Flatbed trucking is an innovative type of transportation in which you will transport over-size or very wide-load objects. You may be hauling building supplies, such as wood, steel springs, pipe, and shingles. Or you may be hauling military equipment, machinery, or mobile homes. In either case, good flatbed trucking will be the tool of choice!
When transporting goods over long distances, flatbed trucking offers a number of advantages. First, the truck can be secured properly to the ground and the loads placed in the bed can be evenly distributed. Second, the weight of the cargo itself will not exceed the carrying capacity of the flatbed truck. This is important because the safety of the drivers and the other cargo on board is dependent upon the ability of the driver to securely maneuver the vehicle.
Importance of Flatbed Trucking
Many people don’t consider flatbed trucking as a serious business. But the truck is the foundation upon which the entire transportation business is based, and it plays a crucial role in virtually every aspect of the business. Commercial drivers must use caution when hauling heavy cargo, as they must be aware of the potential dangers of enclosed trailers. These dangers can result in injury if the truck is not properly secure.
The driving responsibilities involved with this form of transportation are quite challenging. The physical demands that are placed on truck drivers put a tremendous amount of stress on the driver’s body. They must be physically demanding both during the actual loading and unloading of the cargo and while making turns. It can also be extremely difficult to drive a large enclosed trailer for a period of time.
Loading/unloading cargo
Many companies that provide flatbed trucking services also offer the service of loading/unloading cargo by utilizing semi-trailer trucks. Semi-trailer trucks are designed to haul cargo over long distances. With the assistance of a hydraulic system that provides the necessary power for the movement. Because these trucks have a longer length than most standard utility trailers, they are more likely to encounter heavier goods or other forms of cargo that are taller or longer. These types of goods include products that are too long for standard open hauls. Many times the cargo being haul is in excess of 10 feet in length.
The driver of a flatbed trucking company must be experienced in safely and efficiently loading and unloading any type of cargo. They must be capable of undertaking loading activities. Without damaging the merchandise or without causing mechanical damage to the machinery or the trailer. In addition, they must have experience loading and unloading freight by using both the crane and the forklift. If the drivers are not experienced in hauling freight on a regular basis. Then they should consider spending an additional day or two training in preparation for their employment with a major hauling company.
Licensing Requirements
Another important consideration for those considering a career in the flatbed trucking industry is the licensing requirements. There are currently three recognize driver’s licenses that are required to operate a flatbed truck: a Class A, B, or C license. Drivers can only apply for an additional license after achieving a certificate of completion of their training. The certification examination is administered by the American Society of Motor Truck drivers and the National Highways Traffic Safety Administration.
Conclusion
Flatbed truck driving offers many rewarding career opportunities for those who wish to start a career in truck driving. This occupation is ideal for those who enjoy staying outdoors, it offers flexible working hours and for those who like working with the partial shipment. It is also a great career option for military personnel due to the positive income. And the variety of careers available through the trucking industry today.
