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Thinking About Becoming a Flatbed Driver? Here are 3 Things to Know First

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flatbed driversIf you’re a truck driver looking for a new challenge, look no further than flatbed driving. Some say that flatbed drivers have the most challenging jobs and dangerous jobs on the road.  

If you’re up for the adventure, flatbed trucking can be a great paying job. But before you think about making the leap, here are a few things to keep in mind.  

1. Flatbed Driving: The Basics

This should go without saying, but to haul a flatbed trailer, you’ll need a Class A CDL. Luckily, there are no extra endorsements needed on top of that. The only exception is the New York state metal coil endorsement, but you only need to worry about this if you’re a NY resident.  

Flatbed drivers are in high demand and because of this, the pay for these jobs are typically more competitive than other driving jobs. The high demand for flatbed drivers is directly linked to the skills required to be a successful flatbed driver. Unlike dry van or reefer jobs, flatbed jobs often require more physical work and attention to detail to safely secure the loads. 

Marian Kulostak Flatbed Driver

Marian Kulostak, Flatbed Driver

We talked to Marian K., a flatbed driver, who shared his advice to those looking to get into flatbed driving, 

“Take your time, do it right the first time. Speed will come with experience. Ask questions, observe others, and then ask more questions.”

Learning how to become a successful flatbed driver takes time as well as experience on the job. Finding other drivers who are willing to help you learn and answer your questions is key to succeeding quicker.

2. Securing Your Cargo is Key

For flatbed drivers, making sure their loads are secure is one of the most important aspects of the job. Here are some things to keep in mind about securing flatbed loads.  

Oversized Loads

While all flatbed drivers need to learn how to secure their load, hauling oversized freight requires even more skill. These flatbed drivers carry unusually shaped freight that does not fit inside the confines of a standard sized trailer. As such, these loads need plenty of support to keep them secure. Check out the FMCSA handbook that covers all of the topics of cargo securement for oversized loads. 

Conestoga Trailers

Some flatbed drivers will have a conestoga trailer instead of a typical flatbed trailer. These trucks have an accordion-like tarp that makes loading, unloading, and securing much more convenient for the driver as well as providing shelter for your freight without the need of manual tarping. 

Bad Weather

Not only do the loads need to be secured, but flatbed drivers also need to make sure freight is protected during the event of inclement weather.

We talked to Brittney M., an experienced flatbed driver who shared her advice on the subject: 

“Always check your securement. If you think you have enough straps or chains, add one or two more. You can never be too safe. Make sure your tarps are tight, loose tarps can cause it to rip or your load to get wet.”

Securing freight during inclement weather not only protects the load, but it also protects other drivers on the road. Without this extra precaution, the tarps could fly up while driving, causing a major distraction and hazard to other drivers and a hefty fine for the driver.

3. Take the Extra Steps for Safety

When it comes to loading, unloading, and securing, following specific safety steps is essential. This attention to detail when it comes to safety is what sets flatbed drivers apart from other drivers.

It is highly recommended that drivers avoid attending to freight while on the side of the roadway. Taking time to secure loads while at a truck stop or in a parking lot will provide flatbed drivers with a much safer environment. 

In addition, wearing the right clothes as a flatbed driver is also key. Investing in shoes with a good, no-slip grip will be helpful, especially during rain or snow. Having something that covers your clothes can also be helpful, especially when loading and unloading freight that potentially has mud or other elements covering it. 

Overall, flatbed haulers are one-of-a-kind drivers, with a very specific set of skills. Taking the time to master these will not only allow you to become a competent flatbed driver, but to stand out from the crowd of other drivers. 

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What to Know About Driving a Lowboy Truck

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lowboy truck
If you’ve ever been on the highway and seen an “Oversized Load” sign on the back of a trailer, chances are, that was a Lowboy truck. These trailers are the go-to choice for hauling cranes, bulldozers and any other large equipment or machinery from point A to B.  

