Unlock Flexibility in Bulk Liquid & Gas Logistics with Contract Tanks

In an industry where tank availability, cost efficiency, and operational flexibility are essential, Suttons’ Contract Tank solutions provide a smarter way to manage bulk liquid and gas logistics. Whether you need short-term rentals or a fully managed fleet, our leasing options help businesses reduce capital investment, optimise operations, and ensure seamless supply chain efficiency.

To explore the benefits in more detail, we spoke with Kevin Herzberg, Business Development Manager, about how Contract Tanks can help businesses stay competitive, adapt to changing demands, and enhance sustainability.

Read the full Q&A below.

Can you give us a quick introduction to your role at Suttons International?

I’m the Business Development Manager for Suttons International’s Contract Tank business. My role involves developing our contract tank strategy and business development plans, building lease models, and overseeing contract tank projects from initial request to tank release. I work closely with our global teams to ensure we provide the best solutions for our customers.

For those unfamiliar, what exactly is a Contract Tank, and how does it benefit customers?

Our Contract Tank service provides customers with access to specialised and dedicated isotanks for transporting liquids and gases. These tanks can be leased on a short-term or long-term basis, offering flexibility to meet varying business needs. Suttons also provides tailored solutions, from modifying existing tanks to designing and constructing new isotanks to meet specific customer requirements.

Key benefits of our Contract Tank service:

• Cost Savings: Avoids the significant capital investment of purchasing tank containers. Leasing also reduces maintenance and operational costs, as Suttons handles upkeep.
• Operational Flexibility: Customers can easily on-hire or off-hire tanks based on fluctuating demand. Short-term leases provide adaptability for temporary projects or seasonal needs.
• Global Access to Specialised Equipment: Immediate availability of high-quality, compliant tanks across our global network ensures rapid scalability to meet changing operational requirements.

What types of industries or businesses typically benefit the most from Contract Tank solutions?

A wide range of industries benefit from Contract Tanks, but key examples include:

• Companies with specialised products: Some products require specific tank specifications, such as heating, linings, or customised valve configurations. Others need newly built tanks or have complex pre-cargo restrictions.
• Businesses requiring operational flexibility: Companies with fluctuating demand benefit from leasing rather than owning a fixed fleet.
• Companies looking to reduce costs: Leasing tanks eliminates the need for large capital investments in equipment.

What are some of the key challenges customers face in bulk liquid logistics, and how do Contract Tanks help solve them?

One of the biggest challenges in the current market is tank availability. Delays in securing tanks can lead to costly disruptions and dissatisfied customers. By providing a dedicated fleet, our Contract Tank service ensures that tanks are always available when needed, helping businesses avoid downtime and maintain efficiency.

Can you share an example of how Suttons’ Contract Tank solution has provided value to a customer?

At Suttons, we offer two types of leasing services: Pure Lease and Lease + Fleet Management. While I can’t name specific examples, our customers benefit significantly from our Lease + Fleet Management option. This service goes beyond just supplying equipment—we actively manage the fleet, helping customers streamline their operations and save both time and money.

With sustainability being a major focus in logistics, how do Contract Tanks contribute to reducing environmental impact?

Our contract tank business plays a role in sustainability by optimising logistics routes and ensuring maximum tank utilisation. By reducing empty movements and improving efficiency, we help lower overall emissions and minimise the environmental impact of bulk liquid transportation.

How do you see the demand for Contract Tanks evolving in the next few years?

The demand for dedicated fleets is set to grow as chemical companies face increasing pressure to deliver on time and adapt quickly to changing market conditions. The specialty chemicals sector, in particular, is expected to expand, requiring customised and specialised tank containers. Companies that invest in flexibility and reliability will be best positioned for success.

Finally, what’s one thing potential customers should know about Suttons’ Contract Tank offering?

At Suttons, we don’t just see our customers as clients—we see them as strategic partners. We focus on building long-term relationships based on trust and collaboration.

Our fleet management approach helps customers optimise tank utilisation, improving efficiency and service levels. If we can help our customers enhance their offering to their own clients, it creates a win-win situation for everyone.

Additionally, we offer:

• Flexible lease options, including short-term leases and early return options.
• Lease-to-purchase solutions for businesses looking to transition from leasing to ownership.
• Customised equipment investments to meet specific operational needs.
• A global inventory of standard and specialised tanks, combining the best of leasing company flexibility with the logistics expertise of a global operator.

Suttons’ Contract Tank solutions are designed to help businesses reduce costs, improve flexibility, and ensure operational reliability—all while benefiting from our technical expertise and global network.