ATS Securement Training – What to Expect

Securement is one of the most important parts of being a flatbed or specialized truck driver. At Anderson Trucking Service, drivers in these divisions begin their careers with a focused and supportive training program designed to prepare them for real-world freight and real-life responsibilities.

Led by experienced safety professionals like Jody King, the securement training is practical, hands-on, and built for both new and experienced drivers. Whether you’ve been pulling flatbeds for years or you’re stepping into this type of freight for the first time, ATS makes sure you’re ready to roll safely and confidently.

Two-Day Securement Training

Drivers in ATS’s Specialized and Flatbed Divisions go through a two-day securement training during orientation in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Day one is classroom-based, typically lasting about five hours. During this session, you’ll go over what DOT expects, company-specific securement procedures, safety basics, and how to stay compliant. If you’ve never worked with open-deck freight before, don’t worry! Everything on the final written test is taught during the classroom training.

Day two is hands-on. Drivers practice securing various types of freight using real equipment. You’ll also train on how to disassemble and reassemble removable gooseneck trailers, whether you’ve worked with one before or not. ATS believes in building skills through repetition, not pressure. So even if this is your first time around this kind of gear, the goal is to help you build confidence, not rush through it.

No Experience? No Problem

Not every driver walks in with flatbed experience. That’s okay.

If you’re new to securement or open-deck freight, ATS simply adds more training to your schedule. That means extra hands-on time, more support, and step-by-step instruction on things like proper tarping and load checks. The focus stays on safety and consistency.

The written test at the end of the classroom day reviews everything you’ve learned, including:

• DOT regulations

• Securement types (direct vs. indirect)

• Product-specific securement techniques

By the time you leave, you’ll have a strong foundation in the securement expectations that matter most at ATS and across the industry.

A Focus on Safety

Safety is always the top priority. And in flatbed and specialized hauling, that starts with securement.

Drivers are trained to take their time and check their work. When in doubt, they’re encouraged to send pictures of their securement to the ATS securement line. A safety team member will review those photos and offer feedback to ensure loads are properly secured before the truck ever moves.

This kind of support helps protect drivers, customers, the public, and it gives peace of mind to those learning new skills or taking on bigger challenges.

Ongoing Support

Learning doesn’t stop after orientation. ATS drivers have access to securement tips and tools through the company’s driver app, which includes:

• Securement guidelines

• Step-by-step visual references

• Emergency contact info

• Safety and compliance reminders

Whether you’re on the road or at a shipper, help is never far away.

Support Team

The securement team at ATS is here to support every driver who comes through orientation. You’re never expected to know everything on day one. But you are expected to ask questions, speak up when you’re unsure, and commit to learning.

If you need help, you can contact Jody King, David Franklin, or anyone in the ATS safety department. From freight checks to trailer equipment questions, there’s always someone ready to walk you through it.

Start Your Flatbed or Specialized Career With Confidence

No matter your background, ATS wants every driver in the Specialized and Flatbed Divisions to feel equipped and confident when it’s time to haul. With structured training, hands-on practice, and real support, that’s exactly what you can expect.

If you’re ready to build a strong career with the backing of a team that puts safety first, apply today at https://www.drive4ats.com/apply-now