VLCC refers to a class of large oil tanker, larger than Suezmax and smaller than ULCC.

VLCC tankers are in the range of 200-320 dwt. They are used mostly for crude shipping, but can also handle dirty products (residual fuel oil).

VLCC crude tankers are typically used on long haul routes. They can not go through the Panama or Suez canals. They are also draft limited in which ports they can enter. Frequently draft limits are avoided by lightering cargoes onto or off of VLCCs using smaller ships.