Flatbed Hauling Trucking Companies, Flatbed Freight Shipping Rates, Transportation Quotes
Despite its risks, it is a hugely rewarding industry with many challenges unique to it. Flatbed trucking drivers have many more responsibilities than a regular truck or van driver. They travel long distances carrying heavier loads.
If you are a new flatbed driver or are currently considering becoming one, it is important that do your research and learn everything you can. There are certain things that you must know before you sign up for driving flatbed trucks. Here we have rounded up 3 things you need to know before signing up for flatbed trucking.
Flatbed trucking involves carrying heavy loads across states on challenging highways. Securing the load and handling the equipment requires a certain level of physical fitness. However, that is a significant advantage over any other kind of driving because flatbed trucking keeps you active and healthy.
Apart from being physically challenging, this job also takes a mental toll on individuals. The greater responsibility puts mental pressure and demands vigilance on the driver’s part.
With greater responsibility, the flatbed trucking drivers are paid more than any other kind of truck drivers. Flatbed drivers are challenged physically and mentally at a much higher degree. Consequently, they are also under greater safety risk. It is only fair that they are compensated accordingly.
According to Truck blog CDL 101, flatbed trucking earn about $13,000 more than dry van truckers annually. On average, Flatbed Truck Drivers in the United States earn $58,500 per year or $30 per hour. An experienced driver can make as high as $99,450 per year.
Bigger loads require the drivers to tread extra cautiously. Heavy loading makes them prone to severe accidents, and the risk of injury is significantly higher. Loading the trucks requires professional skills and extra safety measures.
As most flatbeds are open, the chances of the load falling off are significantly higher, which increases the personal liability on the driver exponentially. Drivers are also required to be always alert and become restricted from taking breaks. It limits their options for parking the flatbeds as it puts their safety at risk.
Flatbed trucking is a vast field with opportunities for everyone who feels up for it. It is a relatively risky profession, but that is compensated in the pay. The flatbed truck drivers are trained sufficiently by their employing companies. If you think you can handle these challenges and are vigilant enough for this job, then we would definitely encourage you to pursue it.
