BEST Gas Station Equipment List: Equipment Needed to Start a Gas Station

Essential Gas Station Equipment List (Appliances, Tools, Essentials)

Opening a gas station requires a significant investment in equipment. After all, you’ll not only need gear like fuel dispensers and storage tanks, but you’ll also likely need to consider the cost of setting up your attached convenience store.

With notoriously low profit margins of just 1% to 2%, achieving profitability can be challenging. Fortunately, however, by selecting the right equipment, you can balance quality with costs to streamline your operations and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

So, in this article, we’ll explore all of the essential gas station equipment you’ll need to run a successful business. Then, we’ll provide some tips for selecting the right gear, and close with whether you should buy new or used equipment.

Key takeaways

• Gas stations need to budget for expenses related to fueling, like gas dispensers and canopies, as well as convenience store costs, like shelving and refrigeration units.

• It’s vital to invest in the right technology, like a comprehensive POS system, to improve the efficiency of your operations and meet evolving customer expectations.

• Try finding the right balance between quality and cost when selecting your gas station equipment. While high-quality equipment may cost more upfront, it’s typically more reliable and will last longer. So, be sure to think about your long-term finances as well.

• Consider purchasing essential equipment, like fuel pumps, in new condition. For non-essential gear, used items may be a more cost-effective approach.

Essential gas station equipment

Depending on the size of your station and the quality of equipment you purchase, gas station startup costs typically range from about $250,000 to several million dollars.

However, investing in the right equipment is essential for creating a functional, safe, and profitable gas station. So, below is a list of necessary equipment, along with their functions, value, and estimated cost range.

1. Fuel dispensers (pumps)

Fuel dispensers are the cornerstone of any gas station, enabling customers to pump gasoline or diesel. 

Modern fuel dispensers are equipped with advanced digital interfaces that display the fuel amount, cost, and type in real-time. Many pumps also feature contactless payment options, improving the customer experience by offering convenience and faster transactions. 

Additionally, today's fuel pumps come with enhanced safety features, such as automatic shutoff mechanisms to prevent overflows, and vapor recovery systems that minimize harmful emissions.

Ultimately, fuel dispensers not only drive your primary revenue stream, but also offer opportunities for upselling through integrated advertising displays.

• Average Cost of Fuel Dispensers (Pumps): $16,000 to $21,000 per dispenser; installation can cost an additional $2,500 to $3,000 per pump

2. Underground storage tanks (USTs)

Underground storage tanks (USTs) play a critical role in storing large volumes of fuel beneath the surface. 

USTs are designed with double-walled construction and leak detection systems, offering maximum protection against leaks, spills, and environmental contamination. Proper maintenance and monitoring are crucial to ensure long-term safety and compliance with local environmental regulations.

Overall, USTs are essential for maintaining a continuous fuel supply, reducing the need for frequent fuel deliveries. Their leak prevention systems protect against environmental hazards, helping you meet regulatory requirements and avoid costly fines.

• Average Cost of Underground Storage Tanks: $25,000 to $30,000 per tank

3. POS system

A gas station Point-of-Sale (POS) system is a critical component of your operations, facilitating smooth and efficient transaction processing. 

They allow for quick payment handling, whether through traditional cards, mobile payments, or contactless methods. Beyond transactions, a robust POS system provides advanced features like:

• Inventory management

• Sales tracking

• Employee scheduling and payroll 

Many systems can also integrate with loyalty programs, offering customers rewards and incentives that encourage repeat business.

Ultimately, a POS system is critical for monitoring performance and making data-driven decisions. Its ability to integrate with loyalty programs adds value by promoting customer retention and increasing profitability.

• Average Cost of Gas Station POS System: Depends on sales volume, but typically charge a 2% to 4% processing fee on each transaction; systems are available for as little as $0

4. Canopy and signage

A canopy offers protection to both customers and vehicles from the elements, whether it’s rain, snow, or harsh sunlight. It also houses essential lighting to keep the fueling area well-lit and safe during the evening and nighttime hours. 

