Flatbed Dispatch in Florida
Florida's booming construction market and port freight create strong flatbed demand. The state builds year-round thanks to mild weather, and Hurricane rebuilding adds surge demand. Port of Jacksonville handles heavy equipment imports.
Why Flatbed Thrives in Florida
Florida's population growth drives constant construction — new homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects never stop. The state had $45B+ in construction spending recently. Hurricane rebuilding creates additional flatbed surges. Port of Jacksonville imports heavy machinery and vehicles. Solar energy installations are growing rapidly across the state.
Top Flatbed Lanes in Florida
Port equipment and construction materials heading south via I-95. 345 miles at $3.00-$3.50/mile.
Building materials for Central Florida development via I-4. 85 miles with premium short-haul rates and high frequency.
Construction equipment and manufactured goods heading north via I-75. 660 miles at $2.80-$3.20/mile.
Port heavy equipment and materials via I-95. 400 miles with balanced freight flow.
Florida flatbed runs year-round — no winter construction shutdowns. Peak season is March through November (dry season alignment). Hurricane season (June-November) creates surge demand for building materials and generators — rates can spike 30-50% during active storms. January-February is the softest period but still stronger than most northern states.
Flatbed Freight in Florida
Florida afternoon thunderstorms are common May through September — always carry tarps even on "no tarp" loads to protect freight from sudden downpours.
Flatbed Rates in Florida
Florida flatbed loads often involve no tarping due to warm weather and short distances. However, sudden afternoon thunderstorms are common May through September — always carry tarps even on "no tarp" loads. FF Dispatch tracks weather patterns and adjusts routes for storm avoidance.
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 Florida
- ✓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 Florida & 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 Florida
Does Florida have year-round flatbed work?
Yes — Florida is one of the few states with true year-round flatbed demand. Mild weather means no winter construction shutdown. Building permits are issued 12 months a year. Add hurricane rebuilding, and Florida flatbed is remarkably consistent.
How does hurricane season affect flatbed rates?
When storms hit, flatbed rates for building materials, generators, and heavy equipment spike 30-50%. Pre-positioning loads of plywood, roofing materials, and generators pay premium emergency rates. HOS waivers apply during declared emergencies.
What types of flatbed freight are most common in Florida?
Construction materials (lumber, steel, concrete) make up 50% of Florida flatbed freight. Heavy equipment and machinery account for 25%. Solar panels and renewable energy equipment are growing rapidly. Port freight from Jacksonville adds diverse opportunities.
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 Florida Today
Join Florida carriers earning $3.10/mile with FF Dispatch. No setup fees, no contracts, no hidden charges.