What Does a Flatbed Driver Do?

The role of a Flatbed Driver encompasses the responsibility of transporting a variety of goods and materials over long and short distances while ensuring their safety and timely delivery. This position requires a unique set of skills to securely load, haul, and unload large or awkwardly shaped items that cannot be easily accommodated by standard enclosed trailers. Flatbed Drivers play an integral role in the supply chain, facilitating the movement of construction materials, heavy machinery, and other oversized loads that are essential for various industries. Their expertise in handling different types of cargo, adhering to transportation regulations, and navigating routes efficiently makes them an indispensable asset to logistics and transportation companies.

Flatbed Driver Job Duties

• Safely operate a flatbed truck to transport goods and materials to and from specified destinations, adhering to all traffic laws and regulations.
• Secure cargo for transport, using ropes, blocks, chains, or covers, ensuring that it is properly balanced and secured to prevent damage or accidents.
• Inspect the flatbed truck before and after trips, checking the engine, tires, brakes, and lights to ensure the vehicle is in good working condition.
• Navigate routes using GPS and traditional maps, planning for any necessary adjustments due to road conditions, traffic, or construction.
• Communicate effectively with dispatchers, clients, and receivers to convey pickup and delivery times, delays, or any issues encountered on the road.
• Complete and maintain accurate logs of travel and cargo records, adhering to federal and state regulations regarding hours of service and rest periods.
• Perform minor repairs and adjustments to the flatbed truck en route, such as changing tires or troubleshooting mechanical issues, to minimize delays.
• Clean and maintain the flatbed trailer, ensuring it is free from debris and in good condition to safely haul various types of cargo.

Flatbed Driver Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing a flatbed driver’s salary include experience level, type of cargo hauled (e.g., hazardous materials), industry served (e.g., construction vs. manufacturing), company size, and the demand for specialized skills such as securing oversized loads or operating in challenging conditions. Union membership can also impact earnings.

• Median Annual Salary: $69,825 ($33.57/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $112,000 ($53.85/hour)

The employment of flatbed drivers is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increased construction projects and manufacturing output, requiring more transportation of oversized loads and materials that cannot be easily containerized, making flatbed drivers essential for efficient delivery and logistics in these expanding industries.

Flatbed Driver Job Requirements

Education: A Flatbed Driver typically holds a High School Diploma, with a significant portion also possessing a Post-Secondary Certificate. Education in areas like basic mathematics, geography, and mechanical knowledge is beneficial. Courses in logistics and transportation can provide a foundational understanding of the industry. Majoring in fields related to transportation or logistics offers an in-depth perspective, preparing individuals for the complexities of flatbed trucking operations and safety protocols.

Experience: Flatbed drivers typically enter the field with a range of hands-on experience, from those just starting after a few months to those well-versed with several years under their belt. Essential experience includes safe driving practices, load securing techniques, and navigation skills. On-the-job training is common, allowing drivers to refine their skills in maneuvering large vehicles, understanding weight distribution, and adhering to transportation regulations. Training programs may also cover equipment maintenance and customer service, ensuring drivers are well-rounded in all aspects of the job.

Certifications & Licenses: Flatbed drivers typically require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), often with endorsements for oversized or heavy loads (T endorsement). Some positions may also recommend or require a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement depending on cargo types transported. No other specific certifications are commonly needed for this role.

Flatbed Driver Skills

Load Securing: Proficiency in using straps, chains, and other devices is necessary to ensure cargo remains stationary and undamaged during transit. Tailoring these methods to the type of load being transported prevents movement that could lead to accidents or loss of goods.

Oversize Load Transport: Transporting oversized loads demands meticulous attention to detail, including route planning, permit acquisition, and adherence to safety regulations. Drivers must coordinate with regulatory bodies to secure and deliver cargo without incident, demonstrating expertise in logistics and compliance.

Weight Distribution: Even distribution of cargo across the flatbed trailer is critical for safe and efficient transport. Drivers calculate and adjust the placement of goods to avoid load shifting or imbalances, considering weight limits of roadways and the structural capabilities of their vehicle.

Route Planning for Height and Weight Restrictions: Mapping out routes that accommodate the cargo’s unique dimensions and weight requires knowledge of road regulations across jurisdictions. This skill ensures timely deliveries while avoiding legal complications and potential infrastructure damage.

Equipment Inspection: Checking the flatbed trailer and its securing mechanisms for wear and tear before departure prevents hazards during transport. This process safeguards against load shifts or losses, protecting public safety and the driver’s record.

Weather Adaptation Strategies: Quick decision-making to adjust route plans, load securing techniques, and driving strategies in response to weather forecasts and real-time conditions is necessary. Adapting to sudden weather changes protects cargo against the elements while ensuring safety and meeting delivery schedules.

Flatbed Driver Work Environment

Flatbed drivers operate in a dynamic environment, primarily outdoors, navigating various weather conditions and terrains. Their workspace extends beyond the cab of their truck to the flatbed trailer itself, where securing cargo with straps and chains is a routine task. This aspect of the job demands physical strength and attention to detail to ensure safety and compliance with transportation regulations.

The tools of the trade are as much about the vehicle as they are about the securing equipment and technology used for navigation and communication. Hours can be long and irregular, with early starts or late finishes, depending on the delivery schedules and routes. Dress code leans towards practicality, with safety gear being paramount.

The nature of the job requires a significant amount of solo travel, yet it fosters a unique camaraderie among drivers, who often share tips and support. Health and safety are paramount, with noise and the physical demands of loading and unloading being constant considerations. Despite the challenges, the role offers a sense of independence and the opportunity to see different parts of the country.

Advancement Prospects

Flatbed drivers, integral to transporting oversized or special loads, have distinct paths for career advancement. Progressing to a senior driver role often involves accumulating miles and demonstrating safety and reliability. Mastery in securing diverse loads can open opportunities for specialized hauling, which commands higher pay due to the skill required.

Becoming an owner-operator is a significant advancement, allowing drivers to run their own business. This requires a deep understanding of the industry, including contract negotiation and client management. Success in this realm hinges on operational efficiency and market knowledge.

Transitioning into a dispatcher or fleet manager role is another avenue. This shift leverages on-the-road experience to optimize logistics and fleet operations, focusing on strategic planning and coordination. Each step forward requires a blend of experience, skill, and sometimes, a strategic shift in responsibilities.