Tech Rig Dispatch

Route Planning for Flatbed Trucks

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Route Planning for Flatbed Trucks to
Maximize Profits

The Flatbed Route Optimization Challenge

Flatbed trucking demands a unique approach to route planning. With oversized loads and specialized cargo, your routes require careful consideration beyond simple point A to point B logistics.

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The CPM-RPM Balance

Cost Per Mile (CPM) and Rate Per Mile (RPM) are crucial metrics in flatbed trucking. Effective route planning directly impacts these numbers:

  • CPM: Includes fuel, maintenance, and driver pay
  • RPM: The rate you charge per mile
  • Your goal: Maximize the gap between CPM and RPM

Mapping the Money Lanes

High-Yield Corridors

Identify routes with consistently high RPM for flatbed loads. These often connect:

  • Industrial centers
  • Construction hubs
  • Energy production sites

Eliminating Empty Miles

Empty flatbeds are profit killers. Plan routes with backhaul opportunities to keep your RPM high and your truck loaded.

Navigating Weight Restrictions

Flatbeds often carry weighty cargo. Plan routes that accommodate:

  • Bridge weight limits
  • Road restrictions for oversized loads
  • Weigh station locations

Fuel Strategy Is More Than Just Pit Stops

Strategic fuel planning can significantly lower your CPM:

  • Map out fuel stops in lower-cost areas
  • Consider fuel card discounts in your route
  • Factor in idle time for oversized load inspections

Time Management in Route Planning

Flatbed loads often require extra time for securing and tarping. Your route should account for:

  • Required rest breaks
  • Realistic loading/unloading times
  • Potential weather delays affecting exposed cargo
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The Permit Puzzle

Many flatbed loads require special permits. Efficient route planning includes:

  • Researching permit requirements across states
  • Factoring in permit acquisition time
  • Planning routes that maximize multi-state permits

Seasonal Considerations

Flatbed demand shifts with the seasons. Adjust your route planning to capitalize on:

  • Construction booms in warmer months
  • Agricultural harvests in the fall
  • Energy sector projects year-round

Technology: Your Route Planning Ally

Modern routing software can help optimize your CPM-RPM spread:

  • Real-time traffic and weather updates
  • Fuel price mapping
  • Load matching for efficient multi-stop routes

The Long Haul vs. Short Haul Debate

Analyze your operational data to determine which route types maximize your RPM while minimizing CPM:

  • Long hauls: Higher per-trip revenue, but increased fuel costs
  • Short hauls: More frequent loads, but potentially higher overall operating costs

Safety First

Flatbed loads present unique safety challenges. Prioritize routes that offer:

  • Safe places for load checks and adjustments
  • Alternative paths in case of road closures or accidents
  • Access to repair facilities familiar with flatbed equipment

The Route Planning Feedback Loop

Regularly analyze completed routes:

  • Compare actual CPM and RPM to projections
  • Identify unexpected challenges or delays
  • Adjust future planning based on real-world data

Let’s Talk Next Steps

Don’t let your box truck sit idle. Call Tech Rig Dispatch now or email us.
Let’s discuss how we can help you find better loads and streamline your operations.
In this business, time is money. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can start seeing improvements in your box truck freight business.

Elevate Your Flatbed Route Planning with Tech Rig Dispatch

Tired of leaving money on the table with inefficient routes? Tech Rig Dispatch specializes in optimizing flatbed trucking operations to maximize your profits.

Our team of experts combines industry knowledge with cutting-edge technology to:

  • Identify high-RPM lanes tailored to your equipment
  • Minimize your CPM through strategic route and fuel planning
  • Navigate permit complexities across multiple states
  • Find lucrative backhaul opportunities to boost your bottom line

Don’t let suboptimal routes eat into your profits. Partner with Tech Rig Dispatch and transform your flatbed operation into a model of efficiency and profitability.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s analyze your current routes and discover untapped potential in your flatbed business. With Tech Rig Dispatch, you’re not just planning routes – you’re paving the way to increased success in the competitive world of flatbed trucking.