Flatbed Jobs — Harvest Season Hauling
Fall (August — November). Flatbed positions with +20-30% over base rates.
Flatbed During Harvest Season Hauling
Harvest season hauling runs from August through November as America's agricultural heartland brings in crops that feed the nation and the world. The Midwest grain harvest alone moves billions of bushels of corn, soybeans, and wheat from farms to elevators, processing plants, and export terminals. Hopper bottom trailers, grain trailers, and flatbeds are in peak demand during this period, and rates from agricultural regions can spike 20-30% above yearly averages.
Flatbed drivers haul cargo on open trailers without walls or a roof, transporting building materials, steel coils, heavy machinery, lumber, and other oversized or irregularly shaped freight. The job requires hands-on load securement using chains, straps, binders, and tarps — it's the most physically demanding segment of trucking.
Top States for Harvest Season Hauling
Companies Hiring
Tips
- 💡 Get your hopper or grain trailer inspected and cleaned before August — carriers can't afford downtime when every load counts during harvest.
- 💡 Build relationships with local co-ops and grain elevators in the spring so you're first in line when harvest starts.
- 💡 Watch USDA crop reports for yield forecasts — bigger harvests mean more loads but potentially lower per-bushel rates, so volume becomes key.
FAQ
Are flatbed drivers needed during harvest season hauling?
Yes, flatbed drivers are in high demand during harvest season hauling (August — November). Carriers offer +20-30% over base rates during peak periods.
How much extra can flatbed drivers earn during harvest season hauling?
Flatbed drivers can earn +20-30% over base rates during harvest season hauling compared to normal rates. The premium applies to both company drivers and owner-operators.
Which companies hire flatbed drivers for harvest season hauling?
Top companies hiring flatbed drivers during harvest season hauling include Crete Carrier, Werner Enterprises, Heartland Express.