Here’s the not-so-secret inside scoop about trucking: Tanker drivers are the elite, and you, too, can join the industry’s “special forces.”
Will Lusk
Director of Education and Government Relations, National Tank Truck Carriers
One of the biggest draws of tanker trucking is the higher driver compensation. Companies often pay tanker drivers higher wages compared to dry vans or flatbeds because of the specialized skills and additional training needed. The premium pay for hauling liquid, gas, and even dry bulk commodities reflects the high responsibility of transporting hazardous or sensitive materials safely and efficiently. For drivers looking to maximize their earning potential, tanker jobs are a strong option.
Safety and training distinguish tanker trucking from other driver careers. Drivers receive in-depth instruction on proper loading, unloading, and handling of specialized cargo. Many enjoy the challenge of mastering these skills, which sharpen their professionalism and make them highly valued in the industry. The knowledge that they are among the most skilled drivers on the road can be deeply satisfying.
Personal fulfillment
For many, the key advantage is the sense of responsibility and professionalism that comes with the role. Tanker drivers don’t just move freight; they move the milk and grains that families across America depend on to eat. When a local community is devastated by a hurricane, hope and recovery start when a gasoline tanker arrives to fuel generators and cars needed to begin the cleanup.
Plastics and industrial chemicals hauled by these tankers are the front end of our manufacturing ecosystem. As you can see, tanker drivers are depended on for our security and industry, giving drivers a unique sense of pride and purpose.
Professional benefits
Tanker drivers also benefit from career stability, as fuels, chemicals, and food are always needed. This means drivers are less subject to the ups and downs that affect other freight sectors. In addition, many tank carriers offer strong benefits packages, reliable schedules, and more opportunities for local or regional routes that allow more time at home.
Finally, tanker trucking offers drivers the chance to join a tight-knit professional community. Tanker fleets are often smaller since they are more specialized, and drivers tend to build long-term careers with the same company, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose that many people value.
In short, being a tanker truck driver isn’t just about earning a paycheck; it’s about taking on a challenging, respected role that rewards skill, responsibility, and commitment. For those looking for a career that combines stability, professional growth, and pride in a job well done, look no further: Tanker driving is a road worth traveling.
