What Is Hot Shot Trucking?

Looking to get into trucking without making a big investment? Hotshot trucking might be for you. Hotshotting is an easier way to break into the trucking industry without the same high expenses and limited control. If you want more control over your hours and loads, hotshot trucking is a great career option.

Let’s break down all the basics of hotshot trucking to help you get started and make money fast.

Overview of hotshot trucking

Hotshot trucking is the transport of small, time-sensitive less-than-truckload (LTL) loads within a specific time frame, usually to a single customer or location. Hotshot loads usually involve flatbed trailers attached to medium-duty trucks. Typically, hotshot truckers are freelance owner-operators who find loads through load boards, picking the ones that best fit their schedule and needs. While normal freight transport hauls commercial bulk loads over long distances, hotshotting has quick turnarounds and shorter distances. It’s more flexible than standard trucking since there are no set schedules and routes. Hotshot drivers are often booked for a delivery job on the fly to avoid the company losing out on productivity.who find loads through load boards, picking the ones that best fit their schedule and needs. While normal freight transport hauls commercial bulk loads over long distances, hotshotting has quick turnarounds and shorter distances. It’s more flexible than standard trucking since there are no set schedules and routes. Hotshot drivers are often booked for a delivery job on the fly to avoid the company losing out on productivity.

For example, if a builder needs a piece of construction equipment delivered to a job to keep a project on time, they might post it on a load board as a hotshot load to get it delivered ASAP at a higher rate. If you want to make money on the side or start a flexible career in trucking, hotshotting is an excellent place to look.

Trucks and trailers used in hotshot hauling

Not all trucks and trailers are created equal — the kind of hotshot hauling you want to do affects the equipment you invest in. Make sure you understand what you’re going to haul and what your budget is. Different trucks and trailers will affect your loads and maintenance costs, so choose wisely.

Truck types used for hotshot hauls

A hotshot driver can use various truck types, but it’s common to use medium-duty trucks based on classifications by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). These trucks are generally classified as noncommercial vehicles, but can be used for hotshot trucking if you have your operating authority, a United States Department of Transportation number (if you’re hauling over state lines), liability insurance, and proof that you have your own business.

Hotshot trucks can be pickups, flatbeds, box trucks, or even delivery vans or small buses. They typically fall into the following categories:

• Class 3: Class 3 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 10,001-14,000 pounds and a minimum of six tires.
• Class 4: Class 4 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 14,001-16,000 pounds. While heavy, these trucks are still classified as noncommercial. If you anticipate hauling larger loads, you may want to invest in a Class 4 pickup truck.
• Class 5: Class 5 medium-duty trucks have a weight limit of 16,001-19,500 pounds. Some of the lightest commercial trucks are Class 5, including the Kenworth T170, Peterbilt 325, and International TerraStar.

Trailer types used for hotshot shipping

Choosing a trailer is a big decision and depends mostly on the pickup truck you’re using and the types of loads you intend to haul:

1. Bumper pull trailers: These trailers are generally shorter and less expensive than other trailers. They’re easy to use and popular with drivers new to hotshot truck driving. The one drawback is that these trailers don’t have much capacity and can sway or become unstable if the combined load gets too high.
2. Gooseneck trailers: With a tighter turn radius and better stability than bumper pull trailers, gooseneck trailers can usually carry larger, heavier loads, but they might need a special hitching system. If you’re dedicated to hotshot trucking, you may want to invest in a gooseneck trailer over a bumper pull trailer.
3. Tilt deck trailers: These trailers tilt so you can load heavy cargo more easily. Then you can return them to a flat position for transport. These trailers have a hydraulics system that requires filter and oil changes, so maintenance costs for this trailer might be slightly higher.
4. Lowboy trailers: Lowboy trailers have a low center of gravity, which is ideal for the heaviest loads. They lay flat on the ground when detached from your truck. If you need to transport a tall load, a lowboy flatbed trailer can help you clear certain height restrictions. The one drawback to lowboy trailers is the minimal deck space.
5. Dovetail trailers: If you’re hauling cars or other equipment with wheels, a dovetail trailer is affordable. It’s also easy to resell when you no longer need it. One drawback is that they hang low at the back of the trailer, so it’s difficult to haul anything up a steep incline without dragging.

Why get into hotshot trucking?

Hotshot trucking can be a great side gig — or even a full-time job — if you have the right setup.

• Flexibility: Hotshot trucking means more freedom in your work, so consider it if you’re looking for flexibility.
• Low start-up cost: One of the biggest perks of hotshot trucking is the low investment cost. Traditionally, owner-operators need a Class 8 semi to work. These are expensive to insure and invest in. Hotshot drivers can use a Class 3 to 5 truck for their work. These are much more affordable to buy and insure, making them perfect for starting out.
• High-paying loads: Because hotshot jobs often involve urgent deliveries, shippers are willing to pay premium rates. 
• Control your schedule: You decide which loads to haul and when to take a break. No forced dispatch means you have more freedom to run your business your way. 
• Variety: Hotshot trucking also gives you the opportunity to haul interesting loads on almost every job. Many drivers enjoy the challenge of the job and take pride in helping customers on a tight deadline.

