Dry van vs flatbed for a fairly new driver?

I also did flatbed running 48 states & Canada. No complaints about that either. That was with paper logs. I prefer night driving, so if I had a load that required wide load flags, I'd take the flags off at night and put them back on at sunrise. I didn't do any loads that required an escort.

 

The only cons I see with flat bed is you'll be responsible for ensuring your load is secure with ropes, straps, or chains, if something comes loose you run the real risk of the load coming off, you'll also have to do tarping if you get caught out in the rain then your load can be dampened, or even ruined if you don't tarp. This is never an issue when your hauling dry van. The positive is you won't be loading/ unloading on docks and have to pay lumbers to unload, so may not face the same delays.

 

It all depends on what your needs are. Can they run you? How much of the US do they run? Will they train you? Some flatbed companies pay percentage. If they're willing to train you, and its a reputable company, I'd listen to what they have to say. What all are they offering(pay, benefits, hometime, weekly miles, equipment)?

 

I'm guessing the company doesn't run West. I won't name the company, he can do that if he wants.
"Flatbed carrier East of the Rocky Mountains."

 

I'm wondering if it's PI & I. That actually wouldn't be a bad flatbed outfit if he goes there. Outside of Melton, Western, and P&S, I can't really think of too many that run west...maybe Paul Transportation?

 

I was driving for Western Express at the time. No negative experiences while working there.