October 1, 2024 | BY Dan Boaz

How to Start a Hotshot Trucking Business: A Comprehensive Guide

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Contents

Today we're diving deep into how to get started in hotshot trucking. If you're looking for a way to enter the trucking industry with lower startup costs and more flexibility, hotshot trucking might be the perfect fit for you. We'll walk you through the key steps to launch your hotshot trucking business, from understanding what it is to finding your first loads.

We’re an expedited freight company that works with hotshot truckers all across North America. We’ve been in business since 2006, close to 20 years and have a team of experienced expeditors who have seen it all. But just so you know we don’t work with businesses that are just starting out, we only work with carriers that have been in business for 3 plus years, have a high FMCSA rating, and the best insurance - you can actually learn all about that here. But everybody has to start somewhere and we want to help you get there. Let's get started!

WHY HOT SHOT TRUCKING?

A career in hot shot trucking could be ideal if you enjoy the freedom of the open road and the flexibility of setting your own schedule. Unlike traditional trucking jobs, hot shot trucking allows you to choose the loads you take and the routes you travel, offering more control over your work-life balance.

It’s a great fit for those who prefer shorter hauls or regional runs, rather than spending weeks away from home. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and likes the challenge of handling urgent, time-sensitive same day delivery jobs, hot shot trucking provides plenty of opportunities to put your skills to the test.

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Requirements

AirFreight.com is a licensed freight broker with an intense focus on time-critical and premium freight shipments. We only allow experienced and dependable carriers to join our network, and we only allow carriers with excellent communication and impeccable honesty to remain in our network.

Minimum 3 Years Active Continuous Authority (MC, DOT)
Carrier Must Have Active Interstate Authority for Property
FMSCA Rated A or B – Carrier Satisfactory Rating
Cargo Insurance Minimum coverage $100,000
General Liability Minimum coverage $1,000,000
Box Truck, TT, Flatbed Carriers Must Have ELD
Carrier Must NOT Have any Active Out of Service Orders
Carrier Must Have a SAFER Operating Status of Active
Carrier Must Accept Our Tracking Requests
Carrier Must Be Available During Active Hot Shots
Driver Must Have IOS or Android Cell Phone
Absolutely No Unauthorized Brokering
No Dispatching Services
Must be Approved VIA Highway.com

Complete Our Onboarding

Low Barrier to Entry

With hot shot trucking, operators can start with a pickup truck and a suitable trailer, rather than investing in a full-sized semi-truck. This significantly reduces the initial costs for equipment and licensing, making it easier for newcomers to enter the field. Additionally, maintenance and fuel costs tend to be lower for hot shot vehicles, leading to potentially higher profit margins.

Flexibility

Drivers have the ability to choose the loads they take and the routes they travel, allowing for greater control over their schedules. This is ideal for those who prefer a better work-life balance, as they can prioritize shorter hauls or regional routes that allow them to return home more frequently. Unlike traditional long-haul trucking, hot shot trucking offers the opportunity to complete jobs quickly and efficiently, often within a day or two.

Truck and Trailers

There are several types of truck and trailer combinations used for hot shot trucking. The trucks are typically a Class 3, 4, or 5 truck, which includes vehicles like the Dodge RAM 2500/3500, Ford F-250/350/450, GMC Sierra 2500/3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500. Many of these trucks have a dual-wheel rear axle to handle the extra weight and provide stability for towing.

Entrepreneurship

Many hot shot truckers operate as owner-operators, meaning they run their own business and can grow their operations at their own pace. The freedom to set rates, negotiate directly with clients, and expand a customer base offers a rewarding level of autonomy that appeals to many individuals who prefer to be their own boss.

High Demand and Growth

Hot shot trucking is in high demand across industries like oil and gas, construction, telecommunications, and manufacturing. With the increasing need for urgent deliveries, drivers and owner-operators find steady opportunities, contributing to job security and the potential for consistent income.

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In the automotive industry it is estimated that one minute of stopped production costs an average of $22,000, with some estimates reaching as high as $50,000 per minute. With such staggeringly high costs at stake, keeping assembly lines operating smoothly is absolutely critical to a company’s bottom line. With many manufacturers building to only a just-in-time production rates, any disruption threatens parts and vehicle inventories. Enter same day air charter service from SameDayAir.com.