Because of this, Lowboy Truck Drivers need to not only be excellent drivers, but skilled at the loading and securing of cargo. We talked with Angel, a Lowboy Driver with 10+ years of experience. 

lowboy truck

Photo Courtesy of Angel

“I got into low bedding about 10 years ago by leasing on with a buddy of mine. I had always wanted to get into it and boom! One day I finally had the opportunity. I’d recommend anyone looking to getting into it to start with a Landoll or step deck moving smaller pieces and crane parts. Learn how to get your axle weights right, have a long fifth wheel slide and a long neck on the trailer. Always double and triple check your securement, know the local and state laws where you’re hauling, because they are all different. Other than all that, just take your time and be safe. If you’re looking to getting into lowbed/lowboy work, good luck and take it slow,” shared Angel.

What is a Lowboy Truck?

You may also hear the Lowboy truck referred to as a double drop, low loader, low-bed, or a float. While it goes by many names, the one unmistakable trait of a Lowboy is its two drops in deck height. The first is right behind the gooseneck and the second is right before the wheels. The reason? These drops let it carry loads up to 12 feet in height, which other trailers can’t. This makes lowboys the preferred trailer for carrying large construction equipment and other oversized loads.  

The main difference in Lowboys is the neck that comes in two main types, gooseneck and fixed neck. Goosenecks offer a ramp for quick loading. This is a huge advantage since you won’t need a crane to load cargo onto the ramp. Fixed necks are lighter, meaning you can carry a higher load capacity. The downside is they don’t have a ramp, making them more difficult to load. Goosenecks can be either hydraulic or mechanical. Mechanical goosenecks are more difficult to operate, but cheaper and lighter. Hydraulics are the opposite; easier to operate, but more expensive.  

License Needed

Anyone planning on driving a Lowboy will need to have their CDL A and a doubles/triples endorsement depending on the state. Even after having these endorsements, it’s likely that companies will choose their more experienced drivers with a Lowboy truck, due to the increased difficulty of operating it. In general, companies will want drivers to have at least two years of CDL A experience before driving a Lowboy.  

Safety Precautions

There are a few different things that make a Lowboy more difficult to operate than your standard trailer. Since Lowboys are mostly used for the transport of heavy construction equipment and oversized cargo, loading, securing, and unloading these can be a bear. Making sure you’re loading and unloading the easiest way and fastening cargo at every point to prevent shifting takes an experienced and detailed-oriented driver. 

We talked to Jimmy, a Lowboy Driver out of Pennsylvania, and he shared his tips for drivers considering Lowboy work.  

lowboy truck

Photo Courtesy of Jimmy

“1. Your chains weigh as much in the well or a headache rack, as they do on the load. Don’t be lazy, use your chains!

2. Watch your speed. You can go too slow, 100 times, but you’ll only go too fast once.

3. Always ask yourself, “What’s around that curve?” or “What’s over the crest of that hill?”, it could save your life or someone else’s one day,” shared Jimmy.

Lowboy Truck Drivers should also be checking their brakes more than they would with a standard trailer. This is to avoid accidents when carrying an oversized load. Due to the lowered deck on a Lowboy, there’s also a possibility of bottoming out when driving across raised terrain like a speed bump.  

Work Environment and Schedule

Lowboy Truck Drivers need to be both experienced and comfortable driving in and around construction zones and high traffic areas. This means they should be prepared for everything that comes with that, including heavy machinery, loud noises, the elements, and more.  

Since most Lowboy Drivers are employed by construction companies, drivers can expect to work similar shifts to your typical construction workers. They should be prepared to work mornings, afternoons, and nights as needed. The good news is that Lowboy Truck Drivers are almost always local/regional, meaning they are home every night or at least several nights a week.  

Companies that Hire

Any construction company that uses bulldozers, cranes, or other oversized equipment will have Lowboy Drivers on their payroll. Companies that specialize in excavating and paving are two examples. Working for a heavy equipment rental and sales company is another option for prospective Lowboy Truck Drivers. These drivers haul construction equipment to and from work sites. 

Like with all other trucking jobs, there’s a big need right now for Lowboy Truck Drivers. If you’re an experienced and careful driver who doesn’t mind working and driving through construction and road work zones, Lowboy driving might be the job for you.   

truck driver at loading dock

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3 Things Truck Drivers Should Know for Secured Loads

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secured loads

One of the most important things a truck driver is responsible for is securing loads. This not only ensures the safety of the driver and the cargo, but also makes sure other cars on the road are safe too. In fact, according to Simmons Fletcher, P.C., Injury & Accident Lawyers, shifting loads are cited as a contributing factor in almost 1/3 of all commercial motor vehicle accidents. Here are three things truck drivers should know for secured loads.

