Flatbed Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the demand for reliable flatbed truck drivers is ever-growing.

As industries continue to expand, the need for skilled drivers who can effectively transport goods while ensuring safety and timely deliveries intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a flatbed truck driver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of a flatbed truck driver,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable flatbed truck driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Flatbed Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Flatbed Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting goods and materials from one place to another using heavy or tractor-trailer trucks while ensuring safe and timely delivery.

The job involves working with different types of loads, many of which are oversized or irregularly shaped and require special handling.

Key duties and responsibilities include:

• Drive long distances to deliver goods to customers
• Load and unload cargo using appropriate equipment
• Record cargo deliveries and maintain a log of working hours
• Ensure regular maintenance and safety checks of the vehicle
• Follow traffic laws and regulations, and report any accidents or vehicle issues to the company
• Secure cargo for transport using ropes, blocks, chains, or covers as needed
• Operate equipment such as truck cab computers, CB radios, and telephones to exchange necessary information with bases, supervisors, or other drivers
• Coordinate with dispatchers and logistics professionals to plan the best routes and meet delivery schedules
• Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order
• Document and log work/rest periods and mileage spent driving and retain fuel/toll receipts

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and reliable flatbed truck driver to join our transportation team.

The flatbed truck driver’s responsibilities will include driving to designated locations, ensuring safe and timely delivery of goods and cargo, and maintaining detailed driving and delivery records.

Our ideal candidate has a clean driving record, holds a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and has a solid understanding of DOT regulations.

The aim of this role is to ensure safe, efficient, and timely delivery of products to our customers, while adhering to all company policies and transportation laws.

 

Responsibilities

• Drive flatbed truck to deliver goods to customers
• Secure cargo for transport using ropes, blocks, chains, or covers
• Adhere to all traffic laws and maintain a safe driving record
• Inspect trucks for mechanical issues prior to departure
• Maintain logs of working hours and of vehicle service and repair status
• Coordinate with dispatchers and other drivers as needed
• Assist with the loading and unloading of goods
• Communicate with customers to ensure delivery satisfaction
• Adhere to all company policies and DOT regulations

 

Qualifications

• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Proven work experience as a flatbed truck driver
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly
• Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations
• No recent moving or driving violations
• Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions, etc)
• Ability to handle physical workload
• High school diploma

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Flatbed Truck Driver
• Work Environment: On the road. Overnight travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Transport Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Flatbed Truck Driver Do?

Flatbed Truck Drivers are specialized transport professionals who operate flatbed type of trucks, which are usually used for carrying heavy or oversized goods and materials.

Their primary responsibilities include loading and unloading goods, securing cargo, and driving long distances to deliver items.

This often requires knowledge of different types of securing methods such as chains, straps, and tarps, to ensure the cargo’s safety during transit.

Flatbed Truck Drivers are also responsible for planning routes, ensuring their vehicle is roadworthy by carrying out routine checks on things like tires, brakes, and gas levels.

They may also need to maintain detailed logs of their driving hours, rest periods, and miles covered to comply with local and federal regulations.

Flatbed Truck Drivers are often required to interact with clients during pickup and delivery, so good customer service skills are also part of the job role.

In some cases, they might also be responsible for the basic maintenance of the truck, and in the event of a breakdown, they would be expected to coordinate with roadside assistance.

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

A flatbed truck driver should possess skills and qualifications that are important for safety, efficiency, and customer service, such as:

• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a good driving record to operate the truck safely and lawfully.
• Physical stamina and strength to handle the demands of long driving hours, loading and unloading cargo, and performing minor vehicle repairs if required.
• Knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations, including hours of service regulations, to ensure compliance at all times.
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly, often including nights and weekends, to meet delivery schedules.
• Ability to plan routes and meet delivery schedules, demonstrating excellent time management skills.
• Proficient in basic mechanics to carry out routine truck maintenance, identify mechanical issues, and determine when professional repairs are needed.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients, dispatchers, and law enforcement officers.
• Attention to detail to accurately complete paperwork, such as logs and inspection reports.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations, such as traffic, weather conditions or delivery problems.

