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Hmm...this is one of those bottom-line problems that defines the whole problem with the country today. It`s really a tough situation, what with the critical necessity of trucking, and the crazy prices of gas.

What if you approach this in the opposite direction: In your above, you`re focused on finding people who already know they need to transport something. You want them to know you`re ready and available. In a way, that`s a "passive" approach.

An active approach would start differently. First, here`s a question: "How come anybody would want a flatbed truck? Why would they care?"

That`s going to give you your key mission statement---what it is you offer that will fill a need. From there, the problem is to find a way that somebody`s need in that area isn`t being met.

"Who needs a truck, but can`t get one?"

What I`m thinking is that even in an oversupply situation, where it`s a buyer`s market, there has to be a niche of people who still can`t find what they want. If you can proactively go out and find those people, they`ll provide some business.

It may not be enough to build a growing business, but it might be enough to keep you afloat for the moment, right? Sort of a "bread and butter" business.

For example, when I was in the music business we would often play county fairs and other outdoor venues. We needed a stage, and a flatbed was the perfect solution. It doesn`t at all involve hauling product to a destination. Instead, it provides a different use for the same truck, and requires no fuel.

Can you brainstorm some alternate uses for a flatbed trailer or the main truck, no matter how seemingly crazy?

Try looking in trade magazines like Outbound Logistics.  Yo might find something in their classifieds.  Also, try running an ad on Craig`s List - Truck for hire.


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The older we get, the more excuses we make for not chasing after our dreams. But truth is, goals are attainable at any age.

I don`t know much at all about the trucking industry, but from what I hear there`s always a calculation about how much "stuff" is being trucked, in relation to how much money is being paid. That would make the value per load into something worthwhile in running the truck.

Would it be possible, if I`m even in the ballpark here, to maybe take less per load? In other words, could you go after a smaller business who only needs to transport a partial load?

That "Craig`s List" posting is a good idea, too. In fact, you could put up a fast and simple Web page, like a flyer: "Independent Trucking - Flatbed Truck for Hire." Add in some content, and contact info, and you`d at least have a web presence.

As an ex trucker ( company driver ) I can relate to a lot of what you`re going through. Is the 200 mile radius a requirement for some special reason? That can be pretty limiting if the available freight doesn`t meet that need. Have you considered leasing into a bigger carrier that has contracts or good amounts of dedicated runs and customers?

One option besides loadboards, and maybe a little time consuming, is to search for area businesses ( northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan ) that could use flatbed service, and contact them directly, relating why you would be a good option for them to use your service.



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M Hall
Website Critique Community
International Society of Curmudgeons

It seems that freight is very light all over! the company Gainey Transport here in MI just Defaulted on 238 million dollar note, thought they were a pretty good company. Have you thought about signing with a regional carrier for a bit until the economy turns around? Is the reason for the 200 miles because you don`t have a sleeper? That Craigs list ideas sounded pretty good.


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