Abstract: A transport tanker and a method of reinforcing a transport tanker are generally provided. The transport tanker may include a tank body, and a coupling structure, including a web extending from the tank body, for transferring a towing load to the tank body. A load spreading structure may be affixed to the tank body and configured to spread at least a portion of a load experienced by the tank body in a region proximate a terminal end of the web. The load spreading structure may include a reinforcing member including a elongated U-shaped member including two legs joined at a first end by an arcuate section. A respective one of the two legs may be at least partially disposed on opposed sides of the web with web at least partially received within an open second end of the U-shaped member.