A CO2 tank must be emptied before it is packaged for shipping. The CO2 gas is stored in a compressed manner that can cause the tank to burst or explode at certain altitudes, such as those reached in an airplane.
When shipping a CO2 tank, you must declare to the shipping company what the package contains. If you are unsure whether the shipping company will ship the tank, consult with customer service before emptying and packaging the tank.
Some shipping companies might require tanks be packaged a certain way, so consult with the company beforehand. Some shipping companies will package the tank for you. Also be certain to ask about restrictions on destinations if the tank is being shipped outside the continental United States.
