My experience is with flatbeds, but I've been out of trucking for a little while.

I’d like to just jump back into flatbeds. However, being out of the truck for a couple of years, coupled with my present location Murrieta, CA (So Cal) prevent that. For my own various reasons, I prefer to stick with flatbeds.

Here is my re-entry strategy.
Melton is my choice of flatbeds, based on pay (for my experience) and the ability to get me home. However, I need 3 months recent OTR before I can get back to flatbedding.

CRST Van Ex will take me now. As you may know, they are all team runs. So I can do my 3 months with CRST and then move to Melton.

Home time isn’t important during these 90 days. A small sacrifice I’m willing to make to get what I want.

NOW, before I make this move, tell me a little about these companies…
Or, suggest a company (flatbed) you may have experience with, here on the west coast.

Semper Fi!

***UPDATE***
Ok, I can't drive for CRST because I've been out too long. I've been out over 2 years, but less than 3. Any suggestions, other than going back to school...?

talk to Roehl...they advertise their flatbed division on XM radio.

I drove for Melton.It has been several years ago.They want you to stay out 4-6 weeks before you go home.With you living in California,you will see alot of the East Coast.I lived in West Texas at the time and I had to beg for a trip out west.You will get to know Pennsylvania and Chicago real well.They do have good equipment. They pay $40 to tarp,which is pretty good,and you will tarp nearly ever load.

You might check with Maverick and TMC. Swift did have a flatbed division. I don't believe that Millis has a flatbed division, but might be a way to get your foot back in the door. I would also suggest checking with your state employment office. Many carriers post job openings with them. There are some carriers who mostly run I-5. I would check some of the truck stops and see who is running in the area and give them a call.

One more suggestion is to check the company listings on this forum. It is at the top of the page. Many carriers are listed along with minimum hiring requirements. Good luck.

Thanks All, I'm still in research mode...