Bulk transport uses trucks tailored to the nature of the materials. Gravel, sand, grain, fertilizer, liquid products or industrial waste each require specific equipment depending on the type of load and the logistical constraints.
Dump trucks, sealed tankers and open flatbeds all serve distinct purposes. Here’s an overview of the main truck types used in this specialized field.
Truck transport for granular materials and heavy-duty sites
Granular materials make up a major share of bulk transport. Soil, sand, gravel and crushed stone are delivered daily to construction sites. These dense loads require heavy-duty vehicles designed for fast unloading.
To understand why bulk hauling is the right choice, check out our guide on the benefits of bulk transport.
10-wheel dump trucks
10-wheel dump trucks are the go-to solution for hauling granular materials in bulk. They typically handle up to 15 tons per load. Their hydraulic system allows for controlled rear dumping, which speeds up unloading on-site. This setup is ideal for frequent deliveries of moderate volumes.
End-dump trailers
End-dump trailers carry larger volumes than 10-wheelers. Pulled by a highway tractor, they can load up to 38 tons of granular goods. They’re often used on quarry sites, in large-scale industrial operations, and for major municipal projects.
Walking floor trailers
Walking floor trailers use a conveyor system to gradually unload materials. This helps prevent sticking, especially with moist products. They’re particularly effective for spreading road salt or distributing fertilizer.
Trucks for snow, debris or industrial waste
For snow removal, sealed dump bodies prevent leaks during transport. Reinforced sidewalls help contain the heavy load.
Debris and industrial waste require abrasion-resistant equipment, often lined with wear plates to extend the truck’s service life.
Tanker trucks and liquid bulk transport
Transporting liquids in bulk requires specialized vehicles to ensure safe handling. Fuels, chemicals and liquid food products all need tailored setups depending on their properties.
Fuel and hydrocarbon tankers
These tankers carry gasoline, diesel and hydrocarbons to fuel stations. They’re divided into separate compartments to prevent mixing. Capacity ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 liters depending on the configuration.
Integrated pumps handle the unloading process by transferring liquids to underground tanks. These vehicles meet strict safety standards and include anti-overflow systems.
Chemical tankers (ADR)
Transporting chemicals requires full ADR compliance. These tankers are built with corrosion-resistant tanks to safely handle hazardous materials. Their size is adjusted based on the density of the liquids.
Food-grade tankers
Food-grade tankers are used for transporting milk, oils and other liquid food products. Stainless steel tanks protect product quality throughout the journey.
Thermal insulation helps maintain the right temperature during transport. Capacities typically range from 15,000 to 30,000 liters to optimize bulk delivery.
Specialized configurations by cargo type
Flatbeds for oversized or irregular loads
Flatbed trailers carry bulky or irregularly shaped freight. With no side walls, they allow easy loading of industrial equipment, prefabricated structures or machinery.
Straps and chains are used to secure the load during transport. These trailers are commonly used in manufacturing and construction sectors, with load capacity depending on axle count.
See our flatbed transport service for more details.
Container chassis with locking systems
Container chassis are designed to transport standard 20- or 40-foot shipping containers. They feature automatic locking systems that secure the containers during transit. These mechanisms speed up loading and unloading.
This setup streamlines intermodal transport between ports, warehouses and distribution sites. It complies with international standards to ensure compatibility with all container types.
Crane trucks for on-site lifting
Crane trucks combine transport and lifting operations on remote or hard-to-access job sites. With an integrated crane, they can move and position heavy materials without needing separate lifting equipment.
Lifting capacity varies by model, with some able to handle loads of several tons. These trucks are ideal for installing industrial parts, prefabricated elements or construction components.
This all-in-one service helps reduce both costs and delays on-site.
What businesses expect from bulk freight transport in 2025
MTQ compliance and interregional regulations
Businesses expect strict adherence to Quebec’s Ministry of Transport (MTQ) standards. This includes the handling of hazardous materials and the certification of all vehicles involved. Transport providers must stay up to date with changing regulations to keep services compliant and operational.
Fleet reliability and preventive maintenance
Mechanical reliability is non-negotiable. Companies look for transporters who apply rigorous preventive maintenance to their truck fleet. This ensures service continuity and avoids costly loading delays.
Operational tracking, real-time location, fast response
Businesses demand full visibility on bulk transport operations. Real-time GPS tracking helps monitor vehicle location and streamline delivery routes. The ability to respond fast during urgent situations sets reliable carriers apart, especially when rapid deployment of equipment is needed to move materials.
Our bulk hauling service
We provide a specialized fleet for bulk trucking and soil transport operations.
Whether it’s soil, gravel, agricultural products or industrial materials, we handle deliveries across Quebec, with strong coverage in Montréal, Laval and the North Shore.
Request your free estimate for bulk hauling services tailored to your needs.