Oilfield operations depend on far more than drilling rigs and pipelines—there’s an entire fleet of specialized vehicles that keeps everything moving. From lifting heavy equipment to hauling massive loads across rugged terrain, these trucks and trailers are the unsung heroes of the oil patch.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most commonly used transport and service vehicles in the oil and gas industry—and what makes each one essential to the job.
Picker Trucks
Also known as crane trucks, picker trucks are mobile lifting units equipped with hydraulic knuckle boom cranes. They’re used for:
- Lifting and placing heavy equipment (e.g., pumpjacks, tanks, pipe spools)
- Loading/offloading supplies on-site
- Emergency equipment recovery
Picker trucks range in capacity, typically from 5 to 50+ tons, and are often operated by certified crane operators. Their mobility and versatility make them invaluable on remote well sites.
Tandem Highboys
Tandem highboys are flatbed trailers mounted on a tandem-axle chassis, typically with high ground clearance and a rugged design for oilfield roads. They are used for:
- Hauling large and heavy loads (rig mats, skids, tanks, or pipe)
- Transporting drilling equipment between locations
- Moving mobile buildings or camp shacks
Their tandem axle design supports heavier payloads, and their open, elevated deck makes them ideal for quick load/unload operations in the field.
Pickup Truck
While not specialized in form, pickup trucks are the workhorses of the oilfield. Used by supervisors, technicians, and field crews, they are vital for:
- Personnel transport
- Hauling light tools, parts, and equipment
- Towing small trailers or utility equipment
4×4 capabilities, rugged suspension, and toolboxes are common customizations, allowing pickups to handle the tough terrain and long distances in remote oilfield areas.
Gooseneck Trailers
Gooseneck trailers are heavy-duty tow-behind trailers designed with a long, arched hitch that connects to a ball in the bed of a pickup truck. They offer:
- Greater stability and weight distribution than bumper-pull trailers
- Increased cargo space for skids, tanks, generators, and more
- Compatibility with ¾-ton and 1-ton pickups
They’re a popular option for hauling medium-weight loads where larger trucks aren’t practical.
Flatbed Trucks
Flatbed trucks feature an open, level bed with no sides or roof—ideal for transporting oversized or irregularly shaped loads. Common in oilfield logistics, they’re used for:
- Pipe, casing, and construction material transport
- Equipment delivery
- Multi-load operations
They can be single axle or tandem, and many are outfitted with tie-down points or winch systems for load security.
Tandem Trucks
Tandem trucks are any truck equipped with two rear axles (often both powered), which allows them to:
- Haul significantly heavier loads
- Distribute weight more evenly across the axles
- Navigate rough and soft terrain more effectively
These trucks may serve as water trucks, vac trucks, dump trucks, or bulk haulers, and they are built for both road travel and off-road mobility.
Winch Trucks
Winch trucks are equipped with heavy-duty hydraulic winches and reinforced decks, primarily used for:
- Loading and unloading oilfield equipment (like tanks or camp units)
- Moving rig components and skid buildings
- Vehicle and equipment recovery
- Hot shot services in Alberta
They often work in pairs or with load-rollers and gin poles to safely move heavy gear across lease roads or onto trailers.
Behind every successful oilfield operation is a fleet of powerful, specialized trucks and trailers. Whether it’s a nimble pickup checking a remote wellsite, a winch truck hauling out a tank, or a tandem highboy loaded with rig mats, each vehicle plays a key role in keeping the energy sector running smoothly.
Understanding the capabilities of each unit helps operators choose the right equipment for the job—and ensures safety, efficiency, and reliability on every project.