Hot shot trucking, also known as hotshotting, involves carrying smaller, time-sensitive loads to a single customer or location using medium-duty trucks towing flatbed trailers. These loads are typically delivered using flatbed trailers towed by medium-duty trucks and are smaller in size and weight compared to the loads carried by larger tractor-trailers used in traditional freight transportation.
While the specific requirements for hot shot trucking vary from company to company, it often involves providing pickup and delivery services for specialized freight such as oversized loads or hazardous materials, as well as expedited deliveries throughout the country.
If you’re considering starting a hot shot business, it’s important to note that hot shot truckers are typically independent contractors who own their own trucks and may use them to provide services like hot shot trucking.
In this article, we will explore the requirements, truck types used, safety considerations, rates, and logistics involved in hot shot trucking.
Hot Shot Hauling Requirements
The fact of the matter is that hot shot trucking requirements vary from company to company. Commonly, hot shot trucking can refer to various activities, including pickup and delivery services for specialized freight like oversized loads of construction equipment or hazardous materials, as well as expedited deliveries throughout the country.
With hot shot trucking, cargo is typically delivered using a pickup truck or van that’s smaller in size. This type of shipping is different from expedited shipping, which generally uses larger vehicles like tractor-trailers.
Hot Shot Drivers
Hot shot truckers are often independent contractors who own their own trucks and may use them to provide services like hot shot trucking. This means that if you are looking to start a hot shot business, you will need to have your own truck and trailer, as well as any necessary permits and licenses.
What Do Hot Shot Truckers Do?
The biggest benefit of hot shot trucking is the flexibility it provides in terms of when to take on loads and where they can be delivered. If a job requires you to be able to make quick turnaround times or deliver items at odd hours, then this type of trucking may be ideal for you. Since hot shots often work with just one customer at a time, it’s much easier for them to establish long-term relationships with customers than other freight transportation companies.
Hot shot trucking is a great way to get into the freight transportation industry if you’re looking for flexibility and the ability to build relationships with customers. If you have your own truck, it can be a great business opportunity. However, be sure to do your research and make sure that all of your paperwork and licensing are up-to-date.
Truck Types Used For Hot Shot Hauls
Hot shot jobs are typically most commonly handled by pickup trucks, vans, and trailer-towing medium-duty trucks. Pickups can usually carry loads of up to 3,000 pounds and some vans can pull up to 5,000 pounds. Medium-duty trucks have maximum load capacities that range from 10,000 to 16,000 pounds and flatbed trailers often have a maximum payload capacity of 11,500 pounds.
Safety Considerations For Hot Shot Truckers
It’s important for hot shot truckers to be aware of the safety considerations associated with their job. Overloading your vehicle can result in serious accidents or even deaths so it’s essential that you follow weight regulations when loading your truck. Additionally, always make sure to check the weather forecast for any areas you’ll be traveling through and adjust your speed accordingly. Finally, never drive tired or distracted, and make sure to take regular breaks during long hauls.
Hot Shot Trucking Rates
The rate for hot shot trucking services will vary depending on the length of the haul, weight of the load, fuel costs, time of delivery and other factors. Generally speaking, most hot shot companies charge a per-mile rate with additional fees for loading/unloading and tolls. Keep in mind that there may also be extra charges for certain types of cargo such as hazardous materials or oversized loads.
Requirements and Logistics For Hot Shot Trucking
As we mentioned, in addition to having your own truck and trailer, you also need to make sure that all of the necessary permits and licenses are in order. Getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is typically required for any type of freight transportation and you may need to apply for a special permit if you plan on hauling oversized or hazardous materials. Ensure that your insurance coverage is up-to-date.
Hot shot trucking can be an exciting and lucrative way to get into the freight transportation industry. With flexible hours, fast turnaround times, and the ability to build relationships with customers, hot shot truckers have the opportunity to make good money while doing something they love. Just remember to do your research beforehand so that you are well prepared before hitting the road.
Additionally, there are certain regulations that must be followed when it comes to trucking including hours-of-service rules, which limit how many hours a driver can spend on the road each day. Lastly, you will have to handle things like bookkeeping and routing, so consider investing in software or services that can help take care of these tasks for you.
Working with QRC For Quality 3PL Solutions
At QRC, we understand the unique challenges faced by hot shot truckers and are dedicated to providing quality third-party logistics (3PL) solutions. We have a team of experts who will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your loads get where they need to be on time and in perfect condition. Contact us today for more information about our services!
Final Word
Overall, hot shot trucking is an exciting way to get into the freight transportation industry. With its high demand for quick turnaround times and customer service, it’s no wonder why this type of shipping has become so popular over the years. If you’re looking for a great business opportunity with the potential to make good money, hot shot trucking could be the right choice for you.