Flatbed Dispatch in Georgia
Georgia's construction boom, lumber industry, and Port of Savannah create strong flatbed demand. Atlanta's rapid suburban expansion drives constant need for building materials, while Savannah adds heavy equipment import freight.
Why Flatbed Thrives in Georgia
Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing metros in America, with suburban construction expanding in every direction. Georgia's timber industry produces lumber that ships throughout the Southeast. Port of Savannah imports heavy equipment, machinery, and steel. Infrastructure projects and solar installations add growing flatbed demand.
Top Flatbed Lanes in Georgia
Construction materials and manufactured goods via I-85. 245 miles at $3.20-$3.80/mile.
Port equipment and heavy machinery via I-16. 250 miles at $3.00-$3.60/mile.
Building materials and construction equipment via I-24. 250 miles with premium short-haul rates.
Lumber and building materials heading to Florida construction. 280 miles with consistent demand.
Georgia flatbed runs year-round thanks to mild winters. Peak construction is March through November. Lumber freight is consistent year-round from south Georgia mills. Port of Savannah heavy equipment imports are strongest August through November. January-February is the softest period but remains busier than northern states.
Flatbed Freight in Georgia
Atlanta suburban construction sites often have tight access roads — FF Dispatch knows which sites have good truck access and coordinates staging areas.
Flatbed Rates in Georgia
Atlanta suburban construction sites often have tight access roads not designed for flatbeds — some require specialized routing. FF Dispatch knows which sites have good truck access and which to avoid. We also coordinate with site managers for staging areas and unloading schedules.
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 Georgia
- ✓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 Georgia & 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 Georgia
Is Georgia flatbed work year-round?
Yes — mild weather means no winter construction shutdown. Atlanta builds 12 months a year. Lumber from south Georgia mills ships year-round. Port of Savannah heavy freight is consistent. Georgia is one of the most reliable flatbed markets in the country.
What flatbed freight comes through Port of Savannah?
Heavy equipment, construction machinery, steel products, and oversized imports. Port flatbed loads pay premium rates ($3.00-$3.60/mile) and typically head to Atlanta, Charlotte, or inland distribution points. TWIC card required for port access.
How does Atlanta construction compare to other markets?
Atlanta is one of the top 5 construction markets in the US by spending. Suburban expansion in every direction creates consistent demand for lumber, steel, concrete, and equipment. This isn't a boom-bust market — steady population growth keeps construction reliable.
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 Georgia Today
Join Georgia carriers earning $3.20/mile with FF Dispatch. No setup fees, no contracts, no hidden charges.