First time ever pulling an open deck

I never had any formal training

Here is the FMCSA handbook
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety-security/safety-initiatives/cargo/cs-manual.htm

Here is a cheap book that I keep in the truck
http://www.jjkeller.com/webapp/wcs/...ent-Handbook-for-Drivers_10151_-1_10551_63087

 

I never flatbedded before but, i'm learning now. a friend of mine who is teaching me told me to secure the load to the trailer & it was a load of lumber. I used ever single strap (15); & when I got done, my buddy called me & asked me to come take them off cause I had them on so tight he couldn't. so he cut them off & told me I gotta buy him some new straps, lol. over securement is much better than needing 1 more strap or chain to have something properly secured per dot requirements, that's how i'll do it when I get in the flatbed job.

also, does anyone know who would hire a 21 yr otr driver for flats?

 

I wasn't trained either, pay attention to the guys who's stuff is neat and orderly. Not necessarily clean and shiny, just be on the look out

 

FWIW, just throwing straps and chains on something may not be the answer. Loads can shift as you're traveling some of these horrible roads. Some of them will shake you to death! Take the advice of Quickfarms and get the JJ Keller book on Cargo Securement. If your company is not going to train you, at least get some guidance from the book. Protect yourself and the ones you may injure if your load comes off that trailer.

Another tidbit: After your loaded, did you know that your are suppose to check your secured load at the first 50 miles? Also every 150 mile or 3 hours (which ever comes first). Be sure to record it in your logbook.

As others have said, analyze your load, then secure it. Take your time.

Much Success!
Bill

 

I've had some guys tell me "Call me when you need assistance securing - take a photo".
Problem is they tend to vanish around the time when I need help, naturally.
Most of this is common sense and you really can't over secure something anyway.

So, the few times I was questioning something - the shipper usually helped me and all was good.
They certainly don't want any damage to their freight, so they are usually happy to help or at least
check over your work.

Of course with that said, after they helped/advised me - they had me sign a disclaimer that they were not responsible
for any damage. Heh - well I guess thats fair.

Find some flatbed contacts...load your skateboard up, secure it and take photos...send them to your friends and see if
anyone sees any issue that you could then correct at the 1st rest/check stop you make.

Always take photos of the load when loaded. From all sides. If you notice something,
mark it on the BOL and have it initialed.

I also take photos just prior to delivery/off-loading.
Have them sign the BOL - "NO DAMAGE" before you leave.

Always CYA....always.
Don't want a cargo claim.

 

Do you mean 21 years old, or been driving for 21 years...?
Either way, here's a short list.

Melton Truck Lines
System Transport
Howard Transportation
Maverick

 

Good luck, you will be fine. I remember thinking back at how nervous I was at first. Just be cool and if you are in question just throw another strap.

 

Don't know about the others but Maverick does some real good flatbed training.

Much Success!
Bill

 

Buy this book, it has just about everything you need to know. And just use basic common sense, it's not too hard.... best of luck to ya.

http://www.atabusinesssolutions.com/ATA/ATAProductDetail.aspx?ProductId=2967

 

Can't you guys give him some good info?

It's Bravo Sierra that straps need to be 10ft. apart. You need 2 anywhere in the first 10 ft and 1 anywhere in each 10 ft thereafter. So you could have 19 feet between some straps and still be legal.

I can't believe no one caught that blunder in 2 days.