getting into flatbedding

here_and_back · #1 (**permalink**) 01-24-2008, 07:20 PM

I just came out of ltl and am going to start pulling a flatbed. My question is, can anyone tell me the easiest way to tarp a load of lumber or flooring or is this just something I will have to figure out for myself? What about chaining down metal? These are the main products they told me I will be hauling.

rodedawg · #2 (**permalink**) 01-24-2008, 08:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by here_and_back

I just came out of ltl and am going to start pulling a flatbed. My question is, can anyone tell me the easiest way to tarp a load of lumber or flooring or is this just something I will have to figure out for myself? What about chaining down metal? These are the main products they told me I will be hauling.

When loading lumber or any tall loads, always put your tarps on the top bunk of lumber or whatever your loading, that way, when your loaded, your tarps are on top of your load to be tarped. tarps are very heavy, good luck

brigpilgrim · #3 (**permalink**) 01-24-2008, 11:15 PM

Tarp back to front, but the best advise is watch the other drivers and help the guy ahead of you, that will give you a clue whats going on.

here_and_back · #4 (**permalink**) 01-25-2008, 12:06 AM

Thanks guys. I've been in trucking for about 6 years and I have never messed with a flatbed. I'll take all the advise I can get because I know this is hard work and I also know there are guys that have found the easiest ways to tarp loads. I appreciate the help and keep it coming.

Alzado77 · #5 (**permalink**) 01-25-2008, 03:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by here_and_back

Thanks guys. I've been in trucking for about 6 years and I have never messed with a flatbed. I'll take all the advise I can get because I know this is hard work and I also know there are guys that have found the easiest ways to tarp loads. I appreciate the help and keep it coming.

Good money in flatbeds. Who did you drive for before? Are you going OTR or staying local?

here_and_back · #6 (**permalink**) 01-25-2008, 01:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigtruckerguy

Good money in flatbeds. Who did you drive for before? Are you going OTR or staying local?

I drove for Con-Way but they laid me off. Can't make it on the unemployment. I have a buddy that works for a company that also has a flatbed division. 41.1 cpm and leave on monday, home on friday.