What Should You Look for in Flatbed Freight Companies?
Consider the following factors when choosing your flatbed trucking partner.
- The trailer and equipment to transport, load, and unload your goods. For example, businesses that need to transport tall cargo must work with step decks trucking companies.
- The projected volumes and frequency of shipment
- Your origin and destination needs. Make sure you choose a flatbed trailer service provider that meets your hauling requirements.
Which Company Has the Largest Truck Feet in the US?
PepsiCo, Inc. has the biggest trucking fleet size in the US.
The company has 16,138 trucks, 11,079 tractors, 20,105 trailers, and 6,682 pickup trucks and cargo vans.
However, the largest flatbed trucking company is Knight Swift Transportation. Its fleet includes over 18,000 trucks, some company-owned and others owner-operated.
How Much Do Drivers Make in the Flatbed Trucking Industry?
Flatbed drivers and other OTR (over-the-road) drivers traveling long distances have the highest salaries among truck drivers.
Some flatbed trucking companies for new drivers offer $69,000 to $85,000 annually.
Since the trucking industry moves around 70% of all goods in the US, Futurist expects the shortfall in truck drivers will reach 162,000 by 2030.
Besides drivers with CDL training, the industry needs more team coordinators, sales personnel, logistics specialists, maintenance experts, dispatchers, and truck assistants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is the Best Flatbed Trucking Company?
Flatbed trucking companies have unique strengths and resources, so there isn’t a single best company.
The best transportation and logistics service provider for your business will vary depending on your industry, company, and cargo.
Who Are the Largest Flatbed Shippers in the US?
The US’s five largest flatbed freight carriers include Daseke, Anderson Trucking Service, Landstar System, and Bennet International Group. These companies play a critical role in the US supply chain.
Which Company Is Best for Hauling Construction Materials?
Boyd Companies is arguably the best carrier for hauling high-volume, time-sensitive steel, and building materials because of the type of tractors and flatbed trailers it has.
What’s the Best-Paying Flatbed Company?
It’s hard to tell which flatbed company offers the highest salary for drivers. Nevertheless, the highest paying flatbed companies in the industry include Roehl, Sysco, and Jordan Company.
For companies operating a private single truck fleet, Walmart offers one of the best paying truck driving jobs in the US, ranging from $70,000 to $80,000 annually.
How Do the Top Flatbed Trucking Companies Make Money?
Flatbed companies make their money in the margin between the amount they charge their customers (shippers) and the pay rate they give their truckers (carriers) for every shipment. The net profit margin is between 2.5% and 6% on average.
Successful trucking companies (e.g., Daseke, Schneider Trucking, Hornady Transportation, Roehl, etc.) typically enjoy a 3-8% net profit margin on each flatbed trailer shipment.
How Do I Lease a Flatbed Trucking Carrier?
Contact at least two to three local flatbed trucking companies to learn about their owner-operator lease agreements and requirements for independent contractors.
Many transportation and logistics solutions providers with independent truck drivers require at least two years of OTR (over the road) experience, including one year of driving flatbed trailers.
Which Flatbed Operators Have an Excellent Lease Purchase Program?
Consider WTI Transport, Hornady Transportation, and Roehl if you’re looking for an easy-to-pay lease purchase program.
What Are the Different Types of Trucking Companies?
These are some of the most common types of trucking companies in the US.
- Flatbed trailers
- White glove service
- Expedited trucking service
- Full Truckload (FTL) Freight
- Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Freight
- Refrigerated trucks
- Intermodal freight shipping
- Private carriers
- For-hire trucking company
- Local carriers
- Regional carriers
- National carriers
Is It Difficult To Start a Business in the Flatbed Industry?
Yes. Besides the substantial capital investment, you must stay on top of safety guidelines, industry requirements, and administrative work.
Which US State Is Best for Starting a Flatbed Trucking Company?
It’s hard to determine which state is the best place to start your trucking business. However, living in one of these states gives you a head start.
- Texas
- Wyoming
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Washington
These states have relatively simple trucking regulations, offer different freight options, and have affordable trucking insurance.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re a shipper looking for specialized and flatbed companies or someone planning on becoming a lease operator or company owner, I hope my list of the best flatbed trucking companies can help you make an informed decision.
If you’re looking for ideal shipping solutions for your business, I recommend learning more about LTL and FTL freight shipping.
