Abstract: The present paper focuses on the effects of single factors such as reservoirs, faults and unconformities which constitute the hydrocarbon carrier systems on the hydrocarbon carrier processes in the Huainan foreland thrust zone. In this thrust zone, there develop the sedimentary systems including the alluvial fan, braided stream, braided delta and shallow lake. The reservoir rocks are highly heterogeneous. The high-porosity and high-permeability sandstones are believed to be the main pathways for hydrocarbon migration. The fault systems and their patterns have offered good carrier conditions for the rapid vertical hydrocarbon migration. The development of the unconformities has provided good carrier spaces for the large-scale lateral hydrocarbon migration. The integrated examination of the carrier system development and hydrocarbon distribution may facilitate the prediction and delineation of the favourable exploration targets.