrete anchors. Some options for this task include:

Mechanical bond: After the concrete has cured, drill a hole, set the stud and tighten it.

Adhesive bond: After the concrete has cured, put the epoxy down and install the stud to be square and level.

Heavy-duty anchors: These anchors must be installed before the concrete is poured.

Safety precautions during transportation of generator

Handling the generator requires care and attention to protect both your safety and those around you. Following the correct protocol and taking the necessary steps to prevent accidents and damage while moving the generator in the city or the country is vital.

a) Wear protective equipment

Wearing protective equipment such as gloves, steel-toe boots, and safety glasses while moving the generator is essential to avoid any possible accidents.

b) Follow proper lifting practices

Using good lifting skills to avoid strain or accidents when loading and unloading the generator. Use your legs when lifting instead of arching or twisting your back. Never be ashamed to ask for help when you need it.

c) Be aware of your surroundings

When moving the generator, pay attention to your surroundings and watch for potential hazards or obstacles. If you encounter an unexpected situation, slow down and proceed with caution.

FAQs

1) Can you transport a generator on its side?

Generators should never be turned upside down or on their side. Fuel and oil can get into and damage engine parts. In addition, other engine components may be damaged or broken. Always transport the generator in its upright position on a truck or trailer.

2) Can you put a generator in a car?

Never put a generator inside a car. Fuel tank fumes can drown the driver and passengers. The weight and bulk of the generator can damage the interior or the person(s) trying to carry it into the car. Use a truck or trailer to transport the generator and follow operating instructions.

3) Can you run a generator in the bed of a truck?

Following the owner’s manual instructions for operating the generator, the answer may be “yes.” Many contractors safely operate their work generators on truck beds or trailers. Also, you can run portable generators from RV or truck beds for outdoor use. The key is to follow all operating and safety guidelines from the generator manufacturer according to the operating manual.

4) Can I move my generator while running?

No. The generator engine gets hot, and if you try to move it while it’s running, you can burn yourself badly. There is a possibility of electrocution. Fuel lines can burst and cause a fire. Parts may get damaged or broken.

5) What type of truck is needed to transport the generator?

The size of the vehicle you may need to transport the generator depends on its size and weight. If your generator is too heavy or big to fit in your vehicle, you may as well need to rent a trailer.

Conclusion

The cost of a generator is an investment to provide you with power when you need it. It's your responsibility to properly maintain your generator for years of operation. Transporting it for work or fun requires safety measures to operate it.

The operating manual that came with your generator is valuable to help you maintain and transport it. Remember that each manufacturer has procedures and guidelines for maintenance, operation, and transportation. Be sure to refer to your generator manual for specific instructions.