Planning to start with Swift soon and would just like to know a couple of things. Part of orientation is tie down training isn't it. Also could you tell me what type of tarps are used. Finally is there a book or something I could get to study prior to reporting that would help with safety and regulations dealing with Flatbedding. Really looking forward to driving for Swift and would just like to be prepared as much as possible.
There is a little book that truck stops sell that gives guide lines on load securement that JJ Keller publishes. Its called cargo securement and is handy. Do a google search and you can find it online.
You will attend 2 tie down classes in addition to being on the road with a flatbed trainer for 240 drive hours. We use 2 piece lumber tarps with flaps and 8' drops, they are heavy. We also have smaller steel tarps. No coil bags even though we pull a lot of coils. As far as the regs they are all right here http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety-security/safety-initiatives/cargo/cs-manual.htm
