What Is Hotshot Trucking?

If you are searching for light freight quick-shipping options, then you may need to look into hotshot deliveries.

If this is something that you want to know more about, let me tell you what hotshot trucking is.

What is hotshot trucking?

Hotshot trucking is a type of freight-hauling service.

Hotshot trucking is used when the transported freight is light, it needs to be transported on short distance and it can fit in small non-CDL trucks such as box trucks, cargo vans, pickup trucks, etc.

The types of loads shipped by hotshot drivers are construction equipment, agricultural equipment, industrial machinery, etc.

For example, when a company needs a piece of equipment delivered quickly to avoid loss in productivity or to keep up with the project deadlines.

In such a case, late equipment delivery might result in project delays or lost revenue.

How do hotshot truck drivers operate?

Hotshot drivers typically operate super-duty pickups such as Ford F250 and an appropriate trailer.

Generally, hotshot drivers don't need a CDL. The only exception is when the vehicle's gross weight exceeds 26,000 pounds.

For example, on the Tow Piglet youtube channel, this question is answered in detail.

As a business, hotshot truck drivers work for themselves.

That means that most expenses such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, licenses and fees, tolls, etc. are supported by the driver.

Hotshot trucking and expedited trucking difference

Hotshot and expedited trucking are both hauling time-sensitive loads but are not the same.

Hotshots drivers ship smaller loads in smaller trucks of Class 3, 4, or 5 trucks pulling a flatbed or other type of trailer for extra capacity.

Expedited drivers are owner-operators or companies with cargo vans, sprinters, or tractor-trailers that make rush or emergency orders.

Start a hotshot trucking business

If you find that there is enough demand for your services, you may want to scale up by starting a hotshot trucking business.

A hotshot trucking business status provides you with the trust of a trucking company that most customers are more eager to work with individual low weight truck owners.

The benefit of hotshot trucking is that most often you can start a non-CDL business delivery services without worrying of acquiring a commercial driving license and still do business.

Conclusion

Hot shot trucking is a great hauling service that ships smaller loads on small vehicles.