Whether you’re storing fuel for your vehicle, carrying drinking water on a camping trip or handling chemicals for industrial use, choosing the right jerry can is essential. The right container will ensure safety, longevity and compliance with regulations, while the wrong one could lead to leaks, contamination or even hazardous situations. But with so many options available, how do you determine which jerry can is best for your needs? This guide will walk you through some key considerations to help you make an informed choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Jerry Can
Material Type
The first decision to make is the type of material: plastic or metal? Each has its advantages. Plastic jerry cans are lightweight, rust-proof and resistant to many chemicals, making them a great choice for water storage and certain industrial chemicals. If storing drinking water, look for BPA-free, food-grade plastic. Metal jerry cans are stronger and more durable, ideal for fuel storage. They’re fire-resistant and often better at preventing vapour leaks compared to plastic options.
Storage Purpose & Compatibility
Not all jerry cans are created equal. Using the wrong one for fuel, water or chemicals can result in contamination, deterioration or even hazardous reactions.
- For fuel storage, ensure the jerry can is designed for petrol or diesel. Some plastics degrade over time when exposed to fuel, while metal cans offer better protection against evaporation and leaks.
- For water storage, food-grade, BPA-free plastic is best to prevent contamination. A well-sealed design will also help avoid odours or bacteria buildup.
- For chemical storage, the jerry can material must be resistant to the specific substances being stored. Acids, solvents and cleaners each have unique storage requirements, so it’s important to check compatibility.
Capacity & Portability
Size plays an important role, especially for transport and handling:
- Small (5L-10L) jerry cans are ideal for short trips and easy carrying
- Medium (15L-20L) options offer a balance between capacity and portability
- Large (20L-25L or more) jerry cans provide long-term storage but can be heavier and more difficult to move
If frequent transport is needed, consider ergonomic handles, built-in spouts or pour vents to make handling easier.
Safety Features
A leaking jerry can creates unnecessary risks, so prioritising safety is essential. Ideally, your selected jerry can should include:
- Leak-proof caps and seals that help prevent spills and evaporation.
- Vented designs that allow for smooth pouring, particularly for fuel storage
- Secure locking mechanisms that reduce the risk of accidental spills, especially when transporting the jerry can
For hazardous liquids, it’s also important to select a container specifically designed and tested for that purpose to ensure maximum safety.
Compliance with Australian Standards
Storage regulations for fuel and chemicals must be followed to ensure compliance and safety. Any jerry can used for fuel storage should meet AS/NZS standards. For plastic fuel containers, UV stabilisation, approved spouts and compliance with flammability and vapour control requirements are necessary to prevent accidents. Checking for certification before purchase helps ensure the container is safe and legally compliant.