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Experience Requirements

Flatbed truck drivers usually begin their career by attending a truck driving school to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

During this period, they gain significant practical experience as they learn about the safe operation of trucks, as well as the rules and regulations that govern commercial driving.

After obtaining their CDL, most entry-level drivers start out in a period of on-the-job training, which can last anywhere from one to three months.

This training period, often done with a mentor, provides them with firsthand experience of driving a flatbed truck and handling the unique challenges that this type of truck entails.

Those with 1 to 3 years of experience are usually considered experienced drivers.

These professionals have typically driven a wide range of routes and have experience with the secure loading and unloading of the flatbed truck.

They also usually have a solid understanding of the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and have a clean driving record.

Drivers with more than 3 years of experience often have the opportunity to take on more complex routes or special commodities, as their experience would have equipped them with the necessary skills to handle more challenging driving situations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience and a solid record of safe driving may be considered for leadership roles such as driver trainer or transportation manager.

They may also consider becoming owner-operators, where they own and manage their own trucking business.

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

Flatbed Truck Drivers usually require a high school diploma or equivalent.

To drive a commercial vehicle such as a flatbed truck, drivers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The CDL training program, offered by various community colleges and vocational schools, includes both classroom instruction and practical driving experience.

It covers vehicle operations, driving regulations, safety procedures, and basic maintenance.

In many states, additional training and a special endorsement are required to operate flatbed trucks due to their unique handling characteristics and load securing requirements.

Once a CDL is obtained, many drivers gain experience and additional training on the job under the supervision of a more experienced driver.

This training typically covers company policies, procedures, and specific equipment use.

Some flatbed truck drivers may also opt for professional certifications offered by organizations such as the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI).

These certifications, while not mandatory, can demonstrate a driver’s skill, knowledge, and commitment to safety, enhancing their employability and advancement prospects.

Regular refresher courses and training are often required to maintain the license and stay updated with changes in regulations and safety practices.

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Salary Expectations

A Flatbed Truck Driver earns an average salary of $52,572 (USD) per year.

The earnings can differ based on factors such as years of experience, specific location, and the company of employment.

 

Flatbed Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Flatbed Truck Driver need?

Flatbed Truck Drivers need to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) before they can legally drive commercial motor vehicles.

Some companies may also require additional endorsements for hauling certain types of freight.

They must also have a good driving record, be physically fit to handle cargo and have knowledge of safety procedures for loading and securing cargo.

 

What are the daily duties of a Flatbed Truck Driver?

A typical day for a Flatbed Truck Driver includes inspecting their truck before and after trips, ensuring the securement of their cargo, maintaining logs of their activities, reporting any issues or incidents to dispatch, and complying with truck driving rules and regulations.

They are also responsible for planning routes and meeting delivery schedules.

 

What qualities make a good Flatbed Truck Driver?

A good Flatbed Truck Driver must have excellent driving skills and the ability to maintain concentration over long periods.

They should also possess strong physical stamina for loading and unloading cargo.

Good communication skills are also essential to interact effectively with dispatchers and customers.

Lastly, they should be able to handle the stress that comes with spending long hours on the road, often alone.

 

Is it hard to hire a Flatbed Truck Driver?

Depending on the location and the nature of the work, it can be challenging to hire Flatbed Truck Drivers.

The job requires long hours on the road, which may discourage some candidates.

It is also physically demanding as drivers are often required to load and unload cargo.

However, offering competitive pay rates and good working conditions can attract qualified candidates.

 

What should you look for in a Flatbed Truck Driver resume?

Check for a valid CDL in a Flatbed Truck Driver’s resume.

You should also look for previous experience in the trucking industry and specifically with flatbed trucks.

Any additional endorsements or certifications, such as Hazardous Materials (HazMat) or Tanker endorsements, are also advantageous.

Finally, you should consider their safety record and any references from previous employers.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into what it truly means to be a flatbed truck driver.

And guess what?

It’s not just about driving a truck.

It’s about delivering the goods that keep our world moving, one mile at a time.

With our essential flatbed truck driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to accelerate your career.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precision-driven listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mile driven is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s navigate that journey. Together.

How to Become a Flatbed Truck Driver (Complete Guide)

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