flatbedding tricks of the trade?

Go to home depot and buy the following: A 7' piece of pvc pipe to thread chains and/or straps through your load (invaluable), a ladder to get up on loads (8' capability that will hold your weight), a portable tool kit, wd 40, a large crowbar (you will need it to pull those airgunned screws and nails out), large hammer or mallet, gloves (cheap kind and lined for winter; those chains will freeze your hands in the cheap ones). Also, buy 2 sets of coveralls (one for winter; while other drivers are freezing their gonads off out there you will be toasty warm. it will be the best $100 you ever spent even if you only use them once a year) and a winter face mask.

I am sure they are others that I forgot but other drivers will cover what I didnt. Have fun! Flatbedding is the best!!!

 

a strap winder is a must, and a 5th wheel puller makes it easy to reach high d rings from the ground

 

I personally dont like the strap winders, because using them it winds the straps on the edges of the winch and after I tighten them (after they are saved after using) its hard to pull them back out.

You can never have too much securment!!

Like the other guy said get good gloves and some good coveralls.

Get a good winch bar.

I cant think of too much else right now but just starting off it will take you a while to secure and tarp etc. but after awhile of doing it you will get you a personal routine going and it will go a lot faster. That is about all I can think of that will save you time (routine) the above things will just help make it eaiser.

Flatbedding is the best, other flats will help you out its more of a brotherhood pulling flats. I love it there is nothing else I would want to pull. I think you will like it too.

 

An old hand told me this and you can get them for free.
Get scraps of carpet to place on steel plates on the edges otherwise, you're going to get good at patching torn tarps.

 

I use a hand held strap winder and never have a problem. I don't leave my straps in the winch when not in use.

 

Same here...
When I'm done, they're rolled up and locked away.
Straps and other items tend to "Walk away" if left out.

 

I keep mine put away too, I would think leaving them rolled up in the winch would shorten use of them being exposed to weather all the time, rain,snow,road salt,etc...