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Flatbed Owner Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

XLNC Exotic

Truck Driver

San Diego, CA

Owner-Operator Truck Driver (Own Truck Mandatory) Overview We are seeking a skilled and reliable ... flatbeds, refrigerated trailers, tanker trucks, dump trucks, and roll-off trucks. This role ...

MILESTONE XPRESS INC

Be Seen First

CDL-A Driver | Flatbed

Woodland, CA

... owned trucking company building its California operation after successfully operating hotshot ... Assigned Ram 3500 dually and 40ft gooseneck flatbed trailer * Fuel card provided * W-2 employee ...

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All JobsFlatbed Owner Operator JobsFlatbed Owner Operator Jobs in California

Flatbed Owner Operator information

See California salary details

$275

$5.6K

$6.7K

How much do flatbed owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for flatbed owner operator in California is $5,580.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,450.00 and $6,642.31 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flatbed Owner Operator vs Van Owner Operator?

AspectFlatbed Owner OperatorVan Owner Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), experience with flatbed equipmentCDL optional or standard driver's license, experience with van freight
Work EnvironmentOpen flatbed trailers, loading/unloading with straps and tarpsEnclosed trailers, loading/unloading with pallets and forklifts
Industry UsageConstruction, industrial, and large equipment transportGeneral freight, retail, and e-commerce deliveries

Flatbed Owner Operators typically handle specialized loads requiring securement skills and often work in construction or industrial sectors. Van Owner Operators focus on enclosed freight, suitable for retail and general cargo. Both roles require similar licensing but differ in equipment and work environment, catering to distinct freight types and industry needs.

What are some common challenges flatbed owner operators face while transporting oversized or irregular loads?

Flatbed Owner Operators often deal with oversized or irregular loads that require special handling, securement, and routing. These challenges include ensuring loads are properly secured with appropriate equipment, adhering to state and federal regulations for oversized transport, and coordinating with dispatchers and clients for permits and escorts when necessary. Weather conditions and route restrictions can also impact delivery schedules, so adaptability and strong planning skills are crucial for success in this role.

What is a flatbed owner operator?

Flatbed Owner Operators are independent truck drivers who own and operate their own flatbed trucks to transport large, heavy, or unusually shaped cargo. Unlike company drivers, they are self-employed and contract with shippers or freight brokers to haul loads. Flatbed Owner Operators are responsible for securing their cargo, maintaining their vehicles, and managing their business operations, including finding loads and handling finances. This job requires specialized knowledge in load securement and compliance with safety regulations. Successful Flatbed Owner Operators often enjoy greater flexibility and earning potential, but also take on more responsibility and risk.

How do I become an owner operator flatbed?

To become an owner operator flatbed driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), usually a Class A, and a few years of driving experience. You must also secure a business license, obtain necessary permits, and purchase or lease a suitable flatbed truck, while maintaining a good driving record and understanding load securement and safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flatbed owner operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flatbed Owner Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), thorough knowledge of flatbed trucking regulations, and experience with cargo securement and loading. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS routing systems, and routine truck maintenance procedures is crucial. Strong time management, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help build client relationships and ensure timely deliveries. These skills and qualities are vital for safely transporting oversized or irregular loads while maximizing efficiency and profitability.

What does a flatbed owner operator do?

A flatbed owner operator has their own commercial vehicle and works on the road as a truck driver hauling various goods throughout the country. As a flatbed owner operator, your primary duties include the safe transport and on-time delivery of products, undamaged. You can haul anything from raw materials like steel and lumber, to construction equipment, vehicles, home goods, frozen foods, and fresh produce. You can be an independent contractor, or work with a larger company that provides truck drivers to their client base. There are part-time, full-time, and seasonal opportunities available. Some employers offer benefits, retirement plans, paid time off, and steady work.

Is a flatbed owner operator worth it?

A flatbed owner operator can earn higher pay due to specialized loads and the ability to set their own schedules, but they also face higher expenses for equipment, maintenance, and insurance. Success depends on experience, load availability, and managing operational costs effectively.
More about Flatbed Owner Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Flatbed Owner Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Flatbed Owner Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in CA? For Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Flatbed Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flatbed Owner Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $290,197 per year, or $139.5 per hour.

CDL A Flatbed Owner Operator

TP Trucking & Logistics

Los Angeles, CA

$250K - $280K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Requirements:Qualifications

•Must have a valid Class A CDL

•Must be 21 years of age or older

•12+ months of flatbed OTR driving experience 

•A safe driving record on the road

•Equipment must be newer than 2014

•Background Check is required

•Clean Drug Test is required

•Clean Clearinghouse result is required

•Work competency test will be required

•We accept both tractor-only and tractor/trailer

Job Description:

CDL-A Flatbed Owner Operators – Keep 85% of Gross   At 

TP Trucking, you’re not just another truck—you’re running your own business with 

real revenue, direct freight, and real support.  

Top-End Pay That Beats the Market

•

Keep 85% of gross revenue

•

100% fuel surcharge + ALL accessorials paid to you

•

$22K+ monthly earnings potential after fixed costs

•Weekly 

direct deposit – no delays, no guessing  

Why Experienced Owner Operators Choose TP

•Run anywhere in the 

Western 11 – NO forced dispatch

•

Direct Timber Products freight – NO broker boards, NO load chasing

•

Dedicated dispatcher – support without losing control

•

No-touch flatbed freight – stay moving, not working freight

•

Stable, customer-backed freight network  

Maximize Your Take-Home

•

Fuel card with strong discounts – keep more per gallon

•National tire program + 

discounted maintenance rates

•Access to 

in-house shop for priority repairs

More of what you earn stays in your pocket   

Requirements

•Valid 

CDL-A

•

6+ months flatbed OTR experience

•

21+ years old

•Safe driving record

•Truck must be 

2014 or newer (clean & maintained)

•Pass 

DOT inspection, drug test, and Clearinghouse     

Bottom LineMost carriers pay 

70–75% and make you chase freight.

At TP, you keep 85%, haul direct customer freight, and run your business your way.     

Apply Today – Owner Operator Openings LimitedWage Range: $250000 per year - $280000 per year Annually USDGeneral Description of Benefits: No Benefits Available