What is Hot Shot Trucking?
Need something shipped fast, but don’t need a full truckload? Hot shot trucking services are your go-to solution for urgent, smaller freight shipments. Whether it’s equipment for a job site, a rush order for a customer, or a time-sensitive delivery that just can’t wait. Hot shot trucking gets it done quickly and reliably.
FreightCenter Services That Support Hot Shot Trucking:
Truckload Freight Flatbed Trucking Heavy Haul
FreightCenter Services That Support Hot Shot Trucking:
Truckload Freight Services Flatbed Freight Shipping Services Heavy Haul Shipping: Oversized Freight Transport Made EasyHot shot trucking is a great option when time is tight and the shipment isn’t big enough to need a full truckload. If you’ve got a smaller load that needs to get somewhere fast. Whether it’s a last-minute part for a job site, a critical delivery for a customer, or just something that can’t sit around waiting for a standard freight schedule, hot shot shipping might be exactly what you need.
At FreightCenter, we offer reliable hot shot shipping services through a network of trusted carriers who specialize in these kinds of quick-turn deliveries. Over the years, we’ve handled thousands of time-sensitive shipments, so we know what’s at stake when something has to move fast.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
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- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
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What is Hot Shot Trucking?
Hot shot trucking is different from your typical freight run. Instead of a big rig hauling a full trailer across the country, hot shot drivers use medium-duty pickup trucks and flatbed trailers. They’re nimble, efficient, and often able to get your shipment delivered faster than traditional options. That kind of flexibility makes a big difference when deadlines are tight.
If you’re a business owner or logistics manager looking for a way to move small freight quickly without the cost of a full truckload, hot shot trucking might be the answer. And when you work with us, you’re not just getting a shipping service, you’re getting a partner who understands the ins and outs of expedited freight. We’ll help you find the right carrier, map out the best route, and make sure your shipment gets where it needs to go, on time.
The Real-World Advantages of Hot Shot Trucking for Shippers and Carriers
Hot shot trucking fills a unique space in the freight world, and both shippers and carriers have a lot to gain from it. It’s not just about moving small loads quickly. It’s about doing it in a way that makes sense for the job, the budget, and the timeline.
Let’s break it down a bit.
Advantages for Shippers:
If you’re a shipper, hot shot trucking can be a lifesaver, especially when you’re up against the clock. Maybe you’ve got a last-minute delivery, or maybe the freight isn’t big enough to justify a full truckload. Either way, Hot Shot Services offers a smart alternative.
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Speed When You Need It Most
Time is often the deciding factor. Hot shot trucking cuts down on delays because the freight goes straight from point A to point B—no terminal stops, no unnecessary transfers. That direct route means your shipment gets there faster. -
More Affordable for Smaller Loads
Why pay for space you don’t need? Hot shot trucking is often more cost-effective for smaller shipments that don’t require a full-size rig. You get the service you need without the overhead of unused trailer space. -
Built-In Flexibility
Shipping needs don’t always follow a perfect schedule. Hot shot services allow you to move freight as needed without locking into long-term contracts. That flexibility is especially helpful when dealing with changing project demands or one-off shipments. -
Lower Inventory Holding Costs
With faster transit times, you can keep less inventory on hand. That translates to less money tied up in storage and fewer worries about overstocking or running out of stock altogether. -
Tailored to the Job
Hot shot carriers tend to offer more personalized service. Need help with special handling or unusual delivery conditions? These drivers are used to adapting and finding practical solutions. -
Consistent and Attentive Service
Many hot shot carriers are owner-operators. That means the person picking up your freight is the same one delivering it, and they’ve got a vested interest in doing the job right.
Advantages for Carriers:
Now, if you’re a carrier, especially an independent owner-operator, hot shot trucking can open up a lot of opportunities. It’s fast-paced, varied, and comes with a good balance of independence and income potential.
