A12 near Ipswich reopens 24 hours after driver killed in crash
Supt Chapman said: "We had concerns that fuel was leaking underneath the tanker, both as a fire risk as well as environmental impact, and risk assessments and safety measures were carried out, with contingency plans also made with our partners."
He said specialist equipment was used at about 15:00 on Sunday to decant the fuel and remove it.
He thanked drivers and the public for being patient.
The incident happened where the A12 meets the A14 with the road closed between junction 32b for Capel St Mary and the Copdock Interchange
A diversion was put in place and a major incident was declared by the emergency services.
According to police, the tanker was carrying more than 38,000 litres (8,358 gallons) of fuel.
Any witnesses or anyone with information was urged to contact the force.