1. The Dangers of Improperly Secured Loads

A secured load is when cargo cannot shift or fall. This includes preventing cargo movement in any direction and protecting against weather that can cause cargo to become airborne.

Improper load securement creates risk for both the truck driver and other cars on the road. When a load is insecure, it may result in objects from the cargo flying off and hitting the truck driver’s windshield or other cars. In addition, these objects then become hazards on the road for other vehicles. Depending on the debris, the driver may not have ample time to react, causing the driver to swerve or damage the vehicle.

oversized loadIn addition, when items on a load are secured but extend past the vehicle itself, this also causes a risk to other drivers. In this case, a driver can mark their truck as an oversized load, alerting other drivers of the size and shape of the cargo. When a truck driver does not mark the load as oversized, it doesn’t give other drivers the proper visibility and potentially creates risk of a collision.

2. Who is Responsible for Secured Loads

The responsibility for securing a load properly lies with both the truck driver and the trucking company. Trucking companies often train their drivers to be familiar with rules regarding securing loads. The type of truck used to transport the cargo should be determined by legal limits on weights and sizes, and in most situations, a combination of blocks, chains, and tie-downs should be used to secure the cargo.

However, even with proper training and preparation, sometimes a load can still become insure on the road. This is then the driver’s responsibility to pull over and take the proper steps to secure the load. We spoke with Rachel, a flatbed and lowbed driver from Northern California, and she shared her experience with this.

“I was hauling a D11 blade in my lowbed, and one of my blocks came loose when I had about 500 miles to go. I had to secure it because it was on my passenger side. I can’t see it as I’m going down the road, and I didn’t want to be worried about it. I created a specific knot and used a bungee to attach the knot to my chain to make sure it wasn’t going anywhere,” shared Rachel.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR), a driver is not required to personally load, block, brace, and tie down the cargo. However, the driver is required to be familiar with the methods for securing the cargo. They are required to inspect the load and make adjustments during transit.

3. FMCSA Rules & Regulations for Secured Loads

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published securement rules based on the North American Cargo Securement Standard Model Regulations. The rules reflect the results of a research program that evaluate U.S. and Canadian cargo securement regulations.

Minimum Number of Tiedowns

According to the FMCSA, the number of tiedowns needed depends on the length and weight of the articles on the truck.

The FMCSA states, “There must be 1 tiedown for articles 5 feet or less in length and 1,100 pounds or less in weight. There must be 2 tiedowns for articles 5 feet or less in length and more than 1,100 pounds in weight. There must be 2 tiedowns for articles greater than 5 feet but less than 10 feet, regardless of weight.”

The intent of these rules is to reduce the number of accidents caused by cargo shifting.

Commodity-Specific Securement Requirements

autohaulerIn addition, the FMCSA created requirements for the securement of the following commodities:

  • Logs and dressed lumber
  • Metal coils, paper rolls, and concrete pipes
  • Intermodal containers
  • Automobiles, light trucks, vans, and flattened or crushed vehicles
  • Heavy vehicles, equipment, and machinery
  • Roll-on/roll-off containers
  • Large boulders

The FMCSA outlines specific instructions for securement for each commodity.

Overall, understanding the rules of secured loads not only helps truck drivers be more prepared, but also protects those around them.

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What to Know as a Moffett Forklift CDL Driver

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Moffett forklift on truck
If you’ve ever had to load or unload heavy construction materials at your CDL job, you know it’s not a light load. That’s where a Moffett forklift comes in. They’re easier to maneuver than a crane and can get in smaller spaces. These powerful little lifts are also compact. Moffett forklifts attach to the back of your truck so you can easily take them between job sites. These machines aren’t very big, but they pack a lot of power!

What is a Mounted Moffett Forklift?

Drivers use mounted Moffett forklifts to unload construction and other heavy materials. Many CDL drivers won’t use Moffett forklifts at all. However, for some drivers, they’re an everyday machine. Mounted Moffett Forklifts fit on the back of trucks for travel—usually flatbed or straight trucks. The forklift detaches from the truck for easy loading and unloading. Drivers haul heavy materials to their worksite and then use the forklifts to unload from the bed of the truck. You might also hear these forklifts called “piggyback forklifts” because they piggyback on the end of trucks when moving between sites. 

