Crude carriers, product carriers, and gas carriers are classified as what type of vessels?

Crude carriers, product carriers, and gas carriers are classified as tankers because they are specifically designed to transport liquid cargoes in bulk. Tankers have specialized hull shapes and pumping systems that allow for the efficient loading, unloading, and transportation of various types of liquids, including crude oil and other petroleum products. The construction of these vessels often includes dedicated storage tanks to ensure the safe transport of volatile and hazardous materials, maintaining the integrity of the cargo.

This classification is distinct from other vessels such as bulk carriers, which are designed to transport solid bulk commodities, container ships that carry cargo in intermodal containers, and general cargo ships that can carry a wide variety of goods in packages or crates, but typically not in liquid form. Each vessel type has been engineered for its specific cargo requirements, highlighting the unique function of tankers in the maritime industry.