Common hotshot trucking challenges

While hotshot trucking can be a rewarding career, it has its pros and cons — you just have to decide if the benefits outweigh the negatives. The biggest downside? Your income can be unpredictable.

Hotshot trucking pays per mile, so you can’t expect a regular owner-operator salary. Deadheading — driving empty between loads — cuts into profits, and loads aren’t always available when you need them. It takes work to find loads and stay profitable, so make sure you’re prepared for inconsistent workdays.

Hotshot trucking also requires you to build your own business. While traditional trucking has a built-in network for finding loads, you have to secure them yourself. That means networking with brokers, tracking expenses, and handling your own load searches. Plus, you still have to follow most of the same regulations as other carriers, including insurance laws, hours of service (HOS) logging, and drug and alcohol testing.

Essential tools and requirements for hotshot drivers

Once you get your truck and trailer, you might think you’re ready to hit the road. However, you still need a few more tools and documents before you can get driving. Make sure you have a solid set of equipment and your proper licensing to avoid starting your hotshot trucking career off on the wrong foot.

Must-have tools for hotshot trucking

First, let’s get you outfitted with the essentials. The right tools can help you find loads faster, plan a profitable route, and keep your rig in shape. Here are some must-have tools every hotshot driver needs:

• Load boards: A reliable load board is essential for finding work. Platforms like the Truckstop Load Board let you browse thousands of loads in real time, compare rates, and connect with brokers. A good load board maximizes your miles and minimizes downtime.
• Route planning tools: Hotshot drivers need to optimize routes for time and fuel efficiency. Use route planning tools to avoid low bridges, weight restrictions, and traffic delays.
• Safety equipment: Stay Department of Transportation-compliant and ready for emergencies at all times. Keep reflective triangles, wheel chocks, first-aid kits, and fire extinguishers in your truck. Consider investing in a dashcam to protect against accidents.
• Maintenance gear: Breakdowns cost money. Make sure to stay on top of preventive maintenance to keep your vehicle in top shape.

Logistics and requirements for hotshot trucking

Getting the hotshot truck and trailer you need is important. First, there’s some paperwork to take care of before you can start hotshot trucking.

Even if you’re driving a “civilian” truck, you must register it commercially. If your vehicle isn’t licensed properly, you could be fined.

As an owner-operator, you’re in charge of your driving logs. Use these to mark timing, distance, and the weight of your hauls under hours of service (HOS) regulations. If hauling over state lines, stay aware of each state’s regulations and how to document hauls for interstate transport. Using the right electronic logging device (ELD) can help you track your hours and optimize your routes for efficiency.

Maximizing profits in hotshot trucking

Maximizing profits in hotshot trucking comes down to two key factors — funding high-paying loads and keeping expenses low. The right strategy can help you earn more per mile while reducing downtime between jobs.

How much do hotshot drivers make?

Hotshot drivers can earn good money on the road. Depending on your state, the average pay can range from $45,000 to $64,000.

The amount you can make as a hotshot driver depends on several factors:

• The number of hours you work
• The equipment you’re using to haul loads
• The region in which you operate
• The number of loads available
• The types of loads you carry
• Your years of experience
• Fuel prices
• Your rates
• Your costs to do business

How do you find hotshot jobs and loads?

If you want to be a hotshot driver, you can find loads to carry through your network, but most hotshot drivers turn to load boards.

Some new hotshot drivers choose free load boards to avoid a monthly fee. But you get what you pay for. Free load boards aren’t always up to date or reliable, and they likely don’t have enough high-paying loads to keep you busy.

When you search for loads on a load board like Truckstop, you get valuable rate information right at your fingertips and a high volume of well-paying loads. More importantly, all the brokers on Truckstop are vetted and approved before they can post, so you can be confident you’re getting the best loads from the most trustworthy sources.

You can choose to be notified when new loads that meet your requirements are posted by using Load Alert Notifications. This feature helps put you first in line for the best hauls that match your preferences.

Setting the right rates

Finding the right rate is all about what people are willing to pay and what you can afford to take. Do some research on a load board to see what rates are looking like. Try to set a rate that’s lower to start out with — you’re new to the job, and it’s important to put yourself out there and get work. Once you’ve built a network, you can start increasing your rate to match your experience.

While you should start off with lower rates, don’t set them too low — you still have expenses to cover. Make sure to itemize your driving costs to find a rate that keeps you afloat. Tally up your fuel costs, factoring services, maintenance, insurance, and anything else you’re paying for. Once you have all this, you can determine your cost per driving mile. Subtract this rate from your earned-per-mile rate to know how much you can put in the bank.

You can also search for loads that will cover deadheads. For example, if you’re based in Dallas and you’re hauling to New Orleans, it only makes sense to pick up a load in New Orleans and haul it back home. This way, you aren’t wasting time or miles without pay. Finding the right rates takes time, but you’ll get the hang of it with some practice.

Ready to find your next hotshot load?

Hit the road and start booking high-paying hotshot loads with Truckstop’s tools. Our industry-leading load board gives you access to thousands of hotshot loads, real-time rate insights, and trusted brokers — all in one place. Whether you’re new to hotshot trucking or looking to grow your business, Truckstop makes it easy to find the right loads fast.

Truckstop provides the best load board for finding hotshot loads anywhere. Join the thousands of truckers taking control of their trucking business with our solutions!