A vessel designed to transport liquid cargo in bulk, including crude oil, refined petroleum products, chemicals, and vegetable oils. Tankers are categorised by size and cargo type, ranging from small coastal tankers to ultra-large crude carriers.
Category: Ship Types & Classification
On The Maritime
The desks where this concept is measured.
Related terms
More in Ship Types & Classification
ReeferA refrigerated cargo vessel designed to transport temperature-sensitive perishable commodities such as fruit, meat, fish, and dairy products.Ro-RoRoll-on/Roll-off vessel designed for cargo that is driven on and off the ship on wheels, such as cars, trucks, trailers, and heavy machinery.SuezmaxThe largest vessel size capable of transiting the Suez Canal in a laden condition, typically between 120,000 and 200,000 DWT with a maximum beam of about 50 metres and a draft limit of approximately 20.1 metres.SupramaxA dry bulk carrier with a deadweight tonnage between 50,000 and 65,000 DWT, usually fitted with cranes capable of handling 30 tonnes or more.TugA powerful, compact vessel designed to assist larger ships by towing or pushing them during berthing, unberthing, and manoeuvring in ports and confined waterways.ULCCUltra Large Crude Carrier, the largest class of tanker with a deadweight tonnage exceeding 320,000 DWT.
Back to DictionaryEntry updated May 2026