Austin, CDL Driver With Moffett Forklift Experience

If you’re new to operating a Moffett Forklift, truck driver Austin offers this advice:

“The first and foremost, seatbelt, and when you are on it take your time and go slow and always keep your head on a swivel looking around you to make sure you are not going to hit something or someone.”

Moffett Forklifts have several advantages for drivers who work with heavy materials. They are smaller and more nimble than cranes, so maneuverability in small spaces is better. Moffett Forklifts also frequently have 90-degree tire rotation. That allows drivers to pull right up to the side of their truck, lift materials off, and move the load with much less awkward maneuvering. For drivers working with heavy construction materials, Moffett Forklifts are a big advantage.

About the Job

If you’re thinking about taking a Moffett Forklift job, here are the basics to keep in mind.

CDL License

If you don’t already have one, you’ll need a Commercial Driving License (CDL) to operate a truck with a Moffett Forklift. Whether you need a CDL A or CDL B may depend on the type of truck you’re driving. The best way to decide what license type you need is to look for jobs in your area and see what they’re asking for. Some companies also require additional certifications to drive a Moffett Forklift. Depending on your state and company, you might need a forklift, hoisting, or hydraulics certification. 

Route & Pay

Moffett Forklift drivers often operate flatbed or straight trucks on local routes. As a result, many drivers are home every night. Some positions are also off evenings and weekends, but that depends a lot on your specific job.

Moffett Forklift jobs are often paid hourly. If you work more than 40 hours per week, that usually means you’ll earn overtime.

Like many local jobs, Moffett Forklift jobs are often paid hourly or weekly. The good news is, there’s usually overtime after 40 hours. So, if you do end up pulling long hours, you’ll be well compensated for your time. 

Personality Fit

A good trucking job isn’t just about having the skills to get the job done. There’s also a level of personality fit with the job and with the company. Moffett Forklift jobs often have some customer interaction. When drivers deliver to a job site, you might be working directly with customers. If you like to be a jack of all trades, these could be great jobs for you. Moffett forklift drivers may be asked to do related tasks that go beyond strictly operating the truck of the forklift.

This is a good job for drivers who like working with people and are happy to have a little variety in their day.

If you’re thinking about taking a job that uses a Moffett Forklift, that’s a great choice! Depending on the job, you may need to look into extra licensing, but being able to operate a forklift is a great skill to have. Moffett Forklifts make heavy lifting a breeze, and they don’t take too long to learn how to operate. If you’re still undecided, check out Moffett Forklift jobs in your area and see if they’re a good fit for you!

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Everything to Know About Conestoga Flatbed Trucking Jobs

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Everything to Know About Conestoga Flatbed Trucking Jobs

Photo courtesy of Kelsey, Conestoga Flatbed Driver

When you’re trying to find which type of driving is right for you, there are plenty of options available. If you’ve decided that driving a flatbed truck is right for you, consider finding a Conestoga flatbed trucking job. There are plenty of pros about this type of driving, and many drivers make a great career of it. But there’s also cons to consider as well. Let’s take a look at some things to know about Conestoga flatbed trucking.

What is a Conestoga Flatbed Trailer?

Before we get to the pros and cons, let’s talk about what a conestoga flatbed actually is. This type of modern-day trailer actually gets its name from the original Conestoga wagons that pioneers used to cross the United States in the 1800s.

A Conestoga trailer is one of the most versatile types of trailers available. It is a flatbed trailer, but with an accordion-style tarping system that simply pulls over the freight. So, you get the ease of freight loading that a flatbed provides with the load protection provided by the cover.

Very Versatile Freight Hauler

As mentioned earlier, these are very versatile. Because you’re only working with a flatbed trailer, you can load freight from either side, or with a crane from above. You’re not limited to loading and unloading from the back of the trailer. So, if there is a need to lift unusual-sized loads onto the trailer for shipping, a great option is to hire a Conestoga flatbed driver for the job.

Time-Efficient Transport

Because the drivers don’t need to spend a lot of time manually tarping down loads or only loading from the back, drivers often find they’re saving a lot of time on the road.