Additionally, the canopy is an opportunity to display your station’s logo or branding, reinforcing your identity to passing drivers. 

Signage is equally important, as it enhances your station’s visibility, making it easier for customers to spot your location from a distance. You can also use digital signage to display:

• Real-time fuel prices

• Promotions

• Advertisements

Ultimately, your canopy and signage can help attract more customers by creating a professional and inviting atmosphere.

• Average Cost of Gas Station Canopy and Signage: $35,000 to $80,000 depending on the size

5. Convenience store shelving and display

Investing in high-quality shelving and display units helps you efficiently organize and present your products. 

Well-planned shelving helps maximize retail space, making it easier for customers to find items, while eye-catching display units can highlight promotions or high-margin products. Properly-designed shelves and displays can also:

• Improve the flow of customer traffic

• Encourage impulse purchases

• Enhance the overall shopping experience 

Lastly, adjustable and modular shelving options provide flexibility, allowing you to quickly rearrange or expand your product offerings as needed.

• Average Cost of Shelving and Display Units: Depends on the size of your store and the quality of the equipment, but typically ranges from $5,000 to $20,0000

6. Refrigeration units

Refrigeration units provide essential storage for perishable goods, beverages, and other chilled items. These units help maintain the freshness and quality of products such as dairy, snacks, and bottled drinks.

The visibility provided by glass-front coolers also encourages impulse purchases by making products easily accessible and visually appealing to customers.

They also enhance the customer experience by providing cold beverages and snacks, driving sales, especially during warmer months.

• Average Cost of Refrigeration Units: Depends on the size of your store and type of refrigerator, but typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000 for each unit.

7. Security system

A robust security system helps ensure the safety of employees, customers, and assets. They typically allow you to monitor both the inside and outside of your store in real-time, often featuring:

• High-resolution surveillance cameras

• Motion detectors

• Alarm systems 

Strategically-placed cameras can help deter theft and vandalism, while alarm systems provide immediate alerts in the case of break-ins or emergencies. Many systems also offer remote access, allowing you to monitor the premises even when off-site.

Lastly, security systems can provide some peace of mind, protecting your business from potential losses and legal liabilities.

• Average Cost of Gas Station Security System: Usually around $3,000, but can range from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the size of your store and features you want.

8. Air and water dispensers

Air and water dispensers offer added convenience to customers by providing services such as tire inflation and windshield cleaning. These dispensers are often located near the fuel pumps and are easy to use, allowing drivers to maintain their vehicles while fueling up. 

In addition to serving customers, air and water dispensers can be a source of extra revenue, as many gas stations charge for air and water services. 

They’re also a great way to attract more customers, encouraging them to stop at your station for their maintenance needs.

• Average Cost of Air and Water Dispensers: $1,500 to $5,000 per dispenser

9. Lighting

Adequate lighting is a key element for both safety and security at a gas station, especially during nighttime operations. The right lighting ensures that customers can safely navigate the fuel pumps and convenience store while reducing the risk of accidents or criminal activity. 

Bright, energy-efficient LED lights are commonly used for their long lifespan and low energy consumption. 

In addition to safety, effective lighting enhances the station's visual appeal. This helps create a welcoming and professional atmosphere that can attract more customers, particularly during evening hours.

• Average Cost of Gas Station Lighting: Depends on the size and lighting requirements of your station; typically costs about $10,000, but can cost up to $50,000 for bigger stations.

How to choose the right gas station equipment

When selecting equipment for your gas station, focus on these three high-level considerations to ensure you make the best investment.

1. Quality, durability, and compliance

Reliable, long-lasting equipment minimizes downtime and maintenance costs. Additionally, all equipment must meet regulatory standards to avoid fines and legal issues.

So, be sure to choose high-quality brands with strong warranties, and ensure everything complies with safety and environmental regulations.

