Best way to start and learn heavy haul

Discussion in 'Heavy Haul Trucking Forum' started by IluvCATS, Jul 4, 2017.

  1. IluvCATS

    IluvCATS Road Train Member

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    I currently have 1 year OTR flatbed with Melton. They are the only experience I have. I am not unhappy with Melton. Some day I would like more responsibilities and more pay. What companies offering heavy haul should I consider? I live in the NW. Thx
     
    Last edited: Jul 4, 2017
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    www.daseke.com owns various types of flatbed companies. Eleven companies are listed on their website. That's all I can offer because I haven't done heavy haul. Some only require 3 - 6 mos. driving experience, so you're well qualified to enter the heavy haul training program.
     
    Last edited: Jul 4, 2017
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  4. Keep with Melton get a few years under your belt. Be polite approach a heavy hauler ask questions. Be polite, write down the names of heavies you see on the road. Enquire to the company see what they need as qualifications to work for them. Set a goal
     
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  5. If and when you are in the skateboard opendeck industry.

    You are held to a higher standard

    Don't sit around jaw jacking at the coffee counter.

    Dress for work I mean pants ,boots and a presentable shirt.

    Take pride in your load, no matter if it's a lumber or simple hayload. We notice always.


    You never know one day the company you want to haul for is the driver in a flat or step sitting next to you, just listening to you and looking at your truck.

    When we don't park at a mega fuel stop we do this for a reason. Sleeping in the summer with Windows down (yes we put window screens up) and no refer running next to ya is an experience you must try.

    Never and I mean never assume it's good enough. Check your trailer, check your chains, straps and your load.
    @Chewy352 he has done it and is still learning.
     
    Last edited: Jul 4, 2017
    Reason for edit: Adding info
  6. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    Mechanicsburg, PA
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    Great post! I just can't agree with sleeping with the windows down in the summer. LOL.
     
  7. Jumbo

    Jumbo Road Train Member

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    Appleton, Wisconsin
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    A lot of crane companies in your part of the country. One year of flatbed is more than enough to get your foot in the door. Find one close to you and call them. Don't depend on their website telling you if they are hiring or not.
     
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  8. Landincoldfire

    Landincoldfire Heavy Load Member

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    New Holland, Pa
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    Have a look at Southern Pines. They are a part of PGT and have interesting loads. Having a TWIC card and Hazmat endorsement is recommended. They can start you out easy and move you up as you gain experience.
     
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  9. Landincoldfire

    Landincoldfire Heavy Load Member

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    Just noticed you're in the North West. Probably not a good pick for you. Never get you home.
     
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  10. IluvCATS

    IluvCATS Road Train Member

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    Seattle, WA
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    Thanks. I do have both twic and hazmat. I use them both at Melton. I will check southern pines out anyways. Any ideas are good. Just to see what's out there. Chinatowns link got me very interested in SPD. But it looks like I may have to wait 1 more year. I could happily stay where I am if it is a means to an end. 2 years with same company as a solid foundation. Thx again.
     
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  11. kylefitzy

    kylefitzy Road Train Member

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    Kansas city,Mo
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    Pretty good chance you can get hired at Spd with just a year flatbed as long as you have a good record. I have been here 2 and a half years and love it. We don't do a lot of heavy haul (what little we do is equipment out of the ports in the north west) but we do a lot of over dimensional loads. Large aircraft parts, pre fab barn kits ect. Im hooked to a 16' wide 70' long wing at the moment. Feel free to ask any question you have or pm me.
     
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