First time flatbed driver

Just always err on the side of caution...if you're unsure throw another strap/chain. I learned a lot from older drivers, soak up what they tell you. I'm grateful for the courtesy and help that was shown to me those years ago.

 

Just remember, that is called "short strapping" and Washington State will write a ticket for that, they consider it an unsecured load. I will admit to doing that myself but keep in mind that's not the way the winch was designed to work. If I'm running something across town I'll use that method but if I'm going any distance, changing weather, temperatures etc. I run it through the winch, just a personal preference. I know there are other states that frown on it but don't know which ones, I only know for sure about Washington because I sat there as a driver got cited for it and all mine got checked.

 

alwasys secure a load (dont care what it is) as if your family is riding right behind you all the time

 

One more thing. Dont be shy. What Im saying is, YOU and only YOU are responsible for the load. So make sure the loader, puts it where you want it. Some guys are great and meticulous a bout it and some dont give a crap. If it needs to move an inch in any direction, make them move it. Know what your loading and how you want it loaded before you start. That way you are sure, when he starts. In the end, even if you have made a mistake (like I have) after he is done. Tell him you messed up and get it right. Better to have a guy pissed for a bit, than get a over weight ticket.
Or have your over hang to far and not be able to drive at night etc... Im sure I ll think of more mistakes I have made... HAHAHAHA.. I fricken love this job!!!!

 

One of the myriad things I wonder about is this: when asking a loader to place the load, how does a driver determine where to have him put what to stay in balance on the scale?

 

You may have to 'step off' your trailer to determine where center is, my trailer is one stakepocket ahead of center light. You will get into an argruement with at least one forklift driver a month with him telling you that "I been loading trucks for 20+ years" usually by my comment telling him "I don't care if you were born on a forklift you will load it like I want or you can take it off my trailer"By using a few extra minutes in security of your load you can save hours trying to fix what you should have already done, especially tarping

 

Thanks for the tips! I have one more day til I'm home from my last reefer run. Going to flatbed next week.

 

OR was on a kick for a while too where they'd look through the winch to make sure the strap passed all the way through it.

 

It depends on a lot of things. King pin location, etc. The best is to measure your trailer and find the center and if there's not a stake pocket or a light just mark the center on your rub rail. The first load you haul load it perfectly centered on the trailer and weigh it. You may find you need to load a little ahead or behind center to get it to balance perfect. Once you figure that out loading will be a breeze no matter what it is.