Bulk Equipment Guide

Tanker Trailers

Tanker trailer types, what they haul, and where to find tanker loads on the largest bulk freight marketplace.

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Tanker trailer

What Is a Tanker Trailer?

A tanker trailer hauls liquid and some dry bulk in a cylindrical tank. Configurations range from food-grade and chemical to crude and liquid feed, each built for the product it carries. Sanitary requirements, tank material, and compartments all vary by commodity, so tanker work rewards carriers who specialize.

What Tanker Trailers Haul

  • Edible and vegetable oils
  • Liquid feed and molasses
  • Liquid fertilizer
  • Water and food-grade liquids
  • Industrial chemicals
  • Fuel and petroleum products

Baffled vs Smooth-Bore

Tankers come baffled or smooth-bore. Baffled tanks have internal walls that reduce the surge of liquid when starting and stopping, which improves handling. Smooth-bore tanks have no baffles and are easier to clean, so they are common for food-grade and sanitary loads. Food-grade, chemical, and crude tankers each carry their own equipment and wash requirements.

Find Tanker Loads on BulkLoads

Search live tanker loads by lane and equipment, connect directly with shippers and brokers, and book the freight that fits your operation.

Tanker Trailer FAQ

What is a tanker trailer used for?

A tanker trailer hauls liquid bulk such as edible oils, liquid feed, liquid fertilizer, water, chemicals, and fuel in a cylindrical tank. Different tankers are built for food-grade, chemical, and petroleum products.

What is the difference between a baffled and smooth-bore tanker?

Baffled tankers have internal walls that limit liquid surge for better handling. Smooth-bore tankers have no baffles, which makes them easier to clean and common for food-grade and sanitary loads.

What do tanker trailers haul?

Common loads include edible and vegetable oils, liquid feed and molasses, liquid fertilizer, water and food-grade liquids, industrial chemicals, and fuel. The tanker configuration is matched to the commodity.

Where can I find tanker loads?

BulkLoads is the largest bulk freight marketplace in North America. Search live tanker loads by lane and equipment, connect with shippers and brokers, and book the freight that fits your operation.