So why doesn't everyone drive fuel tankers?

KABOOM!

I can't believe this is my first post on here.

 

Most new CDL grads don't know those jobs are available to them.

Also, many CDL students, listen to the advice of other students who know absolutely nothing about trucking and are told, "Don't drive tankers, you will get killed ASAP if not sooner! You should pull vans first!" Some students actually believe this advice from another student

Lots of good tanker jobs for new drivers, not just fuel, but chemicals and food grade.

 

Most people take the path of least resistance. You have to be able to actually drive to run a tanker...not just hold the steeringwheel. Most "drivers" drive well enough to pass the CDL exam and thats as far as they want to go. Then they cry and post videos on YouTube when their travel agent is on their arse about being a slacker.

 

Some of the costs associated with hauling tankers are that with most companies i've run with require an additional 15-25k investment for hydraulics, or pto setup with a T&E, Roper, or similar type pump. Some companies will have the pump right on their set of trailers which financially is great for o/o's.
If you purchase your own set of trailers, insulated ones for oil can run $300,000 plus, and petroleum trailers less. Its a lot to take on financially. Even if you don't have the responsibility of having your own trailers, a new truck rigged with hydraulics and pump will see the final bill at around 170k.
Just my opinion.

 

Everyone has their niche. For starters next time you are at a convienence store that is small and crowded remember a tanker driver brought Thier fuel. I absolutely hate driving in town and the liquid feeling behind me I don't like either. I am glad there are guys who wish to do it for sure. I would also think that it takes an immaculate background these days.

I bet there is a side to the job we don't see that it isn't all cake and ice cream. Them boys earn there money for sure every dime

 

Tankers are NOT for everyone... they take a smooth driving style, easy on the throttle, and the brakes, and smooth on the shift. Many are afraid of hauling Hazmat, and think all tankers are hazmat. Food grade tankers have more surge.

It is not all about the money for many people. It is doing what they enjoy also.

 

Plenty of money in other lines of work. Food service, or even just being an otr van hauler with experience. You can demand alot of money and get it too. Flatbed pays well. Oversized and overweight loads pay well.
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You think too black and white.

 

Not all tanks are hz. Odd hrs/weekends, ect. Pay is pretty good but alot of responsibility. That and the driver has to be able to not lose his cool with idiots ever. The trucks are maintained immaculate. I hauled fuel 20 yrs ago it was not my apple pie.

 

When you have a wreck hauling around 8000 gallons of gasoline you usually have a big fire
and explosion. Kind of a dangerous way to make
a living. Thats why it pays more.