I started on flatbeds in 1978 and prefer it over any other type of trailer.
I take pride on getting steel and high heavy loads to the customer without
damage or loss. I am embarrased when I drive by a load of coils laying on the side of the road or sheet steel spread out on the highway due to a lazy driver. One thing about this job is you can not be inattentive to your securements, driving (taking ramps, turns and stopping). It keeps me on my toes.
Also, I like seeing my load and knowing where it is on my trailer. I like seeing where the loader is putting the load, this cuts down on incident of over on my axles and having to change it. When you know your trlr and get familiar with weights of product you can control the loader better.

When I drove reefer and dry Vans I spent far more time at wharehouses and stores waiting for an appt or lumpers, etc. Yeah we wait in this industry too, but nothing compared to my other experiences.

I see men and women of all ages and body builds do this work, heel, I met a man with one arm that flatbeds. When I saw him, I threw out any excuses I have for quitting.