What type of bed?

Don't quote me right but I think DOT don't allow sleepers on pick up's,not sure but I think that's the rule.

 

With a flatbed you have the option of hotshotting smaller loads without a trailer .

 

Sure they allow them , just don't log sleeper in them if they don't meet the spec's .

 

flat beds are good, some of my best paying loads have been hauled just on the truck bed. also nice when you have a nice bed that you can move from truck to truck.

 

I run a 5500 with an 11' flatbed. I wouldn't even get into this without a flatbed as fast and easy loading/unloading is super important and boxes make that a pain. We don't load at a dock, just get things forked onto the bed or the trailer.

As to the 3500/4500, go take a look at c&c's that don't have beds on yet at your dealer side by side. The 4500/5500s are built a whole lot beefier and the rear ends will last longer. The number one complaint I see about 3500s is having to have the rear ends rebuilt.