Flatbed questions, how much physical work is involved?

I suggest following along on this thread:

Post flatbed load photos here V2.0

See pictures of all different types of loads, different securement methods, etc. Feel free to chime in on there with any questions. All the regular flatbed members on TTR are pretty good about giving advice and answering questions for anyone looking to join the trade.

Probably the most physical part of flatbed work is lugging tarps. But not every load gets tarped and in fact many flatbed drivers (myself included) never tarp anything at all.

 

Flatbed, Long Haul, and Specialized Trucking Company - Watt & Stewart

Hauling big tires is easy

 

Almost everything at “un-named” company is tarped, and they only offer you 2 eight foot drop lumber tarps per trailer, so if it’s sheet steel that needs tarped, do it with 8 foot drops. It’s very physically demanding, I worked for them some time back pulling dumps, when that division slowed down they allowed us to pull flatbed, I was in my early 30’s, good shape, and those tarps kicked my butt. Their “pre tarped” loads are simply that, they put the tarps on the load and the securement is up to you. Not a bad company, but don’t be fooled, it’s a lot of work. Driver facing cameras, and they’re pretty strict. Excellent maintenance though on their equipment.

 

You looking at Cypress?
They do a lot of drywall all over the southeastern region. Most places I have seen them, it is a drop and sort of hook. You will need to finish the securement and dress the tarps.

 

@TacomaCatdaddy --

In what kind of physical condition are you? Are you in good shape?

Tarping flatbed loads in Florida....in the summertime....will absolutely kick your butt...if you're not ready for it, physically (as eluded to, above)....even if you're still young!!!

Before joining a flatbed fleet with a Florida terminal....you might wanna spend 3-4 months (at least) doing daily gym workouts...plus some serious jogging.

Also: if I were in your shoes...I'd be looking for YouTube (or elsewhere) videos that discuss flatbed "fall prevention"...and how to minimize this risk.

In trucking....but especially in flatbed...you'll find out pretty quick why fleets love to hire military veterans.

--Lual

 

One "school of thought" on this....is learn the CDL world by pulling boxes, first--then get cute later, with other types of freight, if that's what you (still) want.

Dry van is the easiest/simplest way to get into the industry. Look for mostly (or all) "drop and hook" type loads. That's how I did it.

Nothing wrong with flatbed/open deck.

But if you go there, later...be sure to "buff up"....first.

--Lual