We talked to Adam, a Conestoga Flatbed Driver for his company Adam Graham Transport. He shared his perspective on the amount of time he saves and advice for other Conestoga flatbed truck drivers.

Adam Graham Conestoga Flatbed Truck Driver

Adam, Conestoga Flatbed Driver

Adam shared “My biggest piece of advice is forget about the loads you might do once a year and think about the extra loads you will get from not having to waste time tarping or waiting in line to use a mandatory tarp station. The amount of money and time saved along with the safety aspect of not having to risk falling off of your trailer come out to be worth way more than the couple higher paying loads that you can get with your standard flatbed.”

Conestoga drivers do not have to move around heavy tarps and tie down the cargo bit by bit. With the ease of pulling the folding cover over the whole load and snapping it into place, this gets the driver moving faster.

Pros and Cons from a Conestoga Driver

We talked to Kelsey, a Conestoga Flatbed Driver for Long Haul Trucking, and she gave us a few points to share with drivers considering this type of career. Check out what Kelsey has to say below:

Kelsey, Conestoga Flatbed Driver

Kelsey, Conestoga Flatbed Driver

Pros

  1. Speed: “You can usually get in and out of places quicker than if you had to tarp. It is nice not having to worry about anything oversized. You always know your trailer clearance height.”
  2. Securement: “Being able to hop in back of your trailer and check all securement makes it a less stressful haul.”
  3. Freight: “Customers with special style freight seem to like them, so you can get some pretty neat freight just because of the trailer style.”

Cons

  1. Maintenance: “These trailers can be a pain if they aren’t taken care of. I would recommend they do the research on the company, and make sure the company takes care of the equipment.”
  2. Tarp Wear and Tear: “These tarps can be torn easily and not many places in the country will work on them. For drivers just getting into it, be sure to be extra cautious.”

So that’s the basics of what you need to know about Conestoga flatbed trucking jobs. If you’re looking for a job like the one that Kelsey describes, let us help you find a great fit that meets your needs. Click the link below and get started with a Drive My Way profile today!

flatbed truck driver

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How to Decide What Type of Freight is Best for You

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type of freight

When deciding what type of freight is best for you, there’s a lot to think about. As a driver, you’re probably looking for good pay, home time, and job availability. Seems simple, but there’s a lot that can go into that decision. Not all types of trucking are for everyone. Choose something that meets your needs and is a good fit for your lifestyle. Otherwise, you’re going to be looking for a new job all over again all too soon. When you think about the type of freight you want to haul, these are a few things to help make your decision.

Making the Right Decision

Your Lifestyle

One of the most important things to consider when you are trying to decide on a type of freight is your lifestyle. Choose a job that fits YOU. That includes pay. If a job doesn’t pay well enough to support you and your family, you probably won’t stay very long. Home time is another “must-have” for most drivers. Some drivers are die-hard OTR fans and like nothing better than weeks on the road. Other drivers need home time every night to tuck their kids into bed. 

There are jobs out there for every type of trucker, so decide what works best for you, and look for jobs that meet your bottom line expectations.

The final lifestyle question has to do with how you spend your time on the job. Do you want to be driving most of the time or have a variety of non-driving related tasks mixed in? There are jobs out there for every type of trucker, so decide what works best for you.

Company Type

Once you make some big decisions about lifestyle and narrow down your list, consider company type. Do you want to work for a large carrier or a small carrier? Small carriers are more likely to give you that “family feel,” but freight may be less consistent depending on their specialty. On the other hand, large companies usually have higher freight volumes, but you might not feel as personally connected to your team.

Along with company size, consider haul type. Would you prefer a company that always carries the same thing or do you like a little variety in your life? Similarly, do you want to always work with the same customers? Consider looking for a dedicated route. Also, there are some local routes where you can get to know your customers the same way. 

Experience and Endorsements

At the end of the day, there’s a job for every driver, but not every driver is a good fit for every job. Experience and endorsements are two big deciding factors. Some jobs typically go to drivers with more experience. For example, most drivers who haul over-dimensional loads have at least 10 years of experience under their belt. 

Endorsements can also make a big difference. Some jobs “require” specific endorsements while others “prefer” them. Endorsements verify your training in a specific area, but they are also a sign to the employer that you were willing to invest in yourself to take on new responsibilities. If you identify a type of freight that is a great fit for you, find out if you have the right endorsements. If not, consider whether it’s worth getting additional training right now. 