When supply chain crises arise, our same day air charters and onboard couriers can rapidly deliver parts to get your production line moving again – on time. Not only do we air charter time sensitive parts, but we can also fly fully assembled vehicles – with sales teams and key personnel - to product launches, rollouts, and press events. With immediate access to air charter aircraft of all types, you’ll hit the ground running.

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Step 1: Assess Your Finances

The first and most crucial step is to evaluate your financial situation. Starting a hotshot trucking business requires capital, and you need to ensure you have enough to cover both startup costs and operating expenses until your business becomes profitable. Here's a breakdown of potential costs:

Truck and trailer purchase or lease
Insurance premiums
Licensing and permit fees
Fuel and maintenance costs
Business registration fees
Equipment and supplies
Working capital to get you through the first several months

Consider creating a detailed budget that accounts for these initial costs. If you find that your savings won’t fully cover the investment, there are options to explore, such as small business loans, personal loans, or even leasing equipment rather than buying it outright. Look into financing options from lenders who specialize in trucking or transportation industries, as they often have programs designed for new hot shot trucking businesses.

Step 2: Choose Your Equipment

Selecting the right equipment is crucial for your success. Let's break this down into two categories: Trucks: You'll need a medium-duty truck, typically falling into Class 3-5. Popular options include:

Ford F-350 or F-450
Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD or 4500HD
RAM 3500 or 4500

When choosing a truck, consider factors like towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Okay let’s talk

Trailers: Common trailer types for hotshot trucking include:
Gooseneck trailers: Offer better stability and higher weight capacity
Flatbed trailers: Versatile for various types of cargo
Dovetail trailers: Good for loading vehicles or equipment with wheels

Consider the types of loads you plan to haul when selecting your trailer.

Step 3: Get Your Licenses and Permits

Navigating the regulatory landscape is a crucial part of starting your hotshot trucking business. While requirements can vary depending on your location and the types of loads you'll be hauling, here are the general licenses and permits you'll need:

A valid driver's license: Depending on the weight of your truck and trailer combination, you may need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
DOT physical and medical card: This certifies you're physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle
A valid driver's license: Depending on the weight of your truck and trailer combination, you may need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
USDOT number: Required for interstate commerce and for vehicles over certain weight limits
Motor Carrier (MC) number: Needed for interstate operations
International Registration Plan (IRP) tag: For operating across state lines
International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) decal: For fuel tax reporting when operating in multiple jurisdictions

Remember, requirements can vary by state, so be sure to check with your local Department of Transportation for specific regulations.

Step 4: Set Up Your Business

Establishing your business properly is key to long-term success. Here are the steps:

Choose a business structure: Most hotshot truckers opt for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) for its flexibility and personal asset protection
Register your business: File the necessary paperwork with your state
Obtain an EIN: This Employer Identification Number is issued by the IRS and acts as a tax ID for your business
Open a business bank account: Keep your personal and business finances separate
Set up an accounting system: Consider using software like QuickBooks to track income and expenses

Open a separate business bank account to manage finances and keep business expenses separate from personal ones. Consider working with an accountant or financial advisor to help with bookkeeping, tax planning, and compliance. Proper financial management will also make it easier to track profits and business growth.

Step 5: Get Insured

Proper insurance coverage is crucial in the trucking industry. You'll need:

Commercial auto liability: Covers damages you may cause to others
Cargo insurance: Protects the freight you're hauling
Physical damage coverage: Protects your truck and trailer
Bobtail insurance: Covers you when driving without a trailer
Occupational accident insurance: Provides coverage similar to workers' compensation

Shop around and compare quotes from different providers specializing in commercial truck insurance.

Step 6: Invest in Essential Equipment

Beyond your truck and trailer, you'll need various equipment to operate safely and efficiently:

Securement gear: Straps, chains, binders, and tarps for securing different types of loads
Safety equipment: Fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, first aid kit
Electronic Logging Device (ELD): Required for most commercial drivers to track hours of service
GPS navigation system: For efficient route planning
Smartphone and laptop: For communication and business management

Step 7: Understand Hours of Service Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's hours of service regulations. These rules limit how long you can drive and when you must take breaks. Compliance is crucial for safety and avoiding penalties.

Daily Driving Limit: For property-carrying drivers, the FMCSA mandates a maximum of 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
14-Hour “Driving Window: Once you start your workday (after a break of at least 10 consecutive hours), you have a 14-hour window in which you can drive up to the 11-hour limit. After this window, you must be off duty for another 10 hours before driving again.
Rest Break Requirement: Within your 14-hour window, you must take a 30-minute break if you’ve driven for eight cumulative hours without at least a 30-minute interruption.
60/70-Hour Duty Limit: Over a period of seven or eight consecutive days, drivers can’t exceed 60 hours of duty within seven days or 70 hours within eight days.

