Question:
After driving vans for two and a half odd years, I'm seriously considering taking a deck job pulling a lowboy tridem. Most of what I pull will be over-dimension. The employer wasn't really concerned that I had no deck experience, and told me tarping, strapping, chaining etc., was mostly 'common sense'. They don't seem to think that any formal training is required for this work. So, what are some areas that can give you grief? Did all you skateboarders out there learn on your own, or were you trained?

Answer:

That's true up to a point but there are a number of regulations concerning tie-downs (how many, what size, what type, where, etc..) that go beyond 'common sense'.
There are even more regulations concerning hauling O.D. and it becomes real costly, real quick when you run afoul of those regs.

Answer:
I was trained, somewhat. 3 day course for flatbedding since I was already and experienced driver. After that 3 day course the real learning started.
There are a lot of tricks you learn mainly by doing, but there is a lot you also need to know before you start such as how to figure out how many straps or chains you need, the proper way to strap and chain, etc.
Answer:
I won't agree with that common sense thing when you are hauling over-dimensional freight. They can put some pretty strange things on flatbeds and you've got to know a few tricks here and there to keep it in one place. I've had some close calls with over dimensional stuff, as well as regular freight that you'd never suspect would be a problem.

Answer:
I was also required to take a load securement class. Got some good tips and and was given a manual to go by for proper way company wants certain loads secured.
Most is common sense and I try to go by the rule that the more stable and secure to the deck the better I like it.
Also for you newbies, when ever you stop, check your load. You can bet that alot of times if your using straps, you will need to get the bar out and tighten some of them up.
But as I'm getting older - whoops, I am old, I'm getting out of sleds and joining the door slammers. Guess I'll see what I've been missing. Flat bedding is a young mans game. 100 plus degrees strap and tarp in Phoenix or Fontana, and frozen hands and chains in the NE. Go get em youngsters, get that extra cent or two and tarp pay.
Monday my new adventure begins.
Codger