Flatbed Or Van?

I got a question. I am debating between a few choices. As a brand new CDL driver, would it be a better idea to go out for a dry van/refer or flat bed?

I like the appeal of both but also have some concerns and reservations about both.

Well if you list your concerns we may be able to help.

As for flatbedding, you either like it or you don't. For more it is more than just a job, it is a passion.

Well if you list your concerns we may be able to help.

As for flatbedding, you either like it or you don't. For more it is more than just a job, it is a passion.

Fair enough. I am afraid that I would be getting in over my head with flatbed. The extra time it takes to tarp everything, waiting on places to load and unload you. I'm worried about all the extra time waiting around. (That's just a guess since I really don't know.) But I do like the ideas of actually getting out and being more active than you would normally be driving van. And obviously another perk is the extra cents per mile over van.

One of the biggest things I am reserved about with van is the larger blinds spots because of the trailer unlike flatbed. Also the physical aspect of van driving. Not really getting out as much and moving around. I know it would be up to me to make a bigger effort to be healthier. I don't want to get wrapped up in just running and running and running and running to make money that I choose to track to the unhealthier side like fast food and lack of exercise.

I guess I am just wondering what you all think is better and what would be better and practicle for a rookie? I don't want to take the "easy" route, if there is one, but I don't want to get in over my head.

I think flatbeds get loaded quicker, since they don't need to dock at a door. Hence more driving time? lol When I did Nissan Forklift field services, I seen a lot jumped on by the loaders, quicker, to get em in & out.

I started in flatbed, and I couldn't be happier. From what I've heard regarding vans, I think the waiting time is actually a lot better for flatbeds. Often you're being loaded or unloaded almost immediately. Plus I have yet to run into any shippers or receivers who operate during the graveyard hours, which keeps me on a decent daytime schedule.

Tarping isn't so bad, and I believe most companies will pay you to do it.

From what little I know about you, I would guess you're leaning slightly towards flatbeds, and I would also guess, based on your concerns, that you would be happier and have a better quality of life as a flatbedder. Just a guess though, keep doing your research and getting input.

Well if you list your concerns we may be able to help.

As for flatbedding, you either like it or you don't. For more it is more than just a job, it is a passion.

Fair enough. I am afraid that I would be getting in over my head with flatbed. The extra time it takes to tarp everything, waiting on places to load and unload you. I'm worried about all the extra time waiting around. (That's just a guess since I really don't know.) But I do like the ideas of actually getting out and being more active than you would normally be driving van. And obviously another perk is the extra cents per mile over van.

One of the biggest things I am reserved about with van is the larger blinds spots because of the trailer unlike flatbed. Also the physical aspect of van driving. Not really getting out as much and moving around. I know it would be up to me to make a bigger effort to be healthier. I don't want to get wrapped up in just running and running and running and running to make money that I choose to track to the unhealthier side like fast food and lack of exercise.

I guess I am just wondering what you all think is better and what would be better and practicle for a rookie? I don't want to take the "easy" route, if there is one, but I don't want to get in over my head.

I usually don't spend much time waiting to get loaded or unloaded. Anything over an hour is unusual and I start getting antsy.

As far as tarping and securing loads, if I can do it at 52 as a rookie, pretty much anyone can if they're even mildly fit. The worst thing for me is tarping in high heat and humidity, but I'm a little sensitive to that since I suffered heat exhaustion once when I was 13. I just make sure to take a break if I feel it and stay hydrated. Apparently that affects people for a long time. Lots of flatbedders complain about cold and snow and ice in the winter, and it's not really fun, but it's better than heat, at least for me.

Keep in mind that you can't always see everything when hauling a loaded flatbed. The load of pipe I have now is a little like driving a van, since the rear stack is 13'4" high. (I measured it, it was so high.)

You will definitely have an easier time staying active pulling flatbeds, and you will bump docks less often (although that is still part of the job at some shippers and receivers).

It really comes down to what is important to you, since there are advantages and disadvantages to every kind of freight you haul. Be sure to read the material on the site about the differences between reefer , dry van , tanker, etc. if you haven't already.