So, what is hotshots trucking? We’ll cover everything you need to know about these types of carriers so you can decide if they’re right for your business.
This refers to a carrier that makes smaller deliveries in standard pickup trucks. These companies are often smaller operations, or they might be run by someone who’s trying out trucking and thinking about eventually getting a commercial license.
Hot shot trucking is a way for you to get smaller, time-sensitive delivery service anywhere in the United States.
And what’s a hot shot load? It’s basically any load that can fit in either the bed of a pickup or a small trailer towed behind it.
The biggest advantage of using these services is cost. When you’re dealing with a larger freighting company any space they have in their trucks is extremely valuable. Those big trucks are expensive to run so they have to charge a fair bit. Smaller carriers will usually charge you less because they have less overhead.
These companies can also take much smaller loads. If you have a really small package it doesn’t make sense to go with a big carrier. If it’s small enough to ship in a standard pickup truck you’re probably better off going with hotshots trucking.
Hot Shot Trucking Requirements
There are very few requirements when it comes to starting a hot shot business. Virtually anyone who has a pickup truck can do it.
As long as loads don’t exceed 26,000 pounds businesses don’t need either an international fuel tax agreement or an international registration plan. And if a company keeps their loads to less than 10,000 pounds they don’t need a commercial license either.
This makes it a great business to start for anyone interested in trucking or delivering. A lot of people already have the necessary equipment which means there aren’t a lot of upfront costs involved in getting started. If someone is thinking about becoming a trucker hot shot trucking can help them decide if that sort of career and lifestyle is a good fit for them.
NON-CDL Hot Shot Trucking Requirements
Hot shot trucking is a specialized form of freight transportation that involves the transport of time-sensitive or high-priority goods and materials. Many hot shot trucking companies operate on a 24/7 basis, meaning they are able to provide their services at any time of day or night. Because of the nature of the goods they transport, hot shot truckers must often meet tight deadlines and deal with unexpected challenges along the way.
In order to become a hot shot trucker, there are several requirements that you must meet.
First, you must have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). You will also need to have experience driving a tractor-trailer combination vehicle and be familiar with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Finally, you must be able to pass a DOT physical examination and have a clean driving record.
Once you have met all of the requirements to become a hot shot trucker, you will need to find a company that is hiring. There are many hot shot trucking companies out there, so it should not be too difficult to find one that is hiring drivers. You can search online for job postings or contact trucking companies directly to inquire about open positions.
Once you have been hired by a hot shot trucking company, you will need to complete training. This training will teach you how to safely operate a hot shot truck and will cover topics such as load securement, trip planning, and emergency procedures. After you have completed your training, you will be ready to start transporting time-sensitive or high-priority goods and materials.
So, once more, if you're thinking about becoming a hot shot trucker, here's what you need to know:
- Hot shot drivers must have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). In addition to this, they must also have a clean driving record with no major violations. If you have any questions about whether or not you qualify for a hot shot driver position, be sure to check with the company you're interested in working for.
- Next, hot shot drivers must have their own truck and trailer. These can either be leased or owned outright, but they must be in good condition and capable of transporting the types of loads that will be required. Again, if you have any questions about whether or not your truck and trailer meet the requirements, be sure to check with the company you're interested in working for.
- Finally, hot shot drivers must have the appropriate insurance coverage. This includes liability insurance as well as cargo insurance. Be sure to get quotes from multiple insurers so that you can find the best rate possible.
What is a Hot Shot Driver
A hotshot driver is anyone who works for or owns a hotshot trucking company. As we already mentioned, a hotshot driver doesn’t need a commercial license if they stick to smaller truckloads. However, there are a few other requirements that need to be met.
All hotshot drivers must:
Have a Motor Carrier Authority Number
Get approval from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Meet the FMCSA’s physical requirements for driving
Most healthy individuals should have no problem meeting these requirements. Anyone interested in becoming a hotshot driver can apply from the FMCSA’s website.
What are the DoT Regulations for Hot Shot Trucks?
As with everything else, when it comes to the Department of Transportation’s (DoT) regulations weight is very important.
If the combined weight of a truck, trailer, and load is under 10,001 pounds then none of the DoT’s regulations apply. This is why it’s so important for hot shot drivers to be aware of the weight that they’re carrying, as just going one pound over can result in a number of regulations that will lead to more work and more costs.
So, just what are those regulations?
Hot shot trucks that carry loads over 10,001 pounds must:
Keep a driver logbook
Have a fire extinguisher on board
Have reflectors
Follow the DoT’s restrictions for driving time and rest time
Have a DoT license plate and load sticker
Businesses that stay under the weight limit can ignore all of these regulations.
What is a Hot Shot Truck? & Best Trucks for Hotshotting
Virtually any pickup truck can be used for hotshots trucking. Businesses need to decide what type of vehicle is best for their operation based on what they’re hauling, the weight of their loads, and whether or not they plan to use a trailer.
That being said, most hotshot carriers use larger trucks ranging from 14,000 to 26,000 pounds, as they’re able to handle larger shipments.
In case you’re wondering what is the best hot shot trucks, here are some of the most popular choices:
Dodge Ram 3500
GMC Sierra 3500
Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
Ford E-350
Ford F-350
Dodge Ram 4500
GMC Sierra 4500
Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
Ford E-450
Ford F-450
Dodge Ram 5500
GMC Sierra 5500
Chevrolet Silverado 5500 HD
Ford F-550
Peterbilt 325
There are plenty of hot shot truck options out there for hotshot drivers and as long as a truck is capable of hauling the types of loads a company needs it to it should be just fine.
