A truck’s tank capacity varies by model, brand, and type of use. On average, a diesel tank holds between 400 and 1,200 liters. Some trucks even have dual fuel tanks, bringing the total capacity to 1,500 liters or more. In this article, we explain how many liters of diesel a truck can hold, how this varies depending on the situation, and why tank capacity matters to drivers and transport companies.
How many litres of diesel does a truck hold?
Most trucks run on diesel and are fitted with a large tank so they can cover long distances without refueling. The average truck tank holds around 600 to 1,000 liters of diesel.
However, some models have a smaller tank capacity of around 400 litres, for example those used for regional transport. International transport often requires more capacity and therefore larger tanks, so drivers do not have to stop as often.
Examples of tank capacities by truck type:
- small truck (urban transport): ± 400–600 liters
- Large truck (long distances): ± 800–1,200 liters
- Combination with a dual tank: up to approx. 1,500 liters
Why is tank capacity important?
The tank capacity determines how many kilometres a truck can travel without refuelling. Large tanks mean fewer stops, lower costs and greater flexibility in route planning. However, the extra weight must be included when calculating the axle load. Carriers therefore match tank capacity to the journey length, the load and the countries they travel through.
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