Step 8: Find Loads

Now that you're set up, it's time to find freight to haul. Here are some strategies:

Use Load Boards: Websites like Truckstop.com, DAT, and uShip frequently post hot shot loads that can help you get your first jobs. Many of these boards allow you to filter for hot shot loads specifically, giving you a list of jobs that fit your truck and trailer setup.
Build Relationships with Brokers: Freight brokers can be a valuable source of work, providing you with steady job opportunities. Look for brokers who specialize in hot shot freight or industries like construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing.
Network with Local Businesses: Many small businesses, particularly those in construction, agriculture, and manufacturing, rely on hot shot trucking for last-minute or urgent deliveries.
Consider Leasing On with a Company: If you’re new to the industry, leasing on with an established company can provide a reliable source of work while you build your own client base.

Hot Shot Trucking Industries

Hot shot trucking plays a vital role across a range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to oil and gas, aviation, and telecommunications.

Its ability to provide fast, flexible, and reliable transportation solutions is critical for delivering time-sensitive materials, equipment, and parts that keep businesses running smoothly. Whether it’s shipping machinery to a remote construction site, transporting critical components for production lines, or moving raw materials to energy plants, hot shot trucking offers a solution for urgent freight needs. This specialized service ensures minimal downtime, reduces disruptions, and helps industries meet tight deadlines, making it an indispensable part of modern supply chains.

Automotive

Hot shot trucking has become essential in the automotive industry, particularly as manufacturers and suppliers face increasing demand for rapid delivery of critical components. With the rise of advanced technologies in vehicles, such as sensors, cameras, and microchips, the need for fast and flexible logistics has grown. Hot shot trucking provides a solution by ensuring these parts reach production lines quickly, minimizing delays and keeping assembly processes on schedule.

Aviation & Aerospace

Hot shot trucking plays a critical role in the aviation and aerospace industry, where precision and speed are paramount. Aircraft manufacturers, maintenance providers, and aerospace companies rely on the rapid transportation of vital components, such as jet engines, avionics, and structural parts, to avoid costly delays and downtime. Hot shot trucking ensures that these time-sensitive shipments are delivered promptly, whether to manufacturing facilities or maintenance locations.

Construction

Hot shot trucking is a crucial asset in the construction industry, where timelines are tight and delays can be costly. Construction projects often require the rapid delivery of equipment, tools, and materials to job sites, sometimes in remote or difficult-to-access areas. Hot shot trucking offers a flexible, fast solution for transporting everything from machinery and building materials to specialized components, ensuring that work progresses without interruptions.

Machinery

Hot shot trucking is an essential service for the machinery industry, where the timely delivery of large, heavy, and specialized equipment is critical to maintaining production schedules and minimizing downtime. Manufacturing plants, industrial operations, and construction sites often rely on hot shot trucking to transport machinery components, replacement parts, and fully assembled equipment on short notice. Whether it’s getting a vital machine part to a production facility or delivering an entire piece of equipment to a job site, hot shot trucking ensures that these urgent shipments arrive quickly and safely.

Mining and Metals

Hot shot trucking is a crucial service for the mining and metals industry, where operations often take place in remote locations with limited infrastructure. The industry depends on the rapid and reliable transport of heavy equipment, specialized machinery, and essential materials to keep mines running smoothly and efficiently. Hot shot trucking provides the flexibility to deliver time-sensitive shipments such as replacement parts for machinery, raw materials, or even finished metal products to and from mining sites.

Manufacturing

Hot shot trucking is a vital resource for the manufacturing industry, where maintaining smooth and continuous production processes is essential to meeting tight deadlines and fulfilling customer orders. Manufacturers often face unexpected supply chain disruptions, such as delays in receiving critical components or equipment breakdowns that halt production. Hot shot trucking provides a fast and reliable solution for delivering urgent shipments of parts, raw materials, and machinery, ensuring minimal downtime.

Oil and Gas

Hot shot trucking plays an indispensable role in the oil and gas industry, where operational efficiency and timely deliveries are critical. With drilling rigs and production sites often located in remote and hard-to-reach areas, the industry relies on fast and flexible transportation to deliver essential equipment, tools, and materials. Hot shot trucking ensures that urgent shipments, such as replacement parts for pumps, drilling machinery, or vital supplies, reach their destination quickly, minimizing downtime and preventing costly disruptions.

Telecommunications

Hot shot trucking is a critical service in the telecommunications industry, where the rapid deployment of equipment and infrastructure is essential to maintain and expand networks. With the increasing demand for high-speed connectivity and the constant need for repairs or upgrades to towers, cables, and other communication systems, telecom companies rely on hot shot trucking for the swift transport of vital components.

What truck is the best for hot shot trucking?

The most popular trucks for hot shot trucking are ¾-ton or one-ton pickups, such as the Ford F-250/F-350, Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500, and Ram 2500/3500. These trucks are commonly paired with gooseneck or flatbed trailers to enhance versatility and payload capacity.

These truck and trailer combinations provide the strength and flexibility needed to handle a range of loads, from machinery and building materials to smaller, time-sensitive shipments. Gooseneck trailers are especially popular in hot shot trucking due to their stability, maneuverability, and ability to support heavier loads compared to standard hitch trailers. Flatbed trailers, on the other hand, offer easy loading and unloading for various types of freight, making them ideal for construction materials, large equipment, and other oversized items.

When selecting a truck and trailer setup, it’s also essential to consider the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and payload capacity to ensure compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Many hot shot truckers opt for trucks with dual rear wheels (“dually” models) for added stability, especially when hauling heavy loads over long distances.

What size of vehicle is needed for hot shot trucking?

Hot shot trucking typically utilizes medium-duty trucks ranging from ¾-ton to 1.5-ton capacity, equipped with versatile hitch options such as gooseneck and fifth-wheel hitches. These trucks often pair with load-balancing trailers, allowing them to transport a wide variety of equipment efficiently and safely.

This setup enables hot shot truckers to handle loads of different sizes and weights, making it ideal for industries with time-sensitive delivery needs, such as construction, agriculture, and oil and gas. Load-balancing trailers help evenly distribute weight across the axles, improving stability and fuel efficiency, especially on long hauls. Additionally, many drivers customize their trucks with heavy-duty towing packages, upgraded suspensions, and advanced braking systems to safely manage heavier loads while complying with DOT regulations.

How do hot shot drivers get loads?

Load boards, or freight boards, are online platforms where brokers and shippers post available jobs, allowing drivers to find hot shot loads. These boards typically enable drivers to filter and organize loads by key factors such as weight class, payout, and delivery requirements, helping them select jobs that best match their vehicle capacity and earning goals.

By using load boards, drivers can streamline the process of finding suitable loads, minimizing idle time between jobs and maximizing their profitability. Many load boards also provide additional tools, like real-time tracking, estimated fuel costs, and route optimization features, which further support drivers in managing their schedules efficiently.

Some of the most popular load boards, like Truckstop.com and DAT, offer specialized filters for hot shot loads and allow drivers to set alerts for new listings that match their criteria. Accessing these boards through mobile apps also makes it easy for drivers to stay updated on available loads while on the road, ensuring they never miss valuable opportunities. For hot shot truckers, load boards are an essential resource for building a steady workflow and expanding their client base.

What size trailer is best for hot shot trucking?

A non-CDL hot shot driver should generally opt for a trailer between 30 and 40 feet in length. This size helps ensure that the combined weight of the truck, trailer, and cargo remains below the 26,000-pound limit—the maximum weight allowed before a CDL becomes necessary.

Choosing a trailer within this size range allows non-CDL drivers to take on a variety of loads while staying compliant with DOT regulations. Additionally, a 30-40 foot trailer provides ample space for most hot shot freight, from construction materials to smaller machinery, without exceeding weight restrictions. Many non-CDL hot shot drivers also consider lightweight trailer materials, like aluminum, to further reduce total weight and maximize cargo capacity.

Staying under the 26,000-pound threshold not only keeps operating requirements simple but also allows drivers to avoid certain fees, permits, and compliance checks that come with heavier loads. This approach is ideal for those looking to maintain lower operating costs and increased flexibility as they build experience in hot shot trucking.

Which hot shot loads pay the best?

The highest-paying hotshot loads typically include:

Time-Sensitive Freight: Urgent deliveries, such as critical parts for manufacturing or repair operations, often pay more as clients need them quickly to avoid costly downtime. These loads are ideal for hot shot trucking, where flexibility and rapid response are valued.
Construction Equipment: Heavy machinery like excavators and skid steers often pays well due to sizes and weights.
Oversized Loads: Any cargo that requires special permits or escorts usually commands a premium.
Oil and Gas Equipment: Transporting equipment or parts to remote oil fields, such as pipes, valves, and drilling machinery, can pay well because of the challenging locations and the industry’s high demand for reliable, quick deliveries.
High-Value Items:Loads with valuable equipment or materials—such as specialized electronics or medical devices—often come with increased pay due to the need for extra care and secure handling during transport

Focusing on these types of loads can increase profitability for hot shot drivers, especially when paired with the flexibility to take on last-minute or hard-to-access jobs that many standard carriers may not offer.

WHAT IS HOT SHOT TRUCKING? AKA HOTSHOT TRUCKING

Modern business is all about strict timelines. Whether your field is manufacturing, extraction, retail, or research and development, your operations are bound to rely on activities that operate in tandem. The most minor of supply shortages can throw these activities off, potentially costing you thousands of dollars just for a few hours' delay. Success thus hinges on your ability to right the ship as quickly as possible after a supply shortage arises.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOT SHOT TRUCKING

Industries We Serve

Modern day hot shot trucking provides the speed and exclusivity you need to meet the most demanding and time-sensitive shipping requirements. We use every resource, avenue, and channel available to ship your freight by ground or air. Designed specifically to address supply and distribution problems that arise without warning, hotshot trucking tactics involve coordinating a network of carriers in a variety of locations. By calling on the vehicles closest to your supply or distribution points, hotshot brokers can fill any sudden gaps in your supply network almost as soon as they happen. This minimizes the disruption to your business and allows you to quickly return to ordinary operations, weathering the storm without skipping a beat.

Automotive

The automotive supply chain already has significant challenges. Don’t let malfunctioning equipment stop the production line. Step on the gas with HotShotTrucking.com’s suite of services that will get you back in the fast lane. With HotShotTrucking.com, companies are devising shipping strategies to swiftly deliver critical parts and equipment — whether it's ground expedite service with sprinter vans, box trucks and 53-foot tractor trailers or air freight and air cargo.

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Aviation & Aerospace

Every moment a commercial airliner sits on the ground, it costs an airline money. Expedited freight services by HotShotTrucking.com can get you back in the air with prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America. We are equipped with the expertise to navigate the complexities of shipping jet engines and other types of loads, and our network of hot shot drivers has extensive experience transporting aviation assets.

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Construction

One shipping delay can snowball and cause delays throughout your entire project. You need an experienced 3PL provider who understands the construction industry and has the logistical reach to deliver your freight on time, anywhere. That 3PL partner is HotShotTrucking.com. Whether in the air or on the ground via truck and trailer, we can connect companies to expedited freight services for the prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America.

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Mining & Metals

From cranes to chemicals to excavators to conveyor belts, HotShotTrucking.com has the experience and industry know-how required for shipping sensitive, oversized, and hazardous equipment. Third-party hot shot trucking and logistics providers such as HotShotTrucking.com specialize in devising and implementing innovative shipping solutions, ensuring mines can swiftly return to operation. We’ll pick up your shipment, deliver it to the airport and receive it at the other end – providing hand-carried service as necessary or required.

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Manufacturing

Every moment a manufacturing facility or factory sits idle costs a company money because of the high costs involved. With many manufacturers building to only just-in-time production rates, any disruption threatens parts and vehicle inventories. This is where the speed and expertise of freight services from HotShotTrucking.com can make a difference throughout the entire manufacturing supply chain. We do all the logistical legwork to find the optimal solution for your job, whether it's an exclusive air charter or expedited ground shipping.

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Telecommunications

From servers to cell towers, information, voice, and data must flow to keep businesses, production, and the public online and connected. When equipment goes dark, depend on HotShotTrucking.com to get your systems flashing green again. This is where the speed and experience of trucking and freight services from HotShotTrucking.com can help. Our hot shot truck network excels at the prompt delivery of parts and equipment throughout North America.

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Oil & Gas

The oil and gas industry faces challenging conditions in offshore and onshore oil rigs, often in remote locations with limited infrastructure. Don’t let oil pumps or pipelines sit idle waiting for equipment. By having the right plans, parts, people, and logistics partner like HotShotTrucking.com, you can effectively mitigate plant or pump downtime, unscheduled disruptions, and equipment failures.

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