Drivers moving freight tied to the bourbon and spirits industry may soon see more specialized tanker operations entering the mix. Averitt Express has expanded its dedicated transportation services to include tanker operations for bourbon distilleries, marking the next step in its long-running partnerships with spirit producers.
The company announced the expansion Dec. 18, noting that the new tanker capability allows distilleries to move spirits in bulk rather than relying solely on packaged or barrelized shipments.
Why Tanker Transportation Is Being Added
As bourbon production continues to scale, distilleries are handling larger volumes of product moving in and out of facilities that are often located in tight or high-traffic areas. Averitt says tanker transportation helps address those challenges by streamlining how spirits are moved between production stages.
“Transporting spirits in bulk improves operational flow, reduces congestion in dense areas and enhances safety as production grows,” said Todd Harrett, Averitt’s director of corporate business development. He said the addition reflects the company’s effort to address operational needs through flexible transportation options.
For drivers, tanker operations bring a different skill set and safety focus compared to dry van or flatbed work, particularly when operating around active production facilities.
Built on Existing Distillery Work
The tanker expansion is not a standalone move. Averitt has worked with bourbon distilleries for years, supporting production through barrel movements, dedicated transportation, and just in time delivery of glass and other materials.
According to the company, these services have evolved into what it describes as multiphase customer relationships, with transportation solutions adapting as production demands increase.
Bulk spirit transportation now represents the next phase of that relationship, giving distilleries another option as output continues to rise.
Safety and Long-Term Operations Focus
Averitt leadership says the tanker addition aligns with its broader operational approach across dedicated services.
“We continue to leverage Averitt’s Power of One concept to provide solutions to the bourbon and spirits industry,” said Brett Sloan, senior operations manager of dedicated operations at Averitt. “Our dedication to excellence and safety sets the foundation for a strong and successful future.”
For drivers interested in dedicated work, tanker operations tied to distillery production can offer consistent lanes, repeat customers, and a strong emphasis on safety procedures.
Source: Transport Topics