A few of the most common endorsements for CDL A and CDL B drivers are:

Types of Freight to Consider 

1. Dry Van

dry van truckMany truck drivers start out learning to drive Dry Van. Dry Van drivers usually carry dry goods and a wide variety of non-perishable freight in 53’ trailers. Many Dry Van positions are over the road or regional. Drivers who want to drive Dry Van will have a wide range of companies to choose from. With so many companies to choose from, read job descriptions carefully to make sure the job fits your pay and home time needs.

Endorsements: Many Dry Van positions do not require endorsements, but some specialized loads may require Hazmat or Doubles and Triples endorsements.

Lifestyle Fit: Hauling Dry Van is a popular choice for many drivers. It’s great for new drivers because there aren’t as many special considerations as for some other types of freight. Many experienced drivers stick with Dry Van for similar reasons—there’s often lots of variety in the type of freight drivers haul and it has a refreshing level of simplicity.

2. Refrigerated Freight

refrigerated truck driverRefrigerated trucking, more commonly known as Reefer trucking, is particularly good for drivers who have some experience already and pride themselves on their close attention to detail. Reefer drivers most commonly haul food, which gives drivers a lot of job security. If you are a Refrigerated Freight owner operator and do have a hard time getting a load, you can also haul Dry Van freight in a Reefer truck. 

Endorsements: Most Reefer positions do not require endorsements. 

Lifestyle Fit: Reefer trucking is hard work but is also compensated well. Most people consider hauling refrigerated freight after they have a few years of experience and are looking to diversify. Most of these jobs are regional or OTR, and you will have a lot of companies to choose from. Reefer drivers tend to work odd hours and will find themselves regularly loading and driving during nighttime hours.

3. Flatbed

oversized flatbed loadFlatbed drivers are in high demand and, as a result, pay is typically more competitive than some other driving jobs. Unlike Dry Van or Reefer jobs, Flatbed jobs often require more physical work to safely secure the loads with tarps. Some flatbed drivers will have a Conestoga trailer with a sliding tarp system instead of a traditional flatbed trailer. That often makes loading, unloading, and securing much more convenient for the driver. 

Endorsements: Typically, Flatbed drivers do not need additional endorsements

Lifestyle Fit: Flatbed trucking is often considered one of the more challenging types of trucking jobs. If you don’t mind a little extra physical work and are up for an adventure, the higher pay and regular job demand make Flatbed a great choice for many drivers.

4. Tanker

tanker trucks getting filledDriving a Tanker truck can mean hauling either liquids or dry bulk. If you see a Tanker truck position available, it could be for anything from gasoline or water (liquids) to food or materials like sand (Dry bulk). Often, Tanker truck drivers have a few years of experience, and as the name says, you’ll need your Tanker endorsement. 

Endorsements: Tanker endorsement required. For some jobs, you will also need a Hazmat endorsement to haul hazardous materials. 

Lifestyle Fit: Tanker drivers earn a good wage and usually have strong benefits. In addition, many Tanker jobs are regional or local, so drivers are home frequently. Unlike Dry Van and Reefer, loading and unloading a Tanker can go quickly. You could be in and out in under 20 minutes! Drivers wear protective gear to reduce that risk during the loading and unloading process. 

5. Specialty Loads

If you want to haul a specific type of freight, chances are someone will pay you to do it. In addition to the more common haul types we mentioned earlier, there are many types of specialty loads out there. Here are just a few examples:

  • Over-Dimensional Loads: Anything bigger than typical dimensions. Usually, drivers need to have some flatbed experience first.
  • Autohauler: These drivers haul cars. It’s highly specialized and valuable freight, so drivers need a lot of skill and are paid well. 
  • Intermodal: Any freight that uses at least two types of transportation is intermodal freight (ex. Train and truck). Most drivers work close to a railroad or shipping hub.
  • Livestock: Frequently Livestock drivers usually haul chickens, pigs, horses, or cows. Drivers need a certification for the specific type of livestock they haul. It’s hard work, and drivers are compensated well for their extra efforts.