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Faster Trips, More Loads
Since hot shot deliveries are often short- or mid-range, you can complete more jobs in less time. That kind of quick turnaround can add up to better earnings over the course of a week. -
Diverse Types of Freight
You’re not hauling the same thing every day. From generators and equipment to lumber and machinery parts, hot shot drivers see a wide variety of cargo, which can keep things interesting. -
Lower Upfront Costs
A pickup truck and a flatbed trailer are a lot more affordable than a full tractor-trailer setup. That means it’s easier to get into the game or expand your fleet without taking on huge debt. -
Work When and Where You Want
Hot shot drivers often have more say over their schedule. You can choose which routes to run, what loads to take, and how far you want to go. It’s a flexible model that puts you in the driver’s seat—literally. -
Niche Market Access
Specialized industries like oil and gas, farming, and construction often rely on hot shot trucking. If you’ve got the right setup and experience, you can carve out a steady stream of work in these sectors. -
Better Rates for Fast Service
Time-sensitive shipments tend to come with higher payouts. When every hour counts, businesses are willing to pay for speed—and that can mean better margins for you. -
Quicker Payments
Compared to larger carriers with long billing cycles, hot shot carriers often get paid faster. That helps with cash flow and keeps your operation running smoothly. -
Lower Day-to-Day Operating Costs
Smaller rigs mean less fuel, cheaper maintenance, and fewer overhead costs overall. That can help keep your business profitable even when rates fluctuate.
Hot shot trucking isn’t just a workaround for urgent loads; it’s a practical solution that benefits everyone involved. Shippers get speed, savings, and flexibility. Carriers get autonomy, faster turnaround, and access to steady work in specialized markets.
Whether you’re trying to move a critical piece of equipment or build a business behind the wheel, hot shot trucking makes a lot of sense when done right.
Types of Trucks and Trailers Used in Hot Shot Trucking
Hot shot trucking doesn’t rely on massive semis or full-sized rigs. Instead, it’s all about flexibility, and that starts with the kind of vehicles used. Most hot shot truckers hit the road in pickup trucks or medium-duty trucks, often outfitted with specialized towing setups like gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitches. These setups give them the pulling power they need without the bulk of a full tractor-trailer.
Hot shot trucking often begins with pickup trucks, which are versatile and readily available. These trucks can haul trailers, flatbeds, or gooseneck trailers to transport smaller loads quickly.
Flatbeds are commonly used for hot shot trucking, offering an open and versatile cargo space. They come in various sizes, typically 20 to 40 feet long, and can accommodate many cargo types.
Gooseneck trailers are often attached to pickup trucks for hot shot trucking. They provide stability and can carry heavier loads compared to conventional hitch trailers.
Some hot shot carriers use box trucks or straight trucks, especially for loads that require protection from the elements or security. These trucks vary in size but are generally smaller than tractor-trailers.
The cabin of hot shot trucks can vary, with some equipped with sleeper berths for longer hauls and overnight stays. However, many hot shot truckers opt for crew or extended cabs to accommodate additional passengers or equipment.
Heavy-duty pickup trucks like the Ford F-450 and F-550 are commonly used for hot shot trucking due to their towing capacity and payload capabilities.
Depending on the cargo, hot shot trucking may involve specialized equipment such as temperature-controlled trailers for perishable goods or trailers with ramps for easy loading and unloading.
Many hot shot trucks have dual wheels (dual rear wheels) for added stability and increased weight-carrying capacity.
Top 3 Real-World Challenges in Hot Shot Trucking
Hot shot trucking can be a great way to stay flexible and earn solid money, especially if you like the independence of running your own operation. But like anything in the freight world, it comes with its share of challenges. Let’s break down the three big ones that most carriers run into sooner or later.
1. High Competition
Let’s be honest, it’s a crowded field. Hot shot trucking has a relatively low barrier to entry compared to full-size trucking, so more and more drivers are getting into it. That means when you’re trying to pick up loads, especially the good-paying ones, you’re often bidding against a dozen other drivers who are just as ready to roll.
If you’re just starting out, that can be frustrating. You might find yourself undercutting your own rates just to stay moving, which isn’t sustainable in the long run. The key is building a strong reputation and network so that brokers and shippers come back to you when they need something hauled fast. That takes time, consistent service, and a whole lot of hustle.