2. Cost and efficiency

Balancing cost with energy efficiency helps control both upfront and ongoing operational expenses, maximizing your return on investment.

Compare prices, factor in long-term energy savings, and consider your total cost of ownership, including maintenance and repairs.

3. Ease of use, support, and scalability

Equipment that’s easy to operate reduces training time and operational errors, while strong support services ensure quick issue resolution. At the same time, scalable equipment allows for growth without needing costly upgrades.

So, opt for user-friendly equipment that integrates well with other systems, comes with reliable support, and can grow with your business.

New vs used gas station equipment

When setting up your gas station, deciding between new and used equipment is an important consideration that can impact your initial investment and long-term profitability.

Below we take a more detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

New gas station equipment

Opting for new equipment offers several benefits, one of the best being access to the latest technology and features. This can help enhance the efficiency and customer experience at your gas station. 

Additionally, new equipment typically comes with a full manufacturer’s warranty, providing peace of mind against potential malfunctions and ensuring you have access to reliable support and maintenance services. 

Remember, the longer lifespan of new equipment means fewer immediate repair costs and less downtime, which is critical for a business that operates around the clock.

However, these advantages come at a price. New equipment requires a higher upfront investment, which can significantly impact your initial budget. It's also important to consider that new equipment starts depreciating as soon as it’s installed, which could affect the long-term value of your assets.

Used gas station equipment

Used gas station equipment, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly alternative, allowing you to allocate resources to other areas of your business. 

It can be particularly cost-effective if you’re able to find high-quality, well-maintained equipment from reputable brands. Better yet, used equipment is often immediately available, which can be an advantage if you're working within tight timelines.

The trade-offs, however, include a higher risk of breakdowns and the potential for more frequent maintenance, which can lead to unexpected costs and disruptions. This not only results in lost sales, but can also damage customer retention. As Scott West, P.E. from HFA Architecture + Engineering, wrote for Convenience Store News:

“Imagine driving to a c-store specifically to charge your battery, but then finding that, contrary to the nifty map on your smartphone, the charger is ‘out of order.’ It's a serious threat to hard-won customer loyalty — even if charger maintenance isn't the c-store's responsibility.”

Another drawback to used equipment is that warranties are often limited or non-existent, leaving you to bear the full cost of repairs. 

Lastly, used equipment may lack the latest technological advancements, which could put you at a competitive disadvantage or result in higher operational costs due to inefficiencies.

Should you choose new or used gas station equipment?

The choice between new and used equipment should be guided by:

• Your budget

• The critical nature of each piece of equipment

• Your long-term business goals 

For essential, high-use items like fuel dispensers or POS systems, new equipment might offer better value over time. Meanwhile, used equipment could be a practical choice for non-essential or easily-replaceable items. 

Make the most of your gas station equipment

Choosing the right gas station equipment is essential for meeting customer expectations and improving operational efficiency. 

While this is true for all of your gear, it’s especially important when selecting your POS system. After all, this is the main hub of your business, helping you make key business decisions.

Fortunately, with Toast’s POS system you can centralize all of your key business operations, like inventory and staff management, in one comprehensive platform. Better yet, you can improve your customer experience by offering loyalty programs, online ordering, and more.

To discover all the ways Toast can help you maximize your gas station revenue while optimizing costs, be sure to check out all of the great features!

Why Toast Retail is Perfect for Gas Stations

In today's competitive supermarket landscape, selecting the right technology is essential for both new ventures and established businesses aiming for success. Solutions like Toast retail not only streamline operations, making them more efficient, but also provide invaluable insights to optimize the financial health of the business. 

By harnessing the power of point of sale technology, retailers can gain a competitive edge, improve customer satisfaction, and drive sustainable growth. Choosing the right technology sets the foundation for long-term success, empowering businesses to adapt to evolving market demands and thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The tech that redefined restaurants is now here to transform retail. Supercharge your store with the POS built for high volumes and complexity, offering everything you need to run your business on one platform. Toast's retail offering is a game-changer for businesses like convenience stores, liquor stores, and retail stores, revolutionizing how they operate and interact with customers. Here's why Toast is the perfect fit for these retail environments.

