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Description Of Business And Presentation Of Financial Statements (Policy)
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2011
Description Of Business And Presentation Of Financial Statements  
Accounts Receivable Accounts Receivable
Our accounts receivable consist of amounts due from customers that are primarily companies in the petroleum industry. Credit is extended based on our evaluation of the customer's financial condition and in certain circumstances, collateral, such as a letter of credit or guarantee, is required. Our credit losses, which historically have been minimal are charged to income when accounts are deemed uncollectible. At June 30, 2011, our allowance for doubtful accounts reserve was $2.6 million.
Inventories
Inventories
We use the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method of valuing inventory. Under the LIFO method, an actual valuation of inventory can only be made at the end of each year based on the inventory levels at that time. Accordingly, interim LIFO calculations are based on management's estimates of expected year-end inventory levels and are subject to the final year-end LIFO inventory valuation.