Flatbed Truck Driver - Dallas TX
Werner EnterprisesDallas, TX$60,000 - $90,000
Posted 1 day ago
Flatbed Truck Driver Jobs
Hauling oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo on flatbed trailers. Requires tarping and securing skills with premium pay for the extra work.
Average Pay
$60,000 - $90,000
Home Time
Varies by route
Experience Required
1+ year CDL-A
What to Expect as a Flatbed Driver
Flatbed trucking is hands-on work. You haul oversized loads, building materials, steel, machinery, and other freight that does not fit in an enclosed trailer. Every load requires strapping, chaining, or tarping -- skills that command premium pay compared to dry van or reefer work.
Securement is the defining skill of flatbed driving. Drivers must understand FMCSA cargo securement rules, know how to use chains, binders, straps, and tarps, and inspect tie-downs at every stop. A single improperly secured load can result in catastrophic failure on the highway. Safety-conscious drivers thrive in this specialty.
Flatbed pays more than most other hauling types because of the additional labor and skill involved. Mileage rates run 5 to 15 cents per mile higher than dry van, and tarp pay (typically $50 to $100 per tarp) adds up. Annual earnings of $60,000 to $90,000 are standard, with experienced drivers exceeding six figures.
Physical fitness is non-negotiable. Flatbed drivers climb on trailers, lift heavy chains, and wrestle tarps in all weather conditions. If you enjoy working with your hands and want to earn more per mile than a van driver, flatbed is one of the most rewarding specialties in trucking.
Key Highlights
- 5-15 cents/mile premium over dry van
- $50-$100 tarp pay per load
- Requires cargo securement expertise
- Physical, hands-on work in all weather
Open Flatbed Positions
View Details
Flatbed Truck Driver - Atlanta GA
Schneider NationalAtlanta, GA$60,000 - $90,000
Posted 2 days ago
Flatbed Truck Driver - Chicago IL
J.B. Hunt Transport ServicesChicago, IL$60,000 - $90,000
Posted 3 days ago
Flatbed Truck Driver - Nashville TN
Knight-Swift TransportationNashville, TN$60,000 - $90,000
Posted 4 days ago
Flatbed Truck Driver - Phoenix AZ
Heartland ExpressPhoenix, AZ$60,000 - $90,000
Posted 5 days ago
Frequently Asked Questions About Flatbed Driving
Is flatbed driving harder than dry van?
Flatbed requires more physical work and specialized skills. You must learn proper cargo securement using chains, binders, straps, and tarps. Loading and unloading takes longer, and you work outdoors in all weather. However, the higher pay, load variety, and sense of craftsmanship appeal to many drivers.
How much does tarp pay add to flatbed driver income?
Tarp pay typically adds $50 to $100 per tarp per load. On runs requiring tarping (building materials, steel, paper products), this can add $500 to $1,500 per month to your income. Not every flatbed load requires tarping -- steel coils, machinery, and pre-packaged lumber often do not.
What endorsements do flatbed drivers need?
A standard CDL-A is sufficient for most flatbed work. No additional endorsements are required unless you are hauling oversize or overweight loads that need special permits. However, flatbed-specific cargo securement training (either through a carrier or a training program) is essential for safety and compliance.