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Job of the Day: E.J. Stutzman

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E.J. Stutzman

Today’s Job of the Day comes from E.J. Stutzman

E.J. Stutzman, Inc. is a family owned and operated company that’s looking for CDL A OTR drivers. We are a regional carrier running all 48 contiguous states and Ontario. We have a stock of forty aluminum spread axle 48’ & 53’ flatbeds and drop decks rounded out with Conestoga trailers to keep freight dry.  With 24/7 tracking and dispatch and a knowledgeable support staff, E.J. Stutzman, Inc. has the tools and equipment necessary to get the shipment where it needs to go.

E.J. StutzmanAs a Company Driver for our Flatbed division, you have the respect and support of an entire team behind you every step of the way! We make safety, respect, and teamwork a priority. E. J. Stutzman has resources available to help you reach your career goals. We put you behind the wheel of some of the newest equipment in the trucking industry and our sophisticated freight planning ensures driver friendly freight and reliable home time.

Currently, E.J. Stutzman is hiring CDL A OTR Conestoga Flatbed Drivers in Sugarcreek, OH.

Compensation

  • Pay is percentage based: Pay as high as $0.60 CPM for experienced drivers.
  • Average of 2,500 miles per week
  • Weekly mileage bonus starting at $0.03 per mile
  • Twice yearly safety bonuses based on accrued mileage
  • Stop-off pay, tarp pay, detention pay, break down pay
  • Vacation pay of 1 week after first year
  • Paid training — up to $100 per day

Job Highlights & Benefits

  • Home every weekend
  • Take Home Truck program available
  • Rider and Pet ride along program
  • Prefers to hire within 150 mile radius of Sugar Creek, OH
  • Manual – Late model Freightliner, Cascadia, Columbia
  • 1 outward facing camera, no inward facing and no audio

Interested in applying for this opportunity?

Learn more about the company, the job requirements, compensation, benefits, and more.

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Job of the Day: RJ Logistics

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RJ Logistics

Today’s Job of the Day comes from RJ Logistics

RJ Logistics Assets provides customized transportation solutions throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. We are committed to being the industry leader and our success is built upon the foundation of customer service, lasting relationships, and a healthy culture. In this role, you will be generally running from Chesterfield, MI to Laredo, TX and prefer you live within a 150-mile radius of our terminal. Are you ready to partner with us?

Currently RJ Logistics is hiring OTR Conestoga Flatbed Company Drivers and Owner Operators in Chesterfield, MI as well as Owner Operators in Laredo, TX.

 

Owner Operator Job Highlights

  • Sign-On Bonus: amount depending on experience: average $2,000 paid out quarterly
  • 70% Gross Revenue (Increased % for Fleet Owners)
  • Potential to earn $3,000 – $6,000/week
  • Referral Bonuses: $1,500
  • 6-month $100 bonus for zero CSA score

Company Driver Highlights

  • Sign-On Bonus: depends on experience
  • Industry Leading Rate per Mile: start at $0.47/per mile depending on experience and will negotiate
  • Average weekly pay: gross $1,500/week
  • Health Benefits: medical, dental, vision: BCBS
  • Excellent Home Time: based on your needs and will accommodate
  • Every 6-months $100 safety bonus for zero CSA safety score

Owner Operator Perks & Highlights

  • Parts Discount Program
  • Fuel Discount Program
  • Tire Discount Program
  • Paid Cargo Insurance
  • Onsite Mechanics
  • No Forced Dispatch
  • No Trailer Rent
  • Driver Lounge
  • Healthy Culture
  • Respectful Team
  • Bilingual Staff
  • Advanced Technology

Company Driver Perks & Highlights

  • Driver Lounge
  • Healthy Culture
  • Respectful Team
  • Dedicated Dispatchers
  • Bi-weekly Direct Deposit
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bilingual Staff
  • Advanced Technology
  • Advanced Safety and Securement Training
  • Volvos – 2014 – 2017 automatics

Owner Operator Experience & Qualifications

  • Minimum age: 23
  • No felonies past 7 years
  • No DUI’s past 3 years
  • Tractor needs to be year 2005 or newer
  • Valid cab card and bobtail insurance
  • Must meet all MDOT and FMCSA requirements
  • Pass DOT physical and drug screen
  • Current medical card
  • No preventable accidents within 1 year
  • Must be registered in new FMCSA Drug Clearinghouse
  • Good verifiable MVR and work history
  • Minimum experience: CDL Class A: 1 year
  • Must meet minimum experience requirements
  • Prefers a driver with flatbed experience
  • Reliable cellular communication
  • Runs under our authority

