There are instances when time-sensitive loads need to be expedited quickly. Often, these loads are LTL (less than truckload), and are needed as soon as possible. This is where hot shot truck drivers come into play.Hot shot truck drivers haul these time-sensitive loads within the desired time frame, delivering them to a specific location/customer. Hauling is usually performed using a medium-duty Class 3, 4, or 5 truck pulling freight with a flatbed trailer.
Sometimes, hot shot drivers need to only travel a short distance, whereas other jobs may require them to cross state lines. Your requirements as a hot shot truck driver depend on the job you are called to do.
The Process
Again, as a hot shot driver, you are usually operating within some time constraints. Most hot shot drivers are owner-operators, but company drivers undertake hot shot work as well. Your load is usually small enough not to require an entire tractor-trailer. Drivers instead, tend to drive medium-duty pickup trucks, most commonly, Class 3, 4, or 5. These non-commercial vehicles typically do not require hot shot drivers to possess a CDL unless the loads they haul exceed 10,000 pounds. However, you will be required to have a CDL if your cargo is above the established weight limit, or if you will be crossing state lines.
As a hot shot driver, you will deliver loads to customers in a timely manner. Deliveries can consist of farm or construction equipment, loads and machinery for oil fields, as well as small rigs, and other forms of heavy-duty equipment.Often, these deliveries are needed to haul necessary machinery and equipment to a project site to avoid financial setbacks. You should ideally be ready to undertake a job at a moment’s notice, and deliver the material safely and efficiently. Unless working under someone, hot shot trucking offers the freedom to commit to projects at your own will.
As a driver, you can expect to load and unload your cargo, record your mileage, maintain your vehicle and any trailers you operate, communicate with clients, find driving jobs, provide clients with invoices, and ensure you have the proper licensing for the jobs you take.
The Pay
Hot shot trucking appeals to drivers because of its relatively low start up costs and flexibility with earnings. Drivers usually charge rate-per-mile (RPM), and generally get the chance to determine what that price point is. Do your research to figure out what your competitors are charging, so you can operate within a relatively similar range. It is also common for your earnings to depend on the type of job you are performing, the distance you are traveling, time frame you are operating in, and the equipment you are handling.
You should also take into consideration (especially as an owner-operator) your operational expenses such as fuel, your truck/trailer’s mileage per gallon, and maintenance costs, to ensure your business is profitable.
Hot Shot Trucker Requirements
To reiterate, if your vehicle is not over 10,000 pounds and you are not crossing state lines, you generally will not need a CDL as a hot shot driver. However, there are exceptions, and certain standards you must meet. You may also need some other driving experience before you can become a hot shot trucker.
Requirements for Hot Shot Truckers Also Include:
A valid driver’s license
- A clean driving record with a valid driver’s license will be needed. While you are not normally required to have your CDL for hot shot trucking, it may make you marketable for more jobs across state lines.
The correct insurance
- Insurance differs depending on the type of hot shot trucking you are doing. You will need, at least, insurance for your vehicle, the cargo you are carrying, and liability insurance.
A registered USDOT/MC number
- After receiving insurance, you can register for your USDOT and/or an MC number. Your USDOT number is unique to your hot shot company and serves to identify your operations. An MC number is a unique identifier for your vehicle if you are hauling cargo across state lines.
The correct equipment
- Ensure you’re operating with the correct equipment to make your operations as safe and successful as possible. This ranges from choosing the right truck, to the correct trailer, down to chains, straps, and bungees.
Meeting health requirements
- As is the case for all truck drivers, hot shot trucking has certain health requirements drivers must meet to comply with federal regulations. This also may include drug testing.
Class 3, Class 4, and Class 5 Vehicles
Class 3 Vehicles
- These vehicles are great for hauling lighter loads across shorter distances. Class 3 vehicles are not only used by hot shot drivers, but also by last mile delivery drivers, and other independent contractors.
Class 4 Vehicles
- If you are hauling more heavy-duty freight, you will likely want to invest in a class 4 vehicle. Some box trucks also fall into the category of Class 4.
Class 5 Vehicle
- If you are hauling extremely heavy equipment, you may be required to work with a class 5 vehicle. While some trucks like the Silverado 4500, and the Ford F-550 fall into this category, many Class 5 vehicles are considered commercial motor vehicles.
Become a Hot Shot Driver Today!
Hot shot driving can be a fun and exciting career path, and a nice way to earn some money with a break from typical tractor-trailer life. Whether you decide to drive hot shot as an owner-operator, a carrier, or for some extra side cash, you will open the door to some fun and exciting driving opportunities.
Explore trucking jobs near you today!
