Alabama Flatbed Trucking Companies

Alabama’s got some of the most dependable flatbed trucking outfits around, hands down. These carriers are the folks you call when your cargo’s too big or weird-shaped for a standard trailer. Montgomery Transport is widely known for moving over-dimensional freight safely all across the country.

Companies like P&S Transportation and Alabama Carriers have built a reputation for handling specialized, oversized, and just plain tricky hauls for businesses small and large. They’re proud of their on-time deliveries and their knack for solving logistical headaches that make most people’s eyes glaze over.

Safety isn’t just a buzzword for Alabama’s flatbed carriers. Buddy Moore Trucking really leans into road safety, using new tech and training to keep things running smoothly. That focus on safety, along with their reliability, makes these trucking companies in Alabama a smart pick for anyone needing specialized shipping.

Quick Stats

Alabama’s home to top flatbed trucking companies, especially for shipping oversized and over-dimensional loads.
Safety and on-time delivery aren’t just talking points—they’re core values for these carriers.
If you need flatbed services for shipping, you’ve got a bunch of specialized options to choose from, depending on your business needs.

Across Alabama, there’s no shortage of flatbed trucking companies ready to handle both local and long-haul shipping jobs. These carriers move everything from construction materials to heavy machinery, whether it’s staying in-state or headed across the country.

Market Size and Reach

Flatbed trucking here is a vital link between manufacturers, construction sites, and distribution centers. A lot of these carriers don’t just stick to Alabama—they’ll haul all over North America, even up into Canada.

Alabama’s spot along some major interstates (I-65, I-20, I-59, I-85) gives carriers a leg up in serving the whole Southeast. Fleets usually range from 30 to 100 trucks, but the bigger operations can have 200 or more on the road at any given time.

Most of these companies are privately owned and run late-model tractors and heavy-duty trailers. Altogether, they keep hundreds of drivers busy across the state of Alabama.

Flatbed Services in Alabama

Flatbed trucking is a backbone for Alabama’s construction, manufacturing, and agriculture industries. The companies here bring specialized gear and know-how to haul all sorts of loads safely—no two jobs are quite the same. Alabama flatbed outfits offer a pretty wide menu of services for all sorts of cargo. Standard flatbed hauling is the bread and butter—think 48-53 foot trailers moving lumber, steel, and building supplies.

Heavy haul services are for the really big stuff—oversized, overweight loads that need special permits and maybe even escort vehicles. We’re talking industrial machinery, big construction gear, and massive components.

If you need to move something extra heavy, Tri-axle and B-Train setups are available. These rigs boost weight capacity but still play by the rules.

Other specialized services you’ll find:

Custom securing for delicate or unusual equipment

Step deck/lowboy trailers for taller cargo

Conestoga (tarped) flatbeds for weather-sensitive loads

Multi-axle options to spread out the weight

Local and Regional Freight Solutions

Alabama carriers are pros at local and regional moves. Dixie Trucking, for example, has been around since 2000 and really knows how to handle short-haul and regional deliveries.

They typically offer things like:

Same-day or next-day deliveries
Scheduled routes
Flexible pickup/drop-off times
Cross-docking if you need it

Local flatbed services are a lifesaver for construction sites, factories, and distribution hubs in cities like Birmingham, Mobile, and Huntsville. Having terminals in these spots means faster, more efficient coverage.

Regional services reach into neighboring states, keeping businesses’ supply chains humming. These runs are usually quicker than what you’d get from a national carrier—most are wrapped up in a day or two, maybe three tops.

Long-Haul Flatbed Transportation

Some Alabama carriers tackle long-haul jobs too, moving freight from coast to coast. Montgomery Transport is a big name for interstate flatbed shipping.

What you get with these long-haul services:

Nationwide reach—literally coast to coast
Dedicated fleet management
Modern tracking tech, so you’re never in the dark
Team drivers for those time-sensitive hauls

These companies tend to run newer equipment and bigger fleets, so reliability isn’t usually a concern. They also tend to be pretty flexible with scheduling and can guarantee delivery windows if that’s a requirement.

Driver quality is a big deal, too. Carriers like Buddy Moore Trucking invest in driver safety and training, which is good for everyone on the road.

Specialized and Oversized Load Handling

Handling oversized and specialized cargo is almost an art form, and plenty of Alabama carriers have mastered it. Alabama Carriers is one example—they’ll take on pretty much any over-dimensional haul, big or small.

Specialized services usually include:

Overwidth/Overheight Loads: Moving stuff up to 16 feet wide
Heavy Haul: Loads weighing 80,000+ pounds
Escort Services: Arranging pilot vehicles for the really big stuff
Permit Handling: Taking care of all those annoying permits

They use all kinds of specialized trailers—step-decks, lowboys, extendables—to fit whatever weird shape or size you’ve got. Many have good relationships with state agencies, so permits and paperwork don’t slow things down too much.

Safety’s a whole different ballgame with oversized loads—route planning, risk checks, the works. Most of these carriers have seasoned drivers who know how to handle the logistics of tough jobs.