2. Unpredictable Demand
Hot shot work tends to be feast or famine. Some weeks, your phone won’t stop ringing. Other times, it’s quiet, sometimes too quiet. That kind of inconsistency can make planning difficult, especially if you’re counting on a steady income or trying to scale up your operation.
Many successful drivers learn to adapt. They’ll branch out into different types of loads or keep a few fallback gigs lined up for the slow periods. Others use the downtime to maintain their equipment or reset after long stretches on the road. Either way, flexibility is a big part of surviving the dry spells.
3. Time Pressure
Hot shot trucking is built around speed. That’s part of the appeal, but it also brings pressure. You’re not just expected to pick up and deliver, you’re expected to do it now. And sometimes, that urgency can turn into stress, especially if you’re dealing with traffic, mechanical issues, or delays at the pickup or drop-off point.
Staying calm under pressure is a skill in itself. It’s about good planning, smart routing, and knowing when to say no to a load that’s just not realistic. Meeting tight deadlines is part of the job, but so is knowing how to do it safely and without burning yourself out.
3 Smart Strategies to Keep Your Hot Shot Operation Running Strong
Here are three real-world strategies that can make a difference.
1. Diversify What You Haul and Who You Haul For
If there’s one thing hot shot drivers learn early on, it’s that the work doesn’t always come in steady. Some weeks are packed, others are bone-dry. One way to deal with that is by expanding the kinds of freight you’re willing to haul. Maybe that means moving beyond construction materials into light machinery, palletized goods, or agricultural equipment. Whatever fits your rig and makes sense for your skillset.
At the same time, it’s smart to build relationships with a variety of brokers and direct customers. If one market slows down, another might still be going strong. The more flexible you are, the more likely you’ll stay busy.
2. Make Routing and Fuel Efficiency a Daily Priority
Every mile matters, especially when you’re working with tight margins. Empty miles and inefficient routes eat into your profits fast. That’s why route planning tools and GPS tracking aren’t just for big fleets. Even one-person operations benefit from using apps that help you avoid deadhead runs and match you with backhauls.
Also, simple things like reducing idling, sticking to speed limits, and keeping up with basic maintenance can stretch your fuel and prevent costly breakdowns. It’s not glamorous, but it adds up.
3. Build Strong, Repeat Relationships
The difference between constantly chasing the next load and having work come to you often boils down to relationships. Whether you’re working with a broker, dispatcher, or direct shipper, communication and reliability go a long way. Answer the phone. Show up on time. Keep people in the loop if something changes. Those small habits are what turn one-time loads into repeat business.
Over time, those strong connections can lead to steadier work, better rates, and fewer headaches. In hot shot trucking, trust is one of your most valuable tools.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
FreightCenter Your Trusted Hot Shot Trucking Provider
Hot shot trucking might not grab headlines like cross-country freight or ocean shipping, but it plays a crucial role in keeping supply chains moving, especially when time is short. At its core, hot shot trucking is all about getting smaller loads from point A to point B as quickly and efficiently as possible. It’s built for those jobs that just can’t wait. Whether it’s equipment for a stalled job site, a critical part for a machine on the fritz, or anything else that needs to move now, not later.
If you’re a shipper looking for options, hot shot trucking can be a smart, cost-effective way to keep your projects on track or your customers satisfied. You don’t need to move a mountain, just move it fast.
At FreightCenter, we’ve worked alongside businesses of all sizes to help move urgent shipments when the clock’s ticking. We’re proud to offer hot shot trucking services that put speed and reliability front and center, without cutting corners. Our team understands the urgency, the routing, and the equipment required to get the job done right. If you need help figuring out your best shipping option, give us a call at 800-716-7608, or get a quick, no-obligation quote online. We’re here when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Shot Trucking Services
Q. What is hot shot trucking?
Hot shot trucking uses smaller, faster trucks to deliver time-sensitive or smaller freight loads. Ideal for urgent shipments that don’t require a full-