Any Tips, Advice On Flatbed And Spread Axle Trailers?

Ms. Laura says . . . PULL IN.. NOSE IN!

Should be able to back out in the am; easier on a clear lot!

~ Anne ~

ps: WHERE are ya???

I cant even nose in. I did try. I can't handle the way this trailer turns. Looking in windows of trucks to see if any driver can help me but I don't see anyone and their lights are off.....

I'm in Lebanon Indiana at a flying j exit 139 off 65

The guy I'm following left before me because my 10hr wasn't up yet. Now he isn't answering his phone. This is crazy!!!

It’s all right if you gotta stay in your make-a-spot. We’ve all been new and had a hard time backing in. My first night backing into a truck stop after I went solo I still remember I got embarrassed and gave up and parked on the curb outside of the truck stop in the middle of the night. Better to do that than to try to force it and hit another truck. Sometimes you’re just too tired and don’t got it

It’s all right if you gotta stay in your make-a-spot. We’ve all been new and had a hard time backing in. My first night backing into a truck stop after I went solo I still remember I got embarrassed and gave up and parked on the curb outside of the truck stop in the middle of the night. Better to do that than to try to force it and hit another truck. Sometimes you’re just too tired and don’t got it

Yea that's what I'm going to do. I'm trying not to get too frustrated but this backing is hell. The job is fine and I like it so far but all I keep thinking about is the lack of training I had with flatbed. Maybe I'm wrong with my thinking but I need training with this type of trailer. I just can't back this thing no matter what my set up is. I know I'm doing something wrong, I know it's me but whatever I try doesn't work....

I have no experience with flatbeds, but I know OS does. Perhaps he might be a resource. Hopefully you are getting some sleep right now. I've had to hang tight in some spots that I created a few times.

I don't know what else to add but wondering if it's possible to find an empty lot somewhere and practice some trial and error until you find something that works.

I'm still really curious about learning flatbeds but also wondering how much difficulty I'll have backing with them too.

Any updates, TwoSides????

Thinking and caring; kinda what I do . . . hope you made it (In & out) for another day!

~ Anne ~

It’s all right if you gotta stay in your make-a-spot. We’ve all been new and had a hard time backing in. My first night backing into a truck stop after I went solo I still remember I got embarrassed and gave up and parked on the curb outside of the truck stop in the middle of the night. Better to do that than to try to force it and hit another truck. Sometimes you’re just too tired and don’t got it

Yea that's what I'm going to do. I'm trying not to get too frustrated but this backing is hell. The job is fine and I like it so far but all I keep thinking about is the lack of training I had with flatbed. Maybe I'm wrong with my thinking but I need training with this type of trailer. I just can't back this thing no matter what my set up is. I know I'm doing something wrong, I know it's me but whatever I try doesn't work....

Any updates, TwoSides????

Thinking and caring; kinda what I do . . . hope you made it (In & out) for another day!

~ Anne ~

Yes I'm fine Momma Anne thanks! Made it to another day and another problem. I have a flat on my drive tire, left front outside axle. In Edon Ohio at a loves waiting to get it fixed

This is the first load I secured on my own. Aluminum sows....Not sure if it is the correct way, I'm very nervous driving. I called the driver I was following to ask him how to secure it, sent him a pic also. He told me 2 straps on the front and back, 1 strap on all the middle. I couldn't put 2 on the back one because the winch doesn't have a latch to lock the gear smh. This trailer is a mess. 3 of the winches don't have a latch to lock the gear. While I'm driving I see the straps moving in the wind which is making me extra nervous. I pull over into a loves to check them. The straps are tight but I don't like how they are moving.

Also while checking the straps I noticed my tire on the front left outside axle on the drives is flat smh.

Any updates, TwoSides????

Thinking and caring; kinda what I do . . . hope you made it (In & out) for another day!

~ Anne ~

Yes I'm fine Momma Anne thanks! Made it to another day and another problem. I have a flat on my drive tire, left front outside axle. In Edon Ohio at a loves waiting to get it fixed

Toledo area, wow. Snow might be pushing up /or over; Tom is leaving Strongsville (burb of CLE) headed back to Mt. Vernon for load #2. Please holler anytime! Tom's no 'master flatbedder' (was his nemesis, LoL!) but ... we are a yap away. Good GOSH... how they are 'trialing by fire' you!!

Prayers & Wishes, good sir. IDK about that load/pic .. whatsoever. Stop and check OFTEN.... (AFTER your TIRE is repaired, of course!) All I've got, mi mano!

~ Anne ~

My advice:

There is no such thing as over securement. I have had several flatbedders come up to me at shippers and try and tell me how to secure my load and that I didn’t need so much securement. Don’t listen to any of that unless its useful tips and tricks to make your job easier. Secure it until you feel comfortable with it, and as long as it meets DOT standards and your company standards. I always throw an extra three or four straps or chains just for peace of mind. It doesn’t take that long.

Take care of your equipment. Use edge protectors when necessary. I have seen some loads put cuts and tears in straps. If that happens don’t use that strap and get it replaced. If you don’t have edge protection, get creative. Socks, cardboard, and other miscellaneous materials can work to save your straps and tarps.

Take care of yourself. You will get dirty and sweaty and nasty so take the time to shower. Flatbedders need more showers than the average telf ruck driver just due to the nature of the work. Some loads can be frustrating but don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Stay calm and don’t get in a hurry. There is no room for shortcuts in securement and safety is your most important job. Also, know that every load you complete is more experience under your belt and the job will get easier as time goes on.

Learn as much as you can. Watch Youtube. Look at every flatbed that passes you on the highway and notice how other loads are secured. Watch how other flatbedders secure their loads at shippers. It is amazing how much you can learn just through observing how other people perform the job. I have picked up numerous tricks just by being observant.

My last bit of advice is just to enjoy the journey. Starting in trucking is by nature intimidating and nerve-wracking and it is even more stressful getting into flatbedding. It’s easy to get caught up in the lifestyle of trucking, and alot of times I have to remind myself to just enjoy the journey along the way. Get out of your truck and go walking. Take breaks at rest stops and get out and stretch. Eat at mom and pop restaurants. Find new places to park that aren’t major chain truck stops. Be adventurous. As a new trucker I played it safe and didn’t want to do much exploring, but the more confidence I gained I found myself finding opportunities to have new experiences and have some fun out on the road.