Criteria for Selecting Flatbed Transportation Services

Picking the right flatbed carrier isn’t just about price. There are a few things you’ll want to look at closely before you sign anything.

Safety Standards and Compliance

Safety record? That’s the first thing you should check. Make sure the carrier has low accident rates and is up to date with FMCSA regulations.

Don’t forget to check for all the basics:

CDLs for every driver
USDOT number
MC authority
BOC-3 filing
Insurance—no shortcuts here

The best carriers are always training their drivers, especially on how to secure loads properly. It’s not just about tying stuff down—it’s about doing it right, every time.

Regular equipment checks are a must. Well-kept trucks break down less and keep your freight moving on schedule. If a company doesn’t have a tight inspection routine, consider that a red flag.

Fleet Capabilities and Technology

Look at what kind of equipment they’ve got. You want a carrier with a range of trailers—standard flatbeds, step decks, the works—so they can handle whatever you throw at them.

Real-time tracking is a must these days. Carriers using GPS will keep you in the loop about where your shipment is at any moment.

Fleet age matters, too. Newer trucks mean fewer breakdowns and better fuel mileage, which could save you money and headaches.

Figure out what you actually need before you pick a carrier. Think about:

Your usual load sizes and weights
Where you’re shipping to and from
Any special gear you might need (tarps, chains, etc.)
How far you’re hauling most of the time

Reputation and Customer Reviews

Don’t skip the reviews. Check out what other shippers and drivers are saying—you’ll get a much better sense of what to expect.

Things to look for in reviews:

How often they deliver on time
If they’re easy to reach and communicate with
How they handle problems
Their load securement practices

Companies that have been around for years usually know how to navigate the ups and downs of the Alabama market. That kind of staying power counts for something.

Ask for references, especially from businesses with similar shipping needs. Sometimes the best info comes from a quick phone call with a current customer. You might hear things you’d never find online.

Memberships in industry groups and certifications don’t hurt either—they’re a good sign a company takes its reputation seriously.

Top Flatbed Trucking Companies in Alabama

You’ve got options when it comes to flatbed companies in Alabama—some of them are real standouts, with services that go way beyond the basics. These carriers each bring something different to the table, whether it’s experience, equipment, or just plain hustle.

Alabama Carriers is a top pick for flatbed and specialized hauling, especially if you’re in Birmingham. They handle over-dimensional loads and work with businesses of all sizes.

3800 Industrial Drive
P.O. Box 170489
Birmingham, AL 35217
800-721-7107
alabamacarriers.com

Buddy Moore Trucking gets high marks in recent reviews and has been in the flatbed game for decades. They know their stuff, plain and simple.

925 34th St N
Birmingham, AL 35222
205-949-2260
buddymooretrucking.com

PS Logistics, based right here in Alabama, offers a full slate of transportation options—including brokerage and 3PL services for the more complicated shipping puzzles.

1810 Ave. C
Ensley, AL 35218
pslogistics.com

P&S Trucking is a Birmingham based leader among flatbead trasportation for irregular routes, focusing on building materials, oil and natural gas, and steel industries.

PO Box 2487
866.705.0100
205.788.4000
pstrans.com

Other key industry players that are top trucking companies in Alabama- Bulldog Hiway Express, WTI Transport, Eastern Express, Inc, NGL Trasportation, Efinks Logistics and Goal Logistics.

Shipping Service Areas

Most Alabama flatbed companies claim regional and national coverage, although some, like Alabama Carriers, really zero in on the Southeast. If you need something shipped across the country, though, they’ll usually find a way.

Mobile-based outfits such as Eastern Express and WTI Transport are all about the Gulf Coast. Being right on the water, they’re in a good spot for fast moves throughout the southern states—definitely helps with logistics.

Plenty of Alabama carriers tackle cross-border services to Canada and Mexico too. That’s a plus for manufacturers who want reliable North American distribution, though you’ll want to double-check specifics for your cargo.

It seems like most of the bigger names have terminals scattered around Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery. That setup helps them cover Alabama’s busy manufacturing corridors without much lag time.

Unique Benefits

Specialized Equipment: The top Alabama flatbed carriers roll out a variety of trailer types, like:

Standard flatbeds (48′ and 53′)
Step decks
Double drops
RGNs (Removable Gooseneck)
Stretch trailers for those awkward, over-length hauls

Industry Experience: A lot of these companies have been around the block—steel, lumber, construction, you name it. That kind of experience matters when you’re trusting them with odd-sized or valuable loads.

Safety Records: Some Alabama flatbed carriers, like Bulldog Hiway Express, put a big emphasis on safety. Driver training and equipment upkeep are more than just buzzwords here—they’re a selling point.

Technology Integration: It’s not all old-school. Many providers have invested in tracking systems and logistics software, so customers get real-time updates and a better sense of control throughout the shipping process.

Employment and Career Opportunities

If you’re looking for work, Alabama’s flatbed trucking scene has a lot going on—competitive pay, benefits, and a steady demand for drivers who know their stuff. There’s room to move up, too, if you stick with it.

