The flatbed trailer, often configured with the logging carriage, consistently ranks as the top earner in American Truck Simulator (ATS) due to its high-value cargo options and relatively straightforward handling. Its versatility in hauling a diverse range of goods, from lumber to heavy machinery, ensures a steady stream of profitable contracts, making it the undisputed champion for maximizing in-game income.
Maximizing Profitability with Flatbed Trailers
While other trailers offer specialized capabilities, the flatbed trailer’s adaptability and the types of cargo it can transport lead to higher earnings per mile. It’s not just about the initial cost of the trailer; it’s about the long-term return on investment (ROI) and the consistent availability of high-paying jobs. Factors influencing profitability include:
- Cargo Type: Certain goods, like heavy machinery, oversized equipment, and specific types of timber, command premium prices due to their weight, dimensions, and destination requirements.
- Route Length: Longer routes, especially those traversing challenging terrains or connecting distant cities, typically offer higher payouts.
- Skill Level: As your driver’s skills improve, particularly in skills like “Long Haul” and “High Value Cargo,” you unlock access to more lucrative contracts.
- Economy Fluctuations: Supply and demand within the game’s simulated economy impact cargo rates. Monitoring these fluctuations can help identify high-profit opportunities.
- DLC Impact: The addition of new states and industries through downloadable content (DLC) introduces new cargo types and routes, further enhancing the potential earnings with flatbed trailers.
The logging carriage configuration is particularly profitable due to the consistent demand for lumber and the high weight of the loads. However, it also requires careful driving due to the unique handling characteristics of log trailers.
Alternative Trailers for Earning Potential
While the flatbed dominates overall profitability, other trailers can also generate substantial income under specific circumstances:
- Lowboy Trailers: Ideal for transporting extremely heavy and oversized loads like construction equipment and industrial components. These trailers are often used for special transport jobs, offering very high payouts but also demanding exceptional driving skills and careful route planning.
- Dry Van Trailers: Offer consistent work and a wide range of cargo options, making them a reliable source of income, especially for new players. While individual loads might not be as lucrative as those hauled by flatbeds or lowboys, the volume of available contracts can lead to substantial earnings over time.
- Reefer Trailers: Specializes in transporting perishable goods like food and produce. These trailers offer decent payouts and are often in high demand, particularly in regions with significant agricultural production.
- Tanker Trailers: Used for hauling liquids, including fuel and chemicals. These trailers can be profitable, but they require careful handling due to the dynamic weight distribution and potential for cargo spillage.
Ultimately, the best trailer for earning money depends on your playstyle, skills, and the specific opportunities available in the game. However, the flatbed, particularly with the logging carriage, remains the consistently top performer.
Strategic Tips for Maximizing Earnings
Beyond the trailer itself, several strategies can significantly boost your income in American Truck Simulator:
- Invest in Driver Skills: Focus on upgrading skills like “Long Haul,” “High Value Cargo,” “Fragile Cargo,” and “Eco-Driving.” These skills unlock higher-paying contracts, reduce damage, and improve fuel efficiency.
- Establish Your Own Company: Owning your own company allows you to hire drivers and purchase additional trucks and trailers, significantly expanding your earning potential.
- Expand Your Garage Network: Owning garages in multiple cities provides access to a wider range of contracts and allows you to strategically position your drivers and trucks.
- Take Advantage of Quick Jobs: Quick jobs can be a good way to earn money and gain experience, especially when starting out.
- Stay Updated with DLC: New DLC adds new states, industries, and cargo types, which can create new opportunities for high-paying contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What specific cargo on a flatbed trailer yields the highest profit per mile?
Lumber and Heavy Machinery generally provide the highest profit per mile for flatbed trailers. Lumber benefits from consistent demand and relatively short delivery times, while Heavy Machinery often offers substantial payouts due to the complexity and risk associated with transporting oversized loads.
2. Does the weight of the cargo affect the payout in ATS?
Yes, the weight of the cargo is a significant factor in determining the payout. Heavier loads typically command higher prices due to the increased wear and tear on the truck and the greater challenge of hauling them.
3. How does the “Long Haul” skill impact earnings with a flatbed trailer?
The “Long Haul” skill directly increases the availability of long-distance contracts, which generally offer higher payouts per mile. Since flatbeds are versatile and can haul a wide variety of goods over long distances, investing in this skill significantly boosts their earning potential.
4. Are there any mods that can further enhance the earning potential of flatbed trailers?
Yes, numerous mods are available that can enhance the earning potential of flatbed trailers. These mods may include:
- Realistic cargo prices: Adjusts the prices of cargo to better reflect real-world market values.
- Improved flatbed models: Adds more detailed and realistic flatbed trailers.
- Extended cargo options: Introduces new types of cargo that can be hauled on flatbed trailers.
5. How important is fuel efficiency when using a flatbed trailer for long-distance hauls?
Fuel efficiency is crucial for maximizing profits on long-distance hauls. Reducing fuel consumption directly impacts your operating costs and increases your net earnings. Investing in the “Eco-Driving” skill and choosing fuel-efficient trucks and driving habits can significantly improve your bottom line.
6. Can I haul oversized loads with a flatbed trailer in ATS?
Yes, flatbed trailers are often used to haul oversized loads, particularly with the “Heavy Cargo Pack” DLC. These loads require careful route planning and specialized driving skills, but they offer very high payouts.
7. What is the ideal truck setup for maximizing profits with a flatbed trailer?
A powerful truck with a high torque rating and a durable transmission is essential for hauling heavy loads on a flatbed trailer. Consider investing in a truck with a long wheelbase for improved stability and handling, especially when transporting oversized cargo.
8. How does the game’s economy affect the profitability of different cargo types on a flatbed trailer?
The game’s simulated economy fluctuates based on supply and demand. When demand for a particular cargo type is high and supply is low, the price will increase, making it more profitable to haul. Monitoring these fluctuations can help you identify high-profit opportunities.
9. What are the risks associated with hauling high-value cargo on a flatbed trailer?
Hauling high-value cargo increases the risk of damage, which can reduce your payout. Invest in skills like “Fragile Cargo” and “Just-in-Time Delivery” to minimize the risk of damage and ensure timely delivery.
10. Is it better to focus on short, frequent hauls or long, less frequent hauls with a flatbed trailer?
The optimal approach depends on your playstyle and preferences. Short, frequent hauls offer a consistent stream of income and are less susceptible to delays or disruptions. Long, less frequent hauls can be more profitable per mile, but they require more time and planning.
11. How do I choose the best route for hauling cargo on a flatbed trailer?
Use the in-game map and navigation system to plan the most efficient route, taking into account factors such as distance, road conditions, traffic, and potential hazards. Consider using external tools like route planners and GPS devices to optimize your route further.
12. Beyond flatbeds, which DLC offers the best alternative trailer options for maximizing earnings?
The “Heavy Cargo Pack” and “Special Transport” DLCs offer excellent alternative trailer options, specifically lowboys, for hauling exceptionally heavy and oversized loads. These jobs command the highest payouts but require precise driving and coordination. They are often the most challenging but rewarding jobs in the game.