What Are Entry‑Level Flatbed Trucking Jobs in the U.S.?
Entry‑level flatbed trucking jobs are CDL roles that let new drivers haul specialized, open‑deck freight without prior over‑the‑road (OTR) experience. To meet ongoing driver demand, many flatbed trucking companies that hire with little or no experience now offer paid training and onboarding pathways.
FMCSA Flatbed Definition: Hauling dimensional or oversized loads on open‑deck trailers (e.g., flatbed, step‑deck, lowboy, removable gooseneck) with cargo secured in compliance with FMCSA cargo securement rules and the protections in 49 CFR §§393.100–393.136.
| Job Title | CDL Requirement | Avg. Annual Pay (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Flatbed OTR Driver | Class A CDL | $58,000 – $78,000 |
| Regional Flatbed Driver | Class A CDL | $52,000 – $70,000 |
| Hotshot Flatbed Operator | Class B CDL* | $65,000 – $90,000 |
*Under 26,001 lbs GVWR. Some hotshot setups and routes may still require a Class A CDL and/or electronic logs based on configuration and operations. Always verify current rules with the FMCSA.
U.S. Industry Insight: Flatbed fleets commonly advertise higher CPM and accessorial pay (e.g., tarping, OD bonuses) than dry van, which can support stronger first‑year earnings potential for motivated new drivers.
Which U.S. Flatbed Carriers Hire With No Experience?
These FMCSA‑registered carriers offer entry pathways for new or transitioning drivers (program details change frequently—confirm current pay and terms on each carrier’s site):
- Maverick Transportation: Paid training path for new CDL‑A drivers; recent pages list weekly training pay (e.g., $700/week) and starting CPM for flatbed divisions, plus tarping and detention pay. See current details on Maverick’s site: CDL Flatbed Training and Student Flatbed.
- TMC Transportation: Earn while you train with percentage‑pay opportunities after onboarding; recent pages show paid orientation/OTR training and weekly guarantees for trainees. Review current info: Paid CDL Training and Student Drivers.
- Melton Truck Lines: Structured pre‑hire securement course with paid training days and tuition reimbursement (up to stated caps) for recent grads; tarping and accessorial pay available. See: Flatbed Training for New Drivers and Driver Pay.
Texas Hotshot Success Story
“Using in‑state allowances and operating under 26k GVWR, I grossed $92,000 my first year pulling light flatbed loads with a Class B CDL.” – Jake R., Houston
Regulatory note: Always confirm Hours‑of‑Service and ELD applicability for your operation (short‑haul and agricultural exceptions are limited). Start with FMCSA guidance: ELD rule exceptions and agricultural exemptions.
How to Get Hired for U.S. Flatbed Jobs With No Experience
Follow this FMCSA‑compliant pathway:
7‑Step U.S. Flatbed Hiring Process:
- Obtain your Class A CDL (manual transmission experience recommended). Review ELDT basics: Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT).
- Complete an FMCSA‑approved ELDT provider program (listed in the Training Provider Registry).
- Pass your DOT physical and drug screen; carry a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC).
- Apply to reputable training carriers; be cautious with lease‑purchase offers targeted at brand‑new drivers.
- Complete flatbed securement training emphasizing compliant tiedown counts, WLL, and edge protection. Start with FMCSA’s cargo securement overview.
- Finish team/mentor probation (commonly 3–5 weeks for new flatbedders) with documented competencies.
- Transition to solo OTR or a regional bid; top new drivers often average 2,500–2,800+ miles per week depending on network, season, and home‑time choices.
What Specialized Skills Do U.S. Flatbed Jobs Require?
| Skill | Compliance Focus |
|---|---|
| Load Securement | Use correct tiedown count and aggregate WLL; protect edges and prevent shifting per 49 CFR 393 Subpart I. |
| Permit Acquisition | Know state oversize/overweight rules and escort thresholds (e.g., Texas OS/OW permits; Kentucky escort requirements). |
| ELD & HOS | Understand short‑haul and ag exceptions, and when ELDs are still required (start with FMCSA HOS exceptions and ELD exceptions). |
Why Choose Flatbed Over Other U.S. Trucking Jobs?
Flatbed vs Dry Van: First‑Year Comparison
| Factor | Flatbed | Dry Van |
|---|---|---|
| Pay Structure | CPM + accessorials (tarping, OD/permit pay, detention) | Primarily CPM; fewer accessorials |
| CSA/Compliance Exposure | Securement‑related inspections and violations | Cargo claims, seal integrity, trailer condition |
| Home Time | More regional lanes and daylight schedules in some markets | Often OTR; regional availability varies |
FAQs: U.S. Flatbed Trucking
What’s the best state to start flatbed trucking with no experience?
States with strong construction, energy, and steel demand—such as Texas and Ohio—tend to offer frequent open‑deck freight and more entry opportunities. Check local CDL schools and regional carrier hiring maps before you relocate.
How do flatbed companies verify a “no‑experience” driver?
Carriers review your FMCSA Pre‑Employment Screening Program (PSP) history (crashes and inspections) and perform employment verification/background checks (e.g., HireRight/DAC). Learn more about PSP via FMCSA resources and DOT guidance: About PSP. For HireRight consumer report rights, see the CFPB’s HireRight page.
What flatbed jobs might operate without ELDs?
Short‑haul operations that qualify for the HOS short‑haul exception and certain agricultural commodity movements within 150 air‑miles may be exempt from using ELDs—subject to strict conditions and limits (e.g., 8‑day/30‑day RODS rule). Start with FMCSA guidance on ELD exceptions and ag exemptions.
U.S. Flatbed Resources
- FMCSA.gov – Official rules for cargo securement, ELDT, ELD/HOS, and medical certification.
- American Trucking Associations – Driver Compensation Study (2024) – Benchmark pay/benefits trends.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Truck Driver Outlook & Pay – Independent labor/pay data.
- TxDMV Oversize/Overweight Permits – Example of state OD permitting and routing resources.
- FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules – Core standards for open‑deck freight.
Ready to start your flatbed journey? Explore all entry‑level truck driving opportunities or return to the Smith homepage for more resources.