Best Dually Truck for Hot Shot
Dually trucks are designed to haul heavy loads and tow large trailers. They have dual rear wheels that provide increased traction and stability. Hot shot trucking is a type of trucking service that involves hauling time-sensitive or high-priority cargo. Hot shot truckers often have to work long hours to meet tight deadlines.
So, what is the best dually truck for hot shot trucking? Here are a few things to consider:
Payload capacity: How much weight can your dually truck carry? This is important because you will need to be able to haul heavy loads when hot shot trucking.
Towing capacity: How much weight can your dually truck tow? This is important because you will need to be able to tow large trailers when hot shot trucking.
Fuel economy: How fuel efficient is your dually truck? This is important because you will be doing a lot of driving when hot shot trucking and you want to save on fuel costs.
Reliability: How reliable is your dually truck? This is important because you cannot afford to have your truck breaking down when you are on a tight deadline.
These are just a few things to consider when choosing the best dually truck for hot shot trucking. Make sure to do your research and choose a truck that will meet your needs.
Hot Shot Loads for Pickup Trucks
It's no secret that pickup trucks are some of the most popular vehicles on the road. And for good reason - they're versatile, tough, and can haul just about anything you need them to. But when it comes to hauling heavy loads, not all pickup trucks are created equal. That's where hot shot loads come in.
Hot shot loads are specialized truckloads designed to haul heavy or oversized cargo. Because of the nature of the cargo, hot shot loads require a bit more planning and preparation than your average load. But with a little know-how, you can get your hot shot load from point A to point B without a hitch.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing a hot shot load:
Make sure your cargo is properly secured
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's important to make sure your cargo is properly secured before hitting the road. Hot shot loads are often heavier and more cumbersome than your average load, so it's important to take the time to secure everything correctly.
If you're not sure how to do this, there are plenty of resources online or you can always ask a professional.
Choose the right route
Not all roads are created equal - especially when you're hauling a heavy load. Be sure to map out your route in advance and avoid any unnecessary detours or obstacles. Stick to smoothly paved roads whenever possible and avoid sharp turns or inclines.
Drive carefully
This one goes without saying, but it's important to take your time and drive carefully when you're hauling a hot shot load. Sudden stops, sharp turns, and aggressive driving can all lead to accidents or damage to your cargo.
So, take your time and get to your destination safely.
Following these simple tips will help ensure that your hot shot load makes it from point A to point B without any issues. Just remember to take your time, plan ahead, and drive safely and you'll be on your way in no time.
Best HotShot Trailers
Many trucking companies will opt to use trailers to increase the size of the loads they can carry. As with trucks, there are plenty of options when it comes to hot shot trailers.
Many hotshot drivers will have several different types of trailers available depending on the type of load they’re carrying.
Here are the most popular types of trailers:
Bumper Pull Trailers: These may be the most common hot shot trailers. This is because they’re very versatile and also affordable. They’re shorter and lighter than most other types of trailers which can help keep the total weight down. Of course, this also means they can carry less so they’re really only good for smaller loads.
Gooseneck Trailers: These trailers are longer than bumper pulls, have a better-turning radius, and can handle heavier loads. Of course, this also means they cost more which may be a problem for companies operating on a budget. Depending on the type of gooseneck trailer some licensing and training may be required.
Tilt Deck Trailers: These trailers tilt at an angle that allows cars and other equipment with wheels to be easily loaded on and off.
Dovetail Trailers: These are similar to tilt deck trailers but they have a more gradual angle making them ideal for loading low-riding and longer vehicles.
Deckover Trailers: These trailers have a wider deck and no wheel wells, making them a great choice for hauling large equipment that needs a little more space.
Lowboy Trailers: As the name suggests, lowboy trailers are low to the ground. This helps make sure that taller loads can meet height restrictions.
Equipment Needed for Hot Shot Trucking
If you're thinking about getting into hot shot trucking, you might be wondering what kind of equipment you'll need.
Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need to get started:
A truck that can handle the load. This means a heavy-duty truck with a strong engine. You'll also need a trailer that is big enough to haul your load.
The proper permits and insurance. You'll need to make sure that you have all of the necessary permits and insurance in order to operate legally.
A GPS system. This will help you navigate to your destination safely and efficiently.
A good communication system. This includes a cell phone and two-way radio. You'll need to be able to communicate with your dispatcher and other drivers.
Basic tools and supplies. This includes things like jumper cables, a first aid kit, and tie-downs.
With the proper equipment, you'll be ready to get started in hot shot trucking.
How to Start a Hot Shot Business?
Assuming you have a truck that can handle the loads, there are just a few other things you'll need to get started with your hot shot business.
First, you'll need to obtain the proper insurance for your business. This will protect you in case of any accidents or damage that may occur while transporting your load.
Next, you'll need to obtain a DOT number from the Department of Transportation. This will be required on all of your vehicles and trailers.
Finally, you'll need to create a shipping contract that outlines the terms and conditions of your service. This will protect both you and your customer in case of any problems that may arise during transport.
With these simple steps, you'll be on your way to starting your own hot shot business. Just remember to always put safety first and you'll be sure to succeed.
What is HotShots Trucking Used For?
As we’ve discussed, hotshots trucking is used for smaller loads that need to be delivered fairly quickly. Some common loads include:
Building materials
Small vehicles
Equipment
Smaller machinery
If you have a load that’s relatively small and you aren’t getting the type of price you want from larger carriers it’s definitely worth looking into hotshots trucking.
