Top Challenges Flatbed Drivers Face (and How RCS Solves Them)

Flatbed trucking isn’t for everyone. It takes skill, strength, and the right mindset to handle the elements, secure heavy freight, and keep schedules on track.
At RCS Trucking, we understand what drivers face on the road — and we’ve built our company around helping them succeed.

Here are some of the biggest challenges in flatbed trucking and how RCS works to make each one easier.

1. Tarping and Weather Conditions

Flatbed drivers deal with more than just traffic and tight deadlines — they’re out in the elements every day. Rain, wind, snow, and heat can make tarping and securement difficult and even dangerous.

How RCS Helps:

• We provide high-quality tarps and securement gear to keep loads protected and drivers safe.
• Experienced drivers share best practices and safety techniques with new team members.
• Our dispatchers plan routes to avoid severe weather whenever possible.

At RCS, safety always comes before speed — because getting home safe matters most.

2. Long Wait Times at Shippers and Receivers

Detention can be one of the most frustrating parts of the job. Every hour a driver spends waiting is an hour they aren’t earning.

How RCS Helps:

• We work directly with customers to improve dock scheduling and reduce wait times.
• When delays happen, drivers are paid fairly for detention time.
• Our communication stays open — drivers know what’s going on, not left guessing.

We respect a driver’s time. If you’re waiting, we’re working behind the scenes to get things moving.

3. Equipment Breakdowns and Maintenance

Every driver knows how one small issue can derail a whole day. Equipment problems cost time, money, and miles.

How RCS Helps:

• RCS has its own in-house diesel repair shop, ensuring trucks are serviced fast and maintained right.
• We perform preventive maintenance on all equipment to avoid roadside breakdowns.
• Drivers can report issues directly through dispatch for quick turnaround repairs.

We keep our fleet reliable so drivers can stay focused on what they do best — hauling freight safely and efficiently.

4. Finding Safe Parking and Rest Stops

After a long day, the last thing any driver wants is to hunt for safe parking. Unfortunately, parking shortages are a growing issue nationwide.

How RCS Helps:

• Our dispatchers help drivers plan stops ahead of time to ensure safe, compliant rest breaks.
• We maintain yard access and partner locations for secure overnight parking when needed.
• Routes are built with realistic schedules — not ones that force unsafe driving hours.

You can’t rest if you can’t park. We make sure every trip has room for both.

5. Staying Connected on the Road

Life on the road can get lonely. Drivers spend days or weeks away from family, often dealing with limited communication and long hours.

How RCS Helps:

• Our team maintains personal communication with drivers — not automated messages.
• We check in regularly, not just about freight, but about how the driver is doing.
• We host driver events and appreciation weeks to build community and connection.

At RCS, drivers are part of the family — not just a truck number.

The Bottom Line

Flatbed trucking will always have challenges, but with the right company behind you, they’re a lot easier to handle.
At RCS Trucking, we back every driver with dependable equipment, responsive dispatch, and a team that actually listens.

Because when our drivers succeed, we all move forward together.

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