So, driving tanker seems profitable, whats the catch?

There is no downside. That's as simple as I can put it. I've done van, flatbed, reefer, tanker.

Edit: I'm a huge fan of tanker/hazmat; easy money & little work. My previous posts show that. Many just can't comprehend a new driver fresh out of CDL school making over a thousand a week, but it's there if you want it.

 

Often times you're driving a bomb...

But, everything has risks!

 

I'm not going to be one who says the money is "much better" in the tanker biz. It all depends on where you might end up working at. Also, you talking chemical/fuel or food grade?

 

And just how often do those bombs explode?

It's not like we hear about it every day. But, only every couple months or so.

 

Chemicals/fuel - hazmat.

Some other companies such as Bulkmatic hauling food grade or non-hazmat it's easy to break through the $55K pay range, but you need 12 months experience. Foodliner is another good one.

 

Easiest work that you will ever do...and you get paid for everything but fueling...and if you count your points u get paid for that too lol...you get more respect as a tanker driver...if the stuff is real hazardous they will unload it and you sit in the truck or the driver room...take more then two hours you on hourly pay...just watch them curves and you will be okay

 

Always remember hauling tanker is like dancing with a 800lb gorilla. You're done when he is. That liquid is gonna slap you around. So don't be surprised when it hits you at traffic lights. Just keep your foot on the brake at all times. You'll be OK.
IMHO I concur with my friends here. Chemicals/hazmat is the way to go. There's just a little more drama than in food grade.

 

Only downside I've found is getting used to the surge. There are tricks you'll learn to reduce it but when a 4 wheeler cuts you off and you have to hit the breaks you'll feel it slam you. I still look to make sure I didn't get rear ended when I get slammed.

 

You're absolutely correct, next to never. I was not leading anyone to believe that, but some shy away from tankers for the fact that more often than not the load is let's just say volatile