Super Flatbedders Could I Get Some Advice

So I know we have a lot of flat bedders on this forum, and since I am going into flatbedding, I was wondering if I could get some advice from some of the best Flatbedders on this forum. This thread is meant to help those who in the future who follow the path that I am and so many trucker's have already taken. So if I can get a whole lot of advice on this thread like Daniel has gotten on his flatbed variety, I know it would be very helpful and appreciated. Thank you.

So I know we have a lot of flat bedders on this forum, and since I am going into flatbedding, I was wondering if I could get some advice from some of the best Flatbedders on this forum. This thread is meant to help those who in the future who follow the path that I am and so many trucker's have already taken. So if I can get a whole lot of advice on this thread like Daniel has gotten on his flatbed variety, I know it would be very helpful and appreciated. Thank you.

When Old School chimes in, you need to listen and pay close attention to the advice he gives you.

OK, that s about as clear as mud. Read it several times and still not sure what you want. You ask for advice but there is no question.

I can give you advice from a rookies perspective if you have more questions. Although I'm at almost 9 months now which is insane.

BTW which company did you settle on?

To answer your reply Pat basically I wanted this thread to be full of useful information for those who are just starting out in the trucking career and are considering flatbed. So I.e. how many straps, dunnage, chains etc. would you need on certain loads to be secure. I made this thread because Brett said on Flatbed Variety that we should make another thread where those of you who do flatbed could give advice and tips and make good points about how to make flatbed work for you as a trucker if you are just starting out. I figured I would take him up on that suggestion and make that thread. I hope this explanation helped clear things up Pat sorry about the clear as mud situation lol.

I have settled on TMC as the carrier I am going with C.T. I am very excited!

Ah, The Maverick Cheerleaders or those driving around with Too Much Chrome ;-)

Excellent choice on a flatbed company. Congrats and good luck!

Well thanks Susan! So what advice can you all give concerning orientation and how to make sure my load is super secure so that I don't end up getting a ticket or citation? I want to be to be a super flatbedder just like you all!

Well thanks Susan! So what advice can you all give concerning orientation and how to make sure my load is super secure so that I don't end up getting a ticket or citation? I want to be to be a super flatbedder just like you all!

Go to this link: High Road Load Securement

Pay close attention during your Training and when you take to the road with your Trainer. The Company has a VERY IMPORTANT interest in you securing your loads properly. They don't want Pictures of their Cargo and Equipment on the 6 o clock news!

TMC has some nice looking trucks! I've a buddy who went to school with me that recently went flatbed. (Gypsum Express).

The first thing he told me he noticed was the turning ratio. Apparently the trailer doesn't respond to your input as quickly/sharply as a van.

Wish I could give you more. Best of luck! 👍

Yes the spread axle is a little different than tandems. You try and make a uturn too tightly and you'll flip it right over. As for orientation I'd say you should definitely relax. When I got to Maverick I heard of stories online of course of people being sent home for walking on grass, being a minute late to class, doing anything wrong. They addressed all those things immediately. Basically, be an adult. Show up expecting to work hard and earn your way to the job. Take everything seriously as it's essentially a job interview in progress. Also, take notes on everything you can. When I went solo I looked like a mad scientist rummaging through my notes to find how I needed to secure my load. Looked silly but it got me through it.