If you are looking for a stable career, looking for work as a CDL flatbed truck driver is a good idea. Drivers with CDLs are always needed to transport goods and assist with moving other materials. Flatbed drivers tend to make a bit more than the average driver, but that reward comes with some risk. Driving a flatbed is a little more dangerous than driving other types of trucks. So, a few more steps are needed to be certified, but they can lead to a rewarding career.

What Does CDL Stand For and How Can I Obtain One?

CDL stands for Commercial Driver’s License. This gives you permission to operate large, heavy, or hazardous vehicles within the United States. There are various jobs that might require you to hold an up-to-date CDL. Different licensure is needed depending on the intentions of the driver. For example, someone operating a passenger vehicle doesn’t necessarily need the same type of CDL someone driving a hazardous waste truck needs.

If you are looking to get your CDL to drive a flatbed truck you will need a Class A license. A Class A CDL will also allow you to drive tractor-trailers, tank vehicles, and livestock carriers as well. Obtaining a Class B CDL will permit you to drive large passenger buses, box trucks, and other larger vehicles. Class C drivers are permitted to drive any vehicles not covered under Class A and B, including small Hazmat vehicles.

The three license classes have the same basic requirements. Everyone applying for a CDL must meet the following prerequisites.

● You must be at least 21 years old.

● Submit your state’s CDL application and pay any associated fees.

● Provide proof of residency.

● Receive a medical examination and submit a completed medical report form.

● Take and pass a vision test.

● Take a general knowledge exam (specific to the class of vehicle).

Once you do each of these things, you will be issued a CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit). After 14 days, you can schedule your CDL driving test. If you pass your CDL test, you’ll pay the appropriate fees to receive your full license.

Becoming a CDL Flatbed Truck Driver

While it may seem overwhelming, becoming a CDL flatbed truck driver is a straightforward process. With the help of a company like Premium Transport Staffing, you will have everything you need to be successful in your career as a driver. If you have your sights set on becoming a flatbed truck driver, it is good to know exactly what the job entails and what is required of you.

Class A Requirement

As mentioned above, driving a flatbed truck requires a Class A CDL. This covers the movement of any combination of vehicles weighing up to 26,001 lbs. total. Any towed vehicle must weigh more than 10,000 lbs. These specifications change with each step up in licensure.

Job Responsibilities

Of course, a huge part of your job will be safely driving flatbeds trucks. You will also be responsible for the safe delivery of many goods. To ensure this safe delivery, you will need to assume each of the following as your responsibility as well.

Loading

Typically, flatbed trucks are used to move heavy materials. Forklifts and cranes are used to load the items onto the truck. The driver is responsible for ensuring that everything on the truck is placed safely and well-balanced. If these things aren’t checked, it could lead to a serious problem.

Securing

Drivers also assume the responsibility for securing any cargo they’re transporting. So, when you are on the move, you will need to use a wench or steel chains to secure the materials to the flatbed. This is your responsibility throughout the trip.

Tarping

The safe delivery of materials means protecting the product you are transporting too. Tarping may be necessary to protect the materials against the elements, especially in inclement weather or winter months. These tarps are heavy and usually placed using cranes. However, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure they remain secure.

Advantages to Flatbed Truck Driving

There is no doubt that CDL flatbed truck driver jobs are difficult. Choosing this career path certainly has its advantages though. You might have the opportunity to travel or there may be a stable driving job open up in a blossoming community. The list goes on. Here are a few more benefits of pursuing flatbed truck driving gigs.

Higher Pay

Most positions looking for flatbed truck drivers pay well. The average salary sits around $65,000 and can go into the six figures in some cases. Compensation for truck driving jobs is higher because of demand.

Greater Demand

Companies will always need someone to transport their products or materials. Right now, the trucking industry is experiencing a huge talent shortage. Because your CDL licensure allows you to tow a variety of different things, you’ll always be in demand.

Increased Job Flexibility

Truck driving allows for a lot of flexibility, believe it or not. You can choose whether you want to stay local or travel. On top of that, you can pick and choose contracts to control your time off. You can also further negotiate pay with employers and only accept the jobs that meet your needs.

Get Hired as a Class A CDL Flatbed Truck Driver with Premium Transport Staffing Today

If you are interested in learning more about CDL Class A truck driver jobs, the team at Premium Transport Staffing is here to help. Our recruiters are connected with employers who are looking for CDL flatbed truck drivers. After verifying your credentials, we can get you placed in a job fast. We have a state-of-the-art app that can put you in touch with employers directly.

Additionally, if you are interested in embarking on a career as a CDL driver, Premium Transport Staffing would love to chat with you. Our commercial truck driving employment agency can help guide you through the steps to get your CDL and kickstart your new career. Contact us to learn more about flatbed trucking jobs in California and other truck driving careers.