Tips and Tricks of flatbedding

This only works if you are delivering to the same people a lot. @G13Tomcat

We had one road construction crew that we delivered culverts to, either round or box and sometimes manholes. Occasionally we would show up with donuts for the crew. Maybe 2 dozen and it was always the first load in the morning. I can tell you that this motivated the crew. We did not bring them every time but it got to the point that they would have us unloaded before we could put our chains away. Can you imagine 15-20 minutes from the time you pull up at a construction site and driving away?

Just a little tip for you local guys. Lets them know that they are appreciated too. Us drivers would pay for this ourselves, not the company. I forgot about this till this evening. Otr drivers and door slammers might try this if they go to the same place a lot. Might get you a door quicker.

 

Agree on the occasional "biscuit"
Isn't appropriate everywhere but really pays someplaces.

When I ran end dump, would grab a coffee and or danish/donut, whatever for the loader operator or site crew. Not all the time, but enough that they knew you might!

Goes along way to getting loaded the way you like and having a nicer site to back into!!

 

I have done the same with shippers and receivers, offer them some candy mama packs me. Places I load or unload often.

 

You mean flying debris and sh#t?
There's no solution to basic glasses, best invest in the more durable stuff.

 

If it's really windy on a dirt lot I wear safety goggles over my glasses to keep from getting dust and grit in my eyes.

 

You would be surprised at things that can make life a lot better.

Some things I like to have plenty on hand.

Pens, good writing pens with a bit of heft to them.
( yes, with company name and number on them)

Hats. plain ball cap style. Liked to find the ones most of the drivers didn't have ( yes, company logo)

Hi-vis vests. yep company logo on it. but good ones.
made the boss order several cases, was not real happy at first. it payed off. they are a bit expensive, so handed out with care and consideration.

Gloves. plain leather gloves, the ones you buy 100 pairs for like 1.75 a pair.

T-Shirts. Hi-vis and company logo. selective in handing these out.

Business cards. no name on them. A company business card with addres and all the phone, fax etc. just no name, you write your name and info on it.
Sort of gives it the "personal" touch.

 

Take your bungee and fold it in half and stick it in the end of your winch bar. Now you can use it to hang bungees much higher then before.

 

I use cork underlay instead of carpet for a tarp insurance. Works well in the cold!

 

I keep "Otter Pops" in my freezer in my truck. (Popsicle in a little bag kind) you get like 100 for $3. I hand them out almost every day. Shippers, receivers, other drivers. Amazing what happens when you come around next time. I usually buy a box a month in the summer time. They freeze really quick in truck freezer.