How to Start an Oilfield Trucking Business in 2026 (Crude, Saltwater, Chemical)
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The demand for oilfield trucking, crude oil, saltwater, chemical, and frac sand hauling, remains strong heading into 2026. High production basins like the Permian generate enormous transport needs; for instance, operators often produce four to six barrels of produced water for every barrel of oil, which drives significant hauling volume for saltwater fleets. Because of these risks and volumes, many startups begin their journey by researching Oil & Gas Trucking Insurance to understand requirements before launching.
Here is a step‑by‑step guide to help you start your oilfield trucking company the right way.
1. Choose Your Hauling Segment
Oilfield trucking companies often specialise in one or more areas:
Produced Water (Saltwater) Hauling
Chemical Transport
Frac Sand Delivery
Certain segments, like saltwater and chemical hauling, carry higher environmental exposure because produced water is chemically complex, containing salts, hydrocarbons, metals, and other contaminants.
2. Form Your Business & Secure Legal Requirements
Set up your LLC or corporation, then apply for:
DOT/MC authority (if crossing state lines)
Hazmat endorsements (for chemicals)
State oilfield/waste hauling permits
EIN, IRP, and IFTA registration
Some states require environmental filings for companies hauling produced water or chemicals.
3. Acquire the Right Equipment
Oilfield trucking requires specialised units built for harsh conditions:
Vacuum trucks or vacuum trailers for saltwater
Crude oil tankers (105‑bbl / 130‑bbl)
Chemical tankers
Pneumatic trailers for frac sand
Daily maintenance is critical due to rough lease roads and high wear.
4. Build a Safety Program (Operator Requirement)
Major operators require robust safety documentation before issuing contracts. This includes:
Driver qualification files
PPE policy
Drug & alcohol compliance
Spill‑prevention procedures
OSHA‑aligned safety training
A strong safety program also helps lower insurance premiums.
5. Get Insurance Designed for Oilfield Trucking
Before you can haul a single load, operators will require specific coverage, such as:
Pollution Liability (critical for crude, chemicals, and saltwater)
Cargo / Trailer Coverage
Umbrella/Excess Liability
Pollution coverage is especially important since spills, even small ones, can trigger costly cleanup and environmental claims.
6. Get Approved With Operators & SWDs
Register with:
Major operators
Saltwater disposal (SWD) sites
ISNetworld, Avetta, Veriforce
Your approval depends on insurance, safety, and compliance documentation.
Start Your Oilfield Trucking Business With Wexford Insurance
Wexford Insurance works with oilfield trucking companies across the U.S., helping fleets secure operator‑approved insurance for crude, saltwater, chemical, and sand hauling.
👉 Request your Oilfield Trucking Insurance quote from Wexford Insurance today and start your 2026 operations fully protected and contract‑ready.
