Flatbed Question

I know not all flatbed loads require to be tarped but of course there are some that do. This has me wondering on the weights of the tarps. The reason for this concern is that when I was younger I broke my left arm in half, both bones in the forearm, and while it is still useable I do have some weakness on that side, however I can lift 100 lbs repeatedly but with some soreness on that side if done for long periods.

Am I overly concerned for nothing or should I consider maybe a different division?

I know not all flatbed loads require to be tarped but of course there are some that do. This has me wondering on the weights of the tarps. The reason for this concern is that when I was younger I broke my left arm in half, both bones in the forearm, and while it is still useable I do have some weakness on that side, however I can lift 100 lbs repeatedly but with some soreness on that side if done for long periods.

Am I overly concerned for nothing or should I consider maybe a different division?

The weight of your tarps will vary depending on the tarps your company assigns but if you can lift 100 pounds repeatedly, you should be fine. You can also purchase custom lightweight tarps if you want to flatbed for awhile and you deem it a good investment. There are other things you should consider like throwing many chains over a load and if your left arm is your dominant arm, that may be an issue. It's hard to give a definite answer, you'll never know if it will work for you unless you try it.

Kind of what I thought that it is easier to tell by doing than anything else, however one benefits is that I am right hand dominate so throwing chains shouldn't be too bad. Thanks

I highly recommend you choose a company that does more than just flatbed. You can start with flatbedding, but if it doesn't work out you can just transfer to their reefer/dry van division instead of having to switch companies. That will sort of be your insurance if things don't work out.

Generally you will find that the forklift drivers will put your tarps on top of the load for you. Just check with other drivers or the loader on what to do with your tarps. Usually you can throw them on top of part of the load before they set it on your trailer, or you just set one tarp on the dock at the rear of your trailer and one at the front, then when they are done loading you they will lift them up on top one on the front and one on the rear, right where you need them.

I've never thrown a chain over a load. I'll climb on the trailer or load to place the chains.

As far as lifting tarps, it's not that bad.