Five Reasons To Become A Flatbed Driver Right Now!

Flatbed truck drivers transport everything from furniture to construction materials. They may also load and unload their trucks and ensure their goods are securely secured.

Flatbed truck driving is an intriguing job since it necessitates a high level of attention to detail. When moving freight on flatbeds, drivers must follow all safety standards, including securing loose things with straps or other measures.

Flatbed Driver’s Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Transport and deliver massive, bulky, or unwieldy objects with a flatbed truck.
  2. Before and after journeys, inspect the vehicle and document any concerns with the truck.
  3. To guarantee timely delivery, secure the load using tarps and chains.
  4. Plan routes based on traffic conditions, road closures, and construction zones.
  5. Maintain contact with dispatch to report any changes in schedule or delays.
  6. Deliver products to customers and collect money as needed.
  7. Assist with loading and unloading the flatbed as required.
  8. Follow all DOT regulations and company policies.
  9. Maintain the cleanliness of the cab and trailer.
  10. Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
  11. Report any accidents or incidents to dispatch promptly.
  12. Count the number of hours and miles driven.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • CDL Class A
  • 2 years of flatbed truck driving experience (or comparable vehicle)
  • A perfect driving records
  • Passing a DOT physical and drug test
  • Capability to lift and secure hefty objects
  • Understanding of federal, state, and local regulations

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

  1. 4 years of flatbed truck driving experience (or comparable vehicle)
  2. Knowledge of tarping and strapping loads
  3. Hazmat certification
  4. Experience with a winch

Flatbed Driver’s Salary and Outlook

Salaries for flatbed truck drivers vary depending on their level of expertise, company size, and geographic region.

● Annual Median Salary: $62,500 ($30.05/hour)

● Annual Salary in the Top 10%: $112,000 ($53.85/hour)

Flatbed truck driver employment is predicted to rise moderately over the next decade.

Five Benefits of Becoming a Flatbed Driver:

Here are the benefits of being a flatbed trucker:

1. You Get To Haul Different Goods

You will not have to haul the same thing daily when you are a flatbed truck driver. For example, you could be moving lumber one day and transporting a tractor the next.

The advantage of this is that each day feels different, and you sometimes feel like you are doing other things.

2. It Will Keep You Active

Flatbed trucking differs from other trucking professions requiring you to sit for long periods. Instead of having someone else load and unload your trailer, you will be responsible for doing it yourself.

A lack of physical activity might have a severe impact on your health. Not to mention the time and effort required to sit for extended periods.

3. More Time at Home

Spending extra time at home is one of the many advantages of being a flatbed truck driver. Unlike typical transportation, where items are delivered to several sites, you will only have one. Consider it this way. A flatbed can only deliver one mobile home, whereas a reefer can transport many shipments to multiple sites.

On weekends, many businesses that rely on flatbed truck drivers to transport their goods are closed. You will have more time at home with your friends and family.

4. You Get Paid More

Because flatbed truck drivers are in high demand, you can earn up to $10,000 more than a conventional truck driver. This is because they are paid during the loading and unloading operation.

5. You Will Grow in Your Career

Flatbed trucking allows you to get experience hauling odd-sized freight, each with its skill requirements. This experience opens the door to transporting more difficult goods, such as hazardous and tanker loads, increasing a driver’s potential earnings.

Conclusion

Flatbed truck driving is an excellent career choice for those who enjoy being on the road and seeing the country. It is also an excellent alternative for people looking to advance their careers as business drivers or owner-operator.

There are numerous things you may do to prepare for a successful career as a flatbed truck driver. First, make sure that you have a clean driving record and that you can pass a drug test. A valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with endorsements for air brakes and double/triple trailers is also required.

Next, gain experience behind the wheel of a large truck by working as a long-haul or short-haul truck driver. This will teach you how to manage various loads safely and efficiently. Finally, utilize training options provided by your employer or third-party sources.

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