Trucking requires expertise cultivated by the many years someone spends on the road, and a trucker has to build a connection between them and the 40 tons of machine they operate. Even experienced drivers sometimes are unsure about flatbed transportation, and however, those that choose flatbed transportation believe that it is such an incredible career choice.
What Is A Flatbed Truck?
Flatbed trucks are cargo trucks with no roof or walls there forte they are open to the air and other elements. Their decks are flat, and the trailer has a wooden platform supported by an aluminum frame. Some flatbed trailers carry a drop deck. These trucks measure between 48 feet -53 feet and span 8 feet, and are 6 inches wide. The trailer’s deck is 60 inches, and the flatbed truck’s weight capacity can go up to 48,000 pounds.
Many companies and businesses prefer to transport their cargo using flatbed trucks, meaning that the job is on-demand, but it takes someone with a keen eye and attention to detail to secure cargo on a flatbed truck. Flatbed trucks offer many logistic options to heavy and long cargo loads, and this is because depending on where you are, you could see several flatbed trailers joined together to carry one long cargo load.
Uses of Flatbed Trucks
Flatbed trucks are used to transport shipping containers, super sacks, and other oversized freights and cargos such as highway barriers, long pipes, steel coils, mobile homes, military machinery lumber, and bailed tires machines others.
Advantages of Flatbed Trucking
Higher Pay
A flatbed truck driver has to ensure a successful and safe trip through understanding and mastering the arts of loading, tarping, securing, and maneuvering. These are additional skills that the driver has to bring to the job and thus receive better pay than other truck drivers.
It’s Good for Your Health.
Unlike box trailer drivers who spend all their working time sited, the flatbed trailer driver must perform many physical activities. They help in the unloading and loading of their cargo. They must have the capacity to loft 75 pounds and more above their heads and show superior flexibility and balancing skills. These physical activities lead to a healthier and happier life.
Long-Term Job Security.
There are not many truck drivers with the above skills, and those with them have great demand. Flatbed truck drivers are readily retained, thus ensuring long-term job security.
Mentally Stimulating
If you love challenges, then flatbed trailer driving is the job for you. Each cargo requires a unique method to strap and secure it on the truck. Whether strapping, tarping, or e-tracking, these components must fit like a puzzle for the load’s security. Its mind stimulating to accomplish these tasks.
Disadvantages of Flatbed Trucking
Dangerous
Poorly secured cargo compromises maneuverability. Since flatbeds transport heavy and oversized freights, expertise and professional knowledge are required in securing the cargo. If poorly secured, the driver would have t6o climb up the tarp or rebalance the freight, and these tasks are risky and could seriously injure the driver and other road users.
Strict Regulations
Strict regulations because of the risks associated with securing and transporting these cargos. Agencies enforce more stringent laws. If these regulations are not followed, the driver receives hefty fines and potential license suspension.
Higher Skill Requirement
Flatbed trailer driving requires one to have particular hauling and driving skills. There are also physical demands that one must meet before securing a job as a flatbed driver.
Increased Vigilance
Flatbed truckers do not have the luxury of having their cargo hidden, which could lead to theft on the road. According to Hale Trailer, security on the road is always easier for truckers with an enclosed trailer, and therefore flatbed trackers must be vigilant to avoid cargo theft.
Is It Worth the Risk?
Flatbed trailer driving has more advantages than disadvantages, and most importantly, you get to receive better wages, better hours, and job security.
