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Tanker truck: liquids, powders and specialist bulk products

Learn why tanker specification must match the product being transported, the transfer method and any applicable regulation.

Stainless-steel tanker truck parked on an industrial site

Definition

What is a tanker truck?

A tanker trailer is one of the transport units capable of carrying the widest variety of liquid goods. Depending on its design, it can be used for food-grade products, industrial liquids, certain powders and, with the proper equipment and approvals, regulated hazardous materials.

This does not mean that any tanker can carry everything. A tanker dedicated to hazardous goods is not used for food-grade transport, and the reverse is also true. The tank material, the number of compartments, pumping systems, cleaning process and traceability requirements all vary according to the nature of the product being carried.

For ADR hazardous goods, the vehicle, equipment, driver and organisation must comply with a whole set of specific authorisations and requirements. To learn more, see our page on ADR dangerous goods transport.

Loading & unloading

How is the vehicle operated?

Loading and discharge take place through facilities compatible with the product and vehicle. The exact product, volume, transfer conditions and applicable regulation must be identified before transport is arranged.

Before booking

Information to confirm

  • ✓Exact product designation and properties
  • ✓Volume, density and temperature if relevant
  • ✓Tank and equipment compatibility
  • ✓Loading and discharge method
  • ✓Applicable regulations, including ADR where relevant

Typical uses

Goods and operations suited to this vehicle

Stainless-steel tanker loading compatible industrial liquids on an industrial site
Compatible industrial liquids
Food-grade milk tanker at a dairy facility with cows visible in a nearby field
Food products with a dedicated tanker
Bulk tanker connected to industrial silos for compatible powder products
Powders or pulverulent products depending on equipment
Industrial tanker with specialised pumping and tank equipment adapted to the carried product
Products requiring a specific tank
ADR tanker operation with hazardous-goods placards, safety equipment and trained operator
Regulated flows with suitable equipment and driver

Drivet Transport International

Frequently asked questions

Can one tanker carry any type of liquid?+

No. Tank specification must be compatible with the product. Food-grade, chemical, fuel and other specialist products can require very different equipment.

Is tanker transport always subject to ADR?+

No. ADR applies to dangerous goods. Many tanker movements are not ADR, while some products require specific equipment, documents and procedures.

Transport request

Need a transport quote?

Send us the goods, dimensions, weight, loading method and delivery constraints so our team can review the appropriate road-transport solution.

Request a transport quote