Company Driver Experience & Qualifications

  • Minimum age: 23
  • No felonies past 7 years
  • No DUI’s past 3 years
  • Must meet all MDOT and FMCSA requirements
  • Pass DOT psychical and drug screen
  • Current medical card
  • No preventable accidents within 1 year
  • Good verifiable MVR and work history
  • Must be registered in new FMCSA Drug Clearinghouse
  • Minimum experience: CDL Class A: 1 year
  • Prefers a driver with flatbed experience
  • Reliable cellular communication
  • Lease Purchase options available after 6 months as Company Driver

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay and more.

Learn More and Apply

Job of the Day: LVT Trucking

/by

Larry Vititow Trucking

Today’s Job of the Day is from LVT Trucking

LVT Trucking is seeking CDL A OTR Flatbed/Stepdeck Drivers and Dry Van Drivers in Sulphur Springs, TX.

Larry Vititow Trucking logoLVT Trucking, LLC is a family-owned and operated trucking company for more than 50 years, built by generations of truck drivers. We are rapidly growing our team and seeking Company Drivers to haul flatbed and stepdeck freight from Northeast, TX to customers across the US. Drivers will be pulling 48 foot Stepdeck or Flatbed trailers. We have loads to accommodate your needs and desired home time.

Compensation

  • Average gross weekly pay: $1,500
  • Paid weekly
  • Base up to $ .50 CPM practical miles with an average of 2,800 – 3,300 miles weekly
  • Drivers are paid based on tenure with our company
    • Starting pay – $.46 CPM
    • 5 years – $.50 CPM
    • 3 years – $.49 CPM
    • 1 year – $.48 CPM
    • 6 months – $.47 CPM
  • Flatbed Oversize Load Pay  – $.05 CPM with $50.00 minimum
  • All miles paid, loaded and unloaded
  • Additional Weekly Performance Bonus Pay (All based on legal miles driven and contingent upon no accidents, no tickets & on-time deliveries). If driver completes:
    • 3,000 – 3,999 miles – $.02 CPM
    • 4,000 or more miles – $.04 CPM
  • Additional Pay:
    • Detention Pay – $10 per hour after 2 hours (contingent upon on-time delivery)
    • Extra Stop Pay – $25.00 for each extra pick or drop
    • Layover Pay –  $150 a day
    • Flatbed Tarp Pay – $50 for each load
  • Bonuses include:
    • Clean Inspection Bonus – $50 per inspection

Benefits & Perks

  • Healthcare plan will be available in the near future
  • Small company; personal relationships with a very low dispatcher to driver ratio of 1:8

Home Time, Routes & Schedule

  • Home Time: Varies based on your needs. Weekly, every other week or longer options available. Weekend home time possible.
  • No slip seating
  • Schedule: Hours vary based on delivery requirements. Most work is during the week; weekend work and holiday work are only required occasionally. We will do our best to work with you to meet your needs and desired home time
  • Dey Van Level of Touch: No Touch Freight; 50% drop and hook
  • All work is year round, not seasonal

Equipment

  • 2016 or newer Peterbilt (manual transmission) and 2019 International (automatic transmission)
  • Entire fleet has combination of manual and automatic transmissions
  • No cameras
  • Company owner provides only the best equipment and personally oversees all the maintenance done at our terminal

Qualifications for Company Drivers and Owner Operators

  • Must be at least 24 years of age
  • Must have CDL A license
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience
  • No more than 4 moving violations or citations in the past 3 years
  • No more than 2 preventable accidents in the past 3 years
  • No DUI/DWIs or reckless driving charges in past 3 years
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen
  • Prefer drivers living within 150 miles from Sulphur Springs

larry vititow trucking

Join the LVT Trucking Team!

LVT Trucking is seeking CDL A OTR Flatbed/Stepdeck Drivers and Dry Van Drivers in Sulphur Springs, TX.  Join their team!

Flatbed Drivers Dry Van Drivers