Been driving for 2 years now, primarily dry van and flatbed.

just got hired as a tanker driver, any tips from old timers?

 

1.slow down...
2.learn EVERYTHING about the product(s) that you haul - This will take some research and it will almost certainly involve those at other companies and at the places you load and or unload. Far too many drivers don't know much about any and are pretty happy to be ignorant. Far too many who know a little bit, sometimes protect their limited knowledge to make themselves feel smarter/superior
3.Be on time and follow the HOS and other regs TO THE LETTER and do not deviate (favors)
4.Inspect your equipment to include the paperwork/permits/tank information
5.slow down!

 

It's all I've done now for the past 12 years. It's not all roses on the tanker side either, no more doors and docks but pumps and hoses. Learn to get smooth in operating the tank combo and don't catch yourself short, the liquid surge is real and can manhandle the truck. Good luck.

 

driving a tanker you really have to be extra careful. The sloshing can be annoying. If you are an extremely careful and defensive driver, this may be for you, but if you are a little impatient and get in a rush or generally more spirited driver, I would not go that route. especially not food grade tanks. swerving to avoid a hazard can turn a tank over more easily that a dry van with low freight.