Some may assume that when someone says they drive a truck, that’s all there is. But if you drive, regardless of whether you have experience or are just starting, you know there are several different driving occupations. The focus of today is operating a tanker truck. What appeals to drivers about transporting tanker trucks? How would they alter things? Below is what you should know if you’re considering driving a tanker truck.
The Pros:
1. Competitive pay for the sector
In the US, tanker truck drivers make an average of $20.32 per hour. That is more than many other driving jobs pay on average per hour. As with any employment, experience, and recommendations, raise the salary.
The stuff you tote affects your salary as well. As a result of the additional occupational dangers and experience requirements, hazmat driving often pays more.
2. Good benefits
Many tankers use Hazmat vehicles. However, not all do. The advantages of driving a tanker truck outweigh the modest increase in risk compared to other CDL driving specialties. For tanker drivers, having enough health insurance, life insurance, and vacation time is standard.
3. Usually quick loading and unloading times
Using a large hose, a tanker truck is loaded and unloaded. When unloading a tanker, you’re often in and out in 15 to 20 minutes, as opposed to the hours you would have to wait to have your dry van or reefer emptied. It typically takes 45 minutes to load up.
4. A lot of truckers return home each night
Local or regional hauls are the norm for tanker truck employment. A major benefit of driving a tanker truck is having frequent home time. You get to see your family more often and stay close to home when you work at a job you enjoy.
5. No touch freight possible
A Hazmat driver is often out of contact. In many cases, your customers will handle the loading and unloading, so you won’t have to worry about handling freight or dealing with big loads. Even though you’ll still connect hoses, you won’t need to tarp a cargo on a windy day.
The Cons:
1. Driving requires some acclimatization time.
There is space for your cargo to move when you start and stop while operating a tanker truck that is partially loaded. It is referred to as a “surge.” Essentially, the liquid in your load will be slightly behind if you slow down too rapidly. You could feel the liquid crash against the front of the tank a split second later. The energy may be sufficient to move your whole vehicle a few steps! Although it might be difficult initially, most drivers claim they soon adjust and develop safe driving practices.
2. Potentially more hazardous than other hauls
There is a considerable likelihood that a tanker truck driver is transporting hazardous materials. It raises your danger, whether due to chemicals, heated oil, gasoline, or anything else.
Climbing atop a tanker truck in ice circumstances may be risky, even if you deliver food-grade or other non-hazardous products.
3. Draws more attention from DOT
Although no studies have been done to substantiate this formally, several drivers claim that DOT tends to pay extra attention to Hazmat drivers. This may also rely on the standing of the business you work for and the area you operate in.
4. Safety equipment
There are a few more safety requirements if you drive hazardous. The uniform you wear is a significant one. As protection against harmful gases, tanker drivers often use fire-resistant coveralls and an H2 monitor.
You will also wear safety glasses and a helmet with a face shield during load and unload periods to lessen your danger.
The Bottom Line
Driving a tanker truck has advantages and disadvantages, just like any other occupation. This position can be ideal for you if having quality home time and a decent salary are top priorities. Tanker truck drivers face additional hazards, but there are also special regulations that may help them remain safe. Tanker truck drivers generally report loving their jobs and vowing never to leave them.