Anderson Trucking Service Review 2026

Pay, Benefits, Home Time & Driver Ratings

Founded 1955St. Cloud, MNFleet: 2,800+ trucks (company + owner-operator)

Driver Rating

4/5 — Very Good

Annual Pay

$65,000 - $95,000

Solo CPM

Percentage-based: 25-28% of linehaul revenue (company driver)

Sign-On Bonus

Up to $5,000 (experience-dependent)

Driver Rating

4/5 — Very Good

Anderson Trucking Service Overview

Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) is a leading flatbed, heavy-haul, and specialized carrier based in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Founded in 1955, the company has built a strong reputation in the open-deck segment, hauling everything from steel and lumber to wind turbine components and oversized machinery. ATS operates over 2,800 trucks through a mix of company drivers and owner-operators.

ATS stands out in the flatbed market for several reasons: above-average pay, strong driver support, and access to quality specialized freight. The company's flatbed division handles standard flatbed loads, while their heavy-haul and specialized division manages oversized and overweight shipments that require permits, pilot cars, and specialized equipment. Drivers who move into heavy-haul and specialized work can earn significantly more than standard flatbed rates.

The company offers both company driver and owner-operator positions. Company drivers benefit from competitive pay, full benefits, and modern equipment. Owner-operators have access to ATS's freight network and support infrastructure. ATS is one of the better-known names in the flatbed segment and is often recommended by experienced flatbed drivers as a strong carrier to work for.

Pay & Benefits

Solo CPM

Percentage-based: 25-28% of linehaul revenue (company driver)

Team CPM

N/A (primarily solo operations)

Annual Earnings

$65,000 - $95,000

Sign-On Bonus

Up to $5,000 (experience-dependent)

Benefits Package

  • Percentage-based pay for flatbed
  • Health, dental, vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Owner-operator fuel and tire discounts
View full pay breakdown →

Equipment Used

Kenworth T680Peterbilt 57948' and 53' flatbed trailersStep deck trailersRGN trailers (heavy-haul)Specialized oversized equipment

Home Time Policy

ATS OTR flatbed drivers typically get home every 2-3 weeks. Regional positions offer weekly home time when available. The nature of flatbed freight (construction sites, mills, manufacturing plants) means routes are less predictable than dedicated or LTL work. Home time requests are generally respected, but flatbed scheduling can be less consistent than dry van.

Training Program

ATS requires 1 year CDL-A experience with flatbed experience preferred. The company provides flatbed-specific training on load securement, tarping, and safety procedures. Heavy-haul drivers receive additional training on permit requirements, pilot car coordination, and oversized load handling.

Hiring Requirements

Minimum Age

21 years old

Minimum Experience

1 year CDL-A with flatbed experience preferred

CDL Required

Yes — CDL-A

Clean MVR Required

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Above-average flatbed pay with percentage-based compensation
  • Heavy-haul and specialized division offers premium rates for oversized loads
  • Strong driver support with dedicated fleet managers for flatbed operations
  • Owner-operator programs with fuel and tire discount programs
  • Well-respected name in the flatbed segment with quality freight access

Cons

  • Flatbed work is physically demanding — tarping, securing loads, chains and straps in all weather
  • OTR flatbed drivers can be out 2-3 weeks at a time
  • Seasonal freight fluctuations affect miles (construction season vs. winter)
  • Heavy-haul positions require significant experience and permit knowledge

Best For

Anderson Trucking Service is recommended for:

  • Flatbed drivers seeking above-average pay and quality freight
  • Those interested in heavy-haul and oversized load specialization
  • Owner-operators wanting a reputable flatbed carrier

Overall Driver Rating

4/5

Based on compiled driver feedback, industry reputation, and compensation analysis. Rating last updated March 2026.

Anderson Trucking Service FAQs

How much do ATS flatbed drivers make?
ATS company flatbed drivers earn percentage-based pay (typically 25-28% of linehaul revenue), which translates to $65,000-$95,000 annually. Heavy-haul and specialized load drivers can earn more due to premium rates for oversized freight. Owner-operators at ATS typically gross $150,000-$250,000+ before expenses. ATS is generally considered above average for flatbed pay.
What is the difference between flatbed and heavy-haul at ATS?
Standard flatbed involves hauling legal-weight, legal-dimension loads on flat trailers — steel, lumber, building materials. Heavy-haul and specialized involves oversized or overweight loads that require permits, pilot/escort cars, route planning, and sometimes specialized equipment like RGN trailers. Heavy-haul pays more but requires more experience and knowledge. Many drivers start in standard flatbed and work their way into heavy-haul.
Is flatbed driving physically demanding?
Yes, flatbed driving is more physical than dry van or reefer. You must tarp loads (climbing on top of freight), secure cargo with chains and straps, and handle securement equipment in all weather conditions. This includes rain, snow, heat, and cold. The physical demands are the main reason flatbed pays more than dry van. Drivers need to be physically capable and comfortable working outdoors.
Does ATS hire drivers without flatbed experience?
ATS prefers drivers with flatbed experience but does hire some drivers with 1+ year CDL-A experience in dry van or reefer who want to transition to flatbed. The company provides flatbed-specific training on load securement, tarping, and safety. If you have trucking experience but no flatbed experience, ATS may be willing to train you depending on current hiring needs.
Does ATS have owner-operator programs?
Yes, ATS has an active owner-operator program with access to their flatbed and specialized freight network. Owner-operators benefit from fuel discount programs, tire discount programs, and ATS's agent and customer relationships. The company handles billing and collections while operators focus on driving. ATS is well-regarded among flatbed owner-operators for freight quality and support.

More About Anderson Trucking Service

Anderson Trucking Service Company Profile

Jobs, fleet size, and key info

Anderson Trucking Service Pay Breakdown

Full salary, CPM, and benefits details

Anderson Trucking Service Jobs in Minnesota

Openings and hiring info by state

Anderson Trucking Service Jobs in Texas

Openings and hiring info by state

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