Driver Requirements for transportation companies

For flatbed trucking jobs in Alabama, you’ll need a CDL Class A, no way around that. Most companies want at least a year or two behind the wheel, and they’re pretty strict about verifying your experience.

Flatbed work isn’t just regular trucking—it’s more hands-on. You’ve got to be sharp with load securement, tarping, and using chains and straps. Not to mention, you’ll need to be in decent shape, since there’s a fair bit of lifting and climbing involved.

Companies expect a clean driving record—maybe a couple of minor violations, but nothing major. Drug testing is standard, both before you start and randomly after you’re hired.

Most places won’t look at you unless you’re at least 21, and honestly, a lot prefer drivers over 23 for insurance reasons. Background checks are the norm, just to keep things safe and above board.

Driver Training and Certification Programs

Plenty of Alabama flatbed carriers run their own training for new hires—usually a mix of classroom work (think safety rules, company policies) and hands-on practice with securement and tarping.

That hands-on part is huge. You’ll usually spend a week or two shadowing someone, learning the ropes—tarping, using the gear, and doing pre-trip checks. The timeline depends on how much experience you already have.

Some companies work with driving schools to create flatbed-specific courses. You might see training like:

Load securement certification
OSHA safety training
Defensive driving skills
Hazmat handling (if needed)

Ongoing education isn’t rare, either. Most experienced drivers have to take yearly refreshers—new rules, updated safety stuff. Some employers even help pay for extra certifications, which is a nice touch if you want to keep leveling up.

Frequently Asked Questions

There’s a lot of variation in Alabama’s flatbed trucking industry—standards, pay, benefits, you name it. Each company has its own quirks and coverage areas, so it’s worth digging into the details.

What are the top-rated flatbed trucking companies in Alabama?

Alabama’s got a handful of standout flatbed carriers. P&S Transportation in Birmingham is always near the top, thanks to their big fleet and solid safety record.

Montgomery Transport and Buddy Moore Trucking have built solid reputations for reliability and customer service. They seem to get good reviews from both clients and folks in the industry.

On the smaller side, Sunbelt Transport gets high marks, especially for handling specialized or oversized loads that need real flatbed expertise.

Which Alabama trucking companies offer the best employment benefits?

P&S Transportation has a pretty generous benefits package—medical, dental, vision, and even 401(k) matching. Drivers like their home time guarantees and the fact that they keep their trucks fairly new.

Boyd Bros. Transportation stands out for affordable health insurance and paid time off that increases with experience. They’ll even help with tuition for your dependents, which isn’t something you see everywhere.

WTI Transport offers per diem pay options that can boost your take-home thanks to tax perks. They try to balance solid pay with quality-of-life benefits, which is refreshing.

How do flatbed companies in Alabama differ in pay scales?

Pay’s all over the map. Big companies usually pay $0.45–0.60 per mile for experienced drivers, but some pay by percentage—around 25–30% of the load revenue.

Regional outfits might pay a little less per mile, but you’ll often get more home time and spend less time driving empty. Detention pay and tarp fees are becoming more common, so look out for those extras.

Performance bonuses vary a lot—some carriers hand out $250 to $1,000 quarterly for safety, depending on how they measure things. It pays to ask about the details or check their flatbed shipping policies.

What are the driver hiring requirements for in Alabama?

Most places want a CDL-A, you’ve got to be at least 21, and your record should be pretty clean—no more than a couple of moving violations in the last few years. A DUI will usually keep you out for at least five years, sometimes longer.

Some companies will take on new drivers if they offer training, but the better-paying jobs usually want at least two years’ flatbed experience. You’ll need to show proof of flatbed securement training for the tougher gigs.

Physical ability is a must—flatbed work means lifting and securing with chains and tarps. DOT physicals and drug tests are standard, so be prepared.

Which flatbed truckers in Alabama have the best industry reputation?

Boyd Bros. Transportation is known for its safety—lots of American Trucking Association awards and high CSA scores.

P&S Transportation gets recognition for their tech—load tracking, better driver communication, and newer trucks all play a part in their reputation.

Montgomery Transport is the go-to for heavy hauling and top-notch customer service. If you care about on-time delivery, they tend to outperform a lot of the competition when you’re comparing flatbed companies.

How do P&S Transportation’s locations and services compare to other Alabama flatbed truckers?

P&S Transportation calls Birmingham home, but they’ve also set up terminals all over Alabama—definitely a step up in coverage compared to a lot of their rivals. With those extra locations, drivers get more choices about where they start and finish their days, which, honestly, is a perk you don’t see everywhere.

They’re not just sticking to the basics, either. Alongside standard flatbed work, they offer step-deck and even heavy haul services. That’s a broader lineup than the smaller outfits, who usually just stick to the bread-and-butter flatbed gigs.

P&S hauls all sorts of freight—steel, lumber, building materials, machinery, you name it. Their fleet includes some specialty trailers you just won’t find at every Alabama carrier. If you’ve got an oversized load (oversized loads can be tricky), they’re probably one of the few regional players ready to handle it.