1. Helps Modernize How You Sell

Toast's intuitive, cloud-based system simplifies daily operations. Its user-friendly interface makes staff training a breeze, ensuring seamless adoption across your team. Whether it's processing payments in-store or integrating with online sales channels, Toast ensures a smooth and consistent experience for your customers regardless of how they shop.

• Intuitive Cloud-Based System: Our intuitive, cloud-based system is easy to learn and easy to use. Say goodbye to complicated interfaces and hello to streamlined processes. Toast is designed to simplify your day-to-day operations, from staff training to consolidated operations, ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity.

• Seamless Payment Processing: Toast’s seamless payment processing easily integrates with online payments for smoother sales every time, no matter how your customers are shopping. This integration ensures a hassle-free experience for both customers and staff, leading to increased satisfaction and faster transactions.

• Flexible Order and Checkout Options: Offer flexible and efficient order and checkout options with reliable hardware including handhelds, kiosks, and guest-facing terminals. Adapt to the diverse needs of your customers and reduce wait times at checkout with Toast's versatile hardware solutions, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

2. Streamline Retail Management

Efficiency is key in retail, and Toast delivers with automated, mobile-first inventory management. Say goodbye to manual inventory tracking and hello to SmartScan, a feature that enables quick product scanning and shelf placement. Managing thousands of SKUs becomes effortless with Toast's intuitive product database and bulk update capabilities.

• Automated, Mobile-First Inventory: Experience the freedom of automated, mobile-first inventory management with Toast. Create and print barcodes in bulk, and take new products from scan to shelf in seconds with our SmartScan feature. Say goodbye to tedious manual inventory tasks and hello to streamlined operations.

• Efficient SKU Management: Easily manage thousands of SKUs with our intuitive product database and bulk updates feature. Modify, reprice, and import multiple products at once, saving valuable time and resources. With Toast, keeping track of your inventory has never been easier.

• Retail-Enhanced Dashboards: Stay on top of your business with retail-specific dashboards and cost-tracking reports. Monitor trends, maximize margins, and ensure your top-selling products are always stocked, empowering you to make data-driven decisions that drive profitability.

3. Tailor Your Customer Experience

Toast empowers you to tailor the customer experience to fit your unique retail concept. Whether you're considering adding food service or expanding your offerings, Toast's flexible platform accommodates creative expansion.

• Creative Expansion Opportunities: Thinking of adding food service to your retail concept? Including Kitchen Display Systems and Order Ready Boards, our flexible platform allows for creative expansion. Explore new revenue streams and enhance the overall customer experience with Toast's versatile features.

• Online Ordering and Delivery Integrations: Give your guests the option to order from home with Toast’s Online Ordering and our third-party delivery integrations. Meet your customers where they are and provide convenience that keeps them coming back, increasing customer loyalty and satisfaction.

• Loyalty Rewards and Personalized Offers: Be your neighborhood's favorite shop (and incentivize repeat visits) with loyalty rewards and personalized offers. Transform one-time shoppers into loyal patrons by engaging with your community and offering enticing rewards, making your store the go-to destination for your customers.

In conclusion, Toast's retail solution is more than just a point of sale system; it's a comprehensive toolkit designed to elevate your retail store to new heights. From modernizing sales processes to streamlining management and enhancing the customer experience, Toast empowers retail businesses to thrive in today's competitive market.

Related Resources

• Gas Station Inventory Management

• How Much Do Gas Stations Make

• How to Open a Gas Station

• Gas Station Marketing

• Cost to Open a Gas Station

• Gas Station Business Plan

• Gas Station Design

• How to Run a Gas Station

• Gas Station POS System

• Gas Station Ideas and Concepts