How hard is flatbed truck driving?

Answer 1

I'll put it to you this way - if you're considering it, weigh your options carefully. To pull flatbeds for one of these coolie carriers like Swift, Roehl, TMC, etc, vs their van divisions - it's just not worth it. Once you get some time in, and either want to buy your own truck or drive for a small fleet that pays percentage rather than mileage, then it could be worthwhile. But, if you're going to stick with large companies which pay by the mile but have good benefits, I wouldn't recommend it. Flatbed work is dangerous, and there are several ways to hurt yourself doing it. If that load isn't properly secured, and it goes forward, that headache rack isn't going to stop it from going through the cab of your truck. It involves climbing on top of trailers and loads, which often leads to falls. If you're dealing with tarps, woe be to you if you have to tarp them in windy conditions - that tarp could very easily be caught by the wind, whip up, and knock you off of that load. I'm making decent money pulling flatbeds and stepdecks for a small fleet which pays percentage of what the load pays to the truck, but I've had my share of injuries in this job, as well.

Answer 2

Flatbed truck driving can be physically demanding as it involves securing and tarping loads, as well as maneuvering and driving larger vehicles. It also requires specialized skills and knowledge in load securement. However, with proper training and experience, it can be a rewarding and lucrative career option.