Flatbed Dispatch in Arkansas
Arkansas flatbed freight is driven by lumber from the Ouachita National Forest region, steel distribution, and construction materials for the growing Northwest Arkansas market. The state's timber industry and expanding infrastructure create consistent flatbed demand.
Why Flatbed Thrives in Arkansas
Arkansas is one of the top timber-producing states, with the Ouachita and Ozark regions generating significant lumber and forest product freight. The Northwest Arkansas region (Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers) is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the US, driving construction demand for building materials. Little Rock's central location serves as a distribution point for steel and industrial materials heading to surrounding states. The state's zero toll roads and low operating costs make flatbed operations cost-effective.
Top Flatbed Lanes in Arkansas
Steel and construction materials via I-40. 135 miles at flatbed rates of $4.00-$5.50/mile for heavy loads.
Lumber and building materials via I-49/I-35. 330 miles with consistent demand from Texas construction markets.
Steel and industrial materials via I-40. 230 miles with balanced freight flow between both markets.
Lumber and forest products via US-270/I-30/I-45. 460 miles with strong demand from Gulf Coast construction.
Arkansas flatbed peaks March through November with construction season. Lumber mills operate year-round but shipping peaks in spring and fall. NW Arkansas construction is strong year-round thanks to population growth. Winter is the lightest period but never stops due to mild climate. Hurricane recovery in neighboring Gulf states creates occasional surge demand.
Flatbed Freight in Arkansas
Arkansas lumber mills run year-round and ship consistently to Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi construction markets. Carriers who can handle rural mill pickups on unpaved roads and tarp lumber loads efficiently earn repeat business and above-market rates.
Flatbed Rates in Arkansas
The Ouachita region between Hot Springs and Texarkana has dozens of lumber mills that ship daily. These rural mills are overlooked by large carriers because of unpaved access roads. Owner-operators who can navigate rural roads and handle lumber tarping get consistent loads at premium rates. FF Dispatch has contacts at mills across the Ouachita region.
Best Flatbed Lanes Nationwide
Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Gary, Detroit. Steel and manufacturing hub with consistent heavy freight. Rates: $3.00-3.80/mile.
Houston, Dallas, San Antonio. Oil/gas equipment, construction materials, heavy machinery. Rates: $3.20-4.00/mile.
Atlanta, Charlotte, Florida. Booming construction markets with high demand for building materials. Rates: $2.90-3.60/mile.
Los Angeles, Oakland, Seattle. Import equipment and materials from ports to inland markets. Rates: $3.40-4.20/mile.
Flatbed Equipment for Arkansas
- ✓48-foot or 53-foot flatbed trailer
- ✓Complete set of chains, binders, and straps
- ✓Tarps (multiple sizes for different load types)
- ✓Edge protectors and corner protectors
Flatbed Challenges in Arkansas & How We Solve Them
Weather Sensitivity
Tarping and securement in rain, snow, and ice is dangerous and time-consuming. Winter months can be brutal.
We prioritize no-tarp loads when weather is bad and negotiate detention time for weather delays. We also secure indoor loading facilities when available and build extra time into routes for safe securement.
Physical Demands
Flatbed requires significant physical labor: tarping, chaining, strapping, climbing. It's more demanding than van or reefer.
We target loads with loading/unloading assistance and negotiate higher rates that justify the physical effort. We also help you build a mix of easy loads (pre-tarped, no-tarp) with high-paying challenging loads.
Load Securement Liability
Improper securement can result in cargo damage, accidents, and significant liability. DOT is strict on flatbed securement.
We provide ongoing securement training resources and only work with experienced flatbed operators. We also help you access proper equipment and photograph securement for liability protection.
Seasonal Slowdowns
Construction slows in winter months, especially in northern states, reducing flatbed demand.
We diversify with year-round freight (steel, machinery) and position you in warm-weather markets (Texas, Southeast, Southwest) during winter. We also leverage holiday manufacturing demand and infrastructure projects.
Flatbed Dispatch FAQs for Arkansas
What lumber freight is available in Arkansas?
Arkansas is a top timber-producing state with mills concentrated in the Ouachita and Ozark regions. Pine lumber, hardwood, and forest products ship year-round to Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi construction markets. Rates average $3.00-$3.50/mile. Tarping is required for most lumber loads.
How is the NW Arkansas construction market?
Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers) is one of the fastest-growing metros in the US — driven by Walmart, J.B. Hunt, and Tyson corporate growth. Residential and commercial construction creates consistent demand for steel, concrete, and building materials on flatbed.
Is tarping required for Arkansas flatbed loads?
About 70% of Arkansas flatbed loads require tarps — primarily lumber, building materials, and some steel products. Having good tarps and being efficient at tarping gives you access to more loads and better rates. Untarped loads are mostly pipe, heavy machinery, and some oversized equipment.
How much more can I earn with flatbed vs dry van?
Flatbed rates are typically 25-35% higher than dry van. Our flatbed carriers average $3.25/mile vs $2.85/mile for dry van. This translates to $50,000-80,000 more annually. However, flatbed has higher operating costs (tarps, chains, straps, physical wear) of about $5,000-8,000/year. Net, flatbed operators earn $42,000-72,000 more than dry van annually.
What if I'm new to flatbed - do you work with less experienced operators?
We prefer at least 6-12 months of flatbed experience for safety and liability reasons. Improper securement is dangerous and costly. If you're transitioning from van to flatbed, we recommend getting experience with a training-focused carrier first, then joining us. For experienced flatbed operators, we provide resources and best practices to continually improve securement skills.
Start Flatbed Dispatching in Arkansas Today
Join Arkansas carriers earning $3.10/mile with FF Dispatch. No setup fees, no contracts, no hidden charges.