Flatbed Owner Operator Jobs: High-Paying Opportunities for O/O and Fleets in Franklin, TN

Are you a flatbed owner operator seeking reliable, high-earning flatbed trucking jobs? This guide dives into a prime opportunity from American Trucking Group, offering $4,500 to $5,000 weekly for flatbed O/O and fleet drivers in Franklin, TN. Learn what makes these flatbed owner operator positions stand out, from steady freight lanes to full logistics support, helping you focus on safe, efficient hauling.

Introduction

Flatbed owner operator jobs represent a lucrative niche in the trucking industry, where independent contractors—known as O/Os—own their equipment and contract with carriers for freight. These roles demand skill in securing loads, tarping, and navigating varied terrain, but they offer flexibility and top-tier pay. A recent posting from American Trucking Group highlights flatbed O/O and fleet opportunities in Franklin, TN, promising $4,500-$5,000 per week. Posted on October 12, 2025, this job emphasizes constant freight availability, allowing drivers to prioritize miles over back-office hassles.

Why target flatbed trucking jobs now? The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports trucking employment growth, with flatbed haulers in high demand for construction materials, machinery, and oversized loads. Keywords like “flatbed owner operator jobs near me” and “high paying flatbed O/O positions” see surging searches, reflecting a driver shortage. This introduction unpacks the Franklin, TN, opportunity, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of earnings, requirements, and strategies for success in flatbed fleets.

What Are Flatbed O/O Jobs?

Flatbed owner operators operate open-deck trailers without sides or roofs, ideal for non-containerized cargo. Unlike dry van or reefer trucking, flatbed O/O roles involve manual securing techniques, appealing to hands-on drivers earning premiums for specialized skills.

Analysis

This flatbed owner operator job from American Trucking Group in Franklin, TN, stands out for its competitive pay and driver-centric model. The posting promises “constant freight possibilities,” shifting logistics burdens—like load booking and dispatching—to the company, so O/Os focus on driving. Expected weekly gross of $4,500-$5,000 aligns with industry benchmarks from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), where top flatbed O/Os average $200,000-$260,000 annually after expenses.

Company Overview: American Trucking Group

American Trucking Group specializes in flatbed and heavy-haul freight, operating from Franklin, TN—a logistics hub near Nashville with access to I-65 and I-40 interstates. Their model supports both independent flatbed owner operators and fleet integrations, providing drop-and-hook options and fuel discounts. Verifiable via FMCSA records (DOT compliance required), the company maintains a safety rating, crucial for O/O partnerships.

Location Benefits: Franklin, TN Trucking Hub

Franklin, TN, offers strategic flatbed trucking lanes to the Southeast, Midwest, and beyond. Proximity to manufacturing centers ensures steady flatbed freight like steel coils and lumber. Local fuel costs average $3.50/gallon (EIA data, 2025), and home time is feasible with regional runs.

Salary Breakdown for Flatbed O/O Positions

The $4,500-$5,000 weekly range translates to 2,500-3,000 loaded miles at $1.80-$2.00/mile—standard for flatbed rates per DAT Trendlines. Deduct 20-30% for fuel, maintenance, and insurance; net take-home exceeds $3,000/week for efficient operators. Compare to company drivers at $1,800-$2,200/week (BLS data).

Summary

In summary, American Trucking Group’s flatbed owner operator jobs in Franklin, TN, deliver $4,500-$5,000 weekly pay through reliable freight and logistics handling. Ideal for experienced flatbed O/Os and fleets, this opportunity minimizes downtime while maximizing earnings in a high-demand sector. Key perks include steady work, Tennessee’s business-friendly environment, and support for independent contractors.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Securing flatbed owner operator jobs requires preparation. Start by verifying your CDL Class A with flatbed endorsements, TWIC card for certain loads, and clean MVR/DOT record. For this Franklin, TN, position:

Steps to Apply

1. Review FMCSA SAFER system for American Trucking Group’s authority.
2. Gather MC number, insurance proofs ($1M auto liability standard), and equipment specs (e.g., 48-53 ft flatbed trailers).
3. Submit resume highlighting flatbed miles (aim for 2+ years experience).
4. Prepare for chain-of-custody interviews on tarping and strapping per FMCSA 393.100-136 regs.
5. Negotiate percentages: Seek 88-92% of linehaul for O/Os.

Optimizing Earnings in Flatbed Trucking

Track fuel efficiency (target 6-7 MPG on flatbeds), use apps like Trucker Path for loads, and join load boards like DAT for backups. Maintain equipment via PM schedules to avoid breakdowns costing $500+/day.

Points of Caution

Flatbed owner operator jobs carry risks. Weather exposure increases tarping time (30-60 min/load), and oversized loads demand permits. Watch for:

• Deadhead Miles: Ensure contracts cap at 10% via fuel surcharges.
• Insurance Costs: $15,000-$25,000/year; shop progressive policies.
• ELD Compliance: HOS rules limit to 11-hour drives; violations fine $1,000+.
• Market Volatility: Flatbed spot rates fluctuate; lock in contract lanes.
• Equipment Wear: Flatbeds endure 20% more stress than vans—budget $0.15/mile maintenance.

Comparison

Versus other trucking segments, flatbed owner operator jobs excel in pay but demand physicality. Compare:

Flatbed O/O vs. Dry Van O/O

Flatbed: $1.80-$2.20/mile, manual labor. Dry van: $1.50-$1.80/mile, easier loading. Flatbed nets 15-20% more per BLS-adjusted data.

Flatbed vs. Reefer Trucking

Reefer adds reefer unit costs ($0.20/mile); flatbed simpler, with 10% higher rates (ATA Freight Index).

Regional Pay Comparison

Franklin, TN ($4,500-$5,000/week) beats Texas averages ($4,000) but trails California ($5,200) due to HCOL—per Rigbook analytics.

Legal Implications

For flatbed owner operators, legal aspects center on compliance. O/Os must hold active USDOT/MC authority (49 CFR Part 365), with $750,000 minimum cargo insurance for general freight. Contracts should specify force majeure, demurrage ($50/hour standard), and non-compete clauses (enforceable up to 1 year in TN). Lease-purchase pitfalls include balloon payments—review per FTC Used Car Rule analogs. Independent contractor status avoids misclassification suits under IRS 20-factor test. Verify via FMCSA portal before signing.

Conclusion

Flatbed owner operator jobs like American Trucking Group’s Franklin, TN, offering $4,500-$5,000 weekly, embody the independence and rewards of O/O trucking. By providing steady flatbed freight and logistics relief, it empowers drivers to thrive. Whether solo O/O or fleet operator, prioritize safety, compliance, and smart negotiations for long-term success. Apply today to capitalize on this verified opportunity in a booming flatbed market.

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