Shipping Cylinders via Amtrak?

[renaissancemanjoshua]

OK so here is the newest dilemma. I need to transport all my gear from WA to CA for a few months. I figure since the USMC wants me there I might as well make the best of my time there. Since I will be flying directily to CA I need to ship my gear via some carrier. I believe Amtrak might be the way to go. They have a decent cargo service and can ship rather close to my location. So here is the question.... Does anyone have any experience shipping cylinders via Amtrak? I am guessing that if I drain them, and crate them, there should be no problems.

If anyone has a better idea I am all ears.

 

[mike_s]

You can prob drain them and crate them and have no problems, assuming that Amtrack does de-rail on the way. (which is very likely in my opinion).


However, DOT does consider shipping a pressure tank as HAZMAT (if under
pressure), so officially you should remove the valves. Put a piece of clear
tape over the opening of the tank so they can see in the tank easily.
Put the valves in ziplock bags so they can been seen w/o getting dirty.

 

[crpntr133]

You can prob drain them and crate them and have no problems, assuming that Amtrack does de-rail on the way. (which is very likely in my opinion).


However, DOT does consider shipping a pressure tank as HAZMAT (if under
pressure), so officially you should remove the valves. Put a piece of clear
tape over the opening of the tank so they can see in the tank easily.
Put the valves in ziplock bags so they can been seen w/o getting dirty.

Which may also mean a new VIP. I got lucky and got a refill after mine were drained for shipment. The valve stayed on.

 

[scubak]

If you are flying there, why not just load them on the plane...
I don't really think there is a problem if you drain them, remove the valve and such...
Just my 2c..
K

 

[renaissancemanjoshua]

To tell the truth I did not know I could ship them on the plane. I suppose it is just the same deal with draining them and pulling the valve. Somehow I imagine that TSA would be opening that package to inspect.

I would take them on the plane except for two things. First I will be shipping four 98 foot cylinders, and secondly I will be flying from NC to CA not via WA.

I have shipped cylinders via FedEx ground before. it is expensive and they are kind of a pain to deal with. They use the same rules as you guys have laid out. No air, valve out, and they have a weigt limit. They would be inefficient for this trip.

 

[Travisc]

Greyhound is another shipping method, not expensive either.

Travis