difference in driving a flatbed?

I've seen Melton flats labeled 53', so in that case no.

 

Duh! It didn't dawn on me you might have been thinking shorter in terms of length. That would have made more sense to me. LOL

 

From what they told me all Melton is 53ft flats. Some companies and o/o run 48 stepdecks

 

Have to secure your own load on a flatbed. Make sure its tarped, strapped, if required, weight is distributed, or you'll tip over on the median. Then its a years vacation.

 

True that. When you get a chance to watch split axle drivers get "into the hole" in a truck stop, watch how they do it. They don't get into a 90º jackknife, they will round their backing turn to "slide" the trailer into the hole. It's why you'll often see split axle flatbeds "making" a parking space next to a curb in a packed truck stop, it's easier on the trailer tires.

While you rarely have to back into position at a customer, in truck stops you'll have to get the knack of "following" your trailer into the hole to avoid tearing up your trailer tires. Think of it this way, if you are pulling out of a parking spot in a truck stop you can usually do it without getting more than a 45º angle with your trailer as you pull out wide. Do that in reverse, starting wide of the hole, and you'll be able to back into almost any hole without having to dump your rear axle air bags.

 

One other thing about flatbed versus pulling dry van or reefer, you WILL get exercise and be out in the elements. Once I get my own truck I'll be removing the passenger seat to make that my "mud room". Keeping the cab clean will be a challenge. No boots or shoes in the back helps. Plan on spending money on gloves, you'll go through gloves about every month, even if you get the best buffalo hide gloves money can buy. Read up on the tips and tricks of flatbedding thread.

 

You will see all types of freight, pulling a flatbed. Vehicles, machinery, lumber, steel, shingles, bricks etc. All have different ways they need to be tarped, and secured. Sometimes the freight is top heavy, which is a challenge in itself. Some things are secured with chains and binders, others with straps. All things you need to consider.