Diary of a current Swift flatbed driver

And since the flatbed division is small do the guys help on another and how hard is it to kno one another on a first name basis?

 

All flat bedders help each other out if one sees another needing help. I have had guys help me fold up my tarps and I have helped others do it to. Those windy days are no fun and those winter days when the tarps are filled with ice are not much fun either.

 

I'm surprised when I see a driver I don't recognize now days, at least on the western side. As for the help thats pretty hit and miss, swift wants us to help other drivers though and some loads its really appreciated, big ### spools that need to be tarped for instance lol.

 

Just got my dot physical card and will recieve my cdl permit tomorrow passes my airbrake & combination test first time just have to pass my general knowledge part then ill be in millington come monday im ready to go flatbebbing wish me look Guy's and be safe out there

 

One might think that a pre-loaded flatbed with ladders (342 pieces-just over 10,000 lbs) would be an easy load.......

The trailer they were on sucked (not enough winches, winches would not move, and would not accept a portable winch). Used as many 4 inch straps as we could (considering winch placement) and every 2 inch strap we had (remind me to carry way more than three 2-inch straps) and it still settled and shifted all the way to Denver (PU near El Paso). Had to retighten every strap several times and had to undo and reposition 1 of the 4 inch straps 3 times (poor placement).

After delivery.

 

I got a message that there is a tie down class coming up Sept 25-30 for $250 bucks. I would like to attend really just to learn tie down stuff, but I guess I have to apply like it's a job. They want to know what type of truck the applyee has, service failures, how many advances the driver takes out etc. Message also said it would cost about $2500-$3000 to outfit a truck to flatbed utility. They encourage O/O's to sign a new lease for a new Cascadia already outfitted for such.

 

Did this come from Swift?

 

Yes I'm a Swiftie, I pull vans. Got the T660 Aerodyne sleeper though, not sure if that will fly for pulling flatbeds.

 

Scott,
I knew you are a Swifty, was just curious if you read if off the Qualcom.