Ship types

Chemical tanker

By Admirals Atlas editorial team · Last updated: 22 September 2026

A chemical tanker carries liquid chemicals or other noxious liquid substances in bulk. Its cargo spaces and associated systems must suit the products carried; different products can require different containment, segregation, and cleaning arrangements.

It differs from an oil tanker in the products it is designed and certified to carry. Both use cargo tanks, but the liquid cargo alone does not establish the ship type.

Further reading: IMO International Bulk Chemical Code.