What size truck do I need for hotshot trucking?

Since hot shot trucking involves the transportation of time-sensitive loads, you're going to need a capable truck to get the job done. Hot shot loads typically require the use of a one-ton pickup truck, such as the Ford Super-Duty F-350 or Ram 3500.

What kind of truck is best for hotshot trucking?

Can you hotshot with 2500?

REASON #3: No limitations on hotshot loads

If you have a CDL, you can haul over that 26,000 GVWR limit. But let us take this a step further. If you use a 2500 truck with a GVWR of 10,000 lbs and a tandem axle single wheel with 14,000 lbs GVWR, then the combination is rated and licensed for 24,000 lbs.

Is hotshot trucking 2021 worth it?

So, technically, a hotshot is still worth it. As long as you come in with the right frame of mind and your expectations are reasonable and you have a little bit more money in your nest egg, then hot shot might be worth it. You gain a ton of experience that you can use in the trucking industry as a whole.

How much weight can a 40 ft hotshot carry?

Freight Capacity Restrictions: Hotshot trailers usually max out at 40 feet in length, which means they are limited in the weight they can legally carry – 16,500 lbs. Shippers who have cargo that exceeds this weight need to understand that – no matter the size of the load – hotshots are no longer an option for delivery.

What is the best truck for hotshot

How do you find hotshot loads?

How do I start Hot Shot hauling?

Can you hotshot with an older truck?

If your truck is older than seven years — I mean give or take a few years — it's probably too old to take the daily abuses of hotshot trucking. It is a fact that an older truck is less capable than a brand-new truck.

How long will a hotshot truck last?

The average hotshotter or trucker does 10,000 miles on the low end. Obviously, if you do more miles, it's going to cost you less. But you can only do so many miles legally. You can't plan on getting 60 miles an hour as an average mile per hour.

How do you charge hotshot loads?

To get a rough cost per mile, estimate the average fuel price per gallon you expect to pay and divide it by your average fuel mileage when hauling a load. For example, if fuel is $2.50 per gallon in your area, and you get 15 miles per gallon, $2.50 divided by 15 is approximately $0.17 per mile.

Can you use a 3/4 ton truck for hotshot?

Hotshot trucking is a passion I've pursued, followed and been active in for years. I'll remind you right up front, I've delivered hotshot loads with both single and dual rear wheeled pickups, from heavy 3/4 tons to dual rear wheeled 1 tons, made by all the big three. I've run them all and pushed them harder than most.

What size trailer do I need for hot shot?

By far the most common length for gooseneck hot shot trailers is 40 feet. On a PJ Gooseneck this gives you a total length of 49 feet. Longer trailers might give you the ability to haul more freight, but can be restrictive depending on the state laws.

Is it worth doing hot shot?

Hotshot truckers have the potential to make higher pay rates than they would at a traditional trucking job. A hotshot trucker who properly manages their work schedule and lives in a lucrative location could earn the most money in these types of positions.

Do you need a 4x4 to hotshot?

Answer: It depends on you. 2WD is best if you're going to run on the highway most of the time. Since it's lighter, it would be more fuel-efficient for you. But if you'll be traveling a lot to the Northern States or in Canada where snow or off-road conditions are present, get a 4WD.

Why do hotshots fail?

They fail (or are not as successful) because they are not willing to stay out on the road for several weeks at a time. They fail when they consistently pick cheap freight. Finally, they fail because they don't know what's coming in and what's going out. Don't fall into these pitfalls and you'll be successful.

How many miles can a hotshot driver drive in a day?

Due to government regulations, at the absolute peak, a driver can drive 11 hours in a 24-hour period. If they happened to travel 65 miles per hour (mph) the whole time, that's 715 miles maximum. Now let's be realistic.

Do you need a new truck for hotshot?

Who can be a “hotshot?” Almost anybody with access to a capable pickup truck, say a Ford F250 (or larger) or equivalent, and an appropriate trailer. Trailers are typically goose-neck 40-ft flatbeds or a three car triangle carrier to specialize in automotive transport.

Where can I find loads for pickup trucks?

1. Get Jobs From Local Construction Companies. One of the most popular ways to get loads for your pickup truck is by servicing the construction industry. Pickup trucks are perfect for the task because they are durable, can carry heavy loads, and have ample space in their bed to haul stuff to and from construction sites ...

Is hotshot trucking in demand?

Another common complaint about hot shot trucks is the competition — since hot shot drivers are in high demand, and brokers need freight delivered ASAP, you'll always be competing with other hot shot drivers for freight. Starting any business is a risk, and hot shot trucking is no exception.

How much does it cost to start a hot shot trucking business?

All told, hot shot trucking start up costs can easily reach the $15,000-30,000 range, but this will vary based on personal circumstances. If you already own a truck, for example, then you just need a trailer and the various legal fees.

What hot shot loads pay the most?

The highest rates go to Class 500 freight, which is lighter but takes up a lot of space. In the past, hot shot loads meant freight that needed to be delivered quickly and could fit on a removable gooseneck or in a box truck.

What load board is best for hotshot?

We recommend using the DAT TruckersEdge load board because it gives you access to the largest freight network in the nation. Plus, with data tools and insights, DAT helps you get the best rates for your loads.

How can I get free hotshot loads?

How much weight can a hotshot haul?

1. Freight Capacity Restrictions. Hot shot trailers can only legally haul 16,500 pounds of freight on their deck and measure 40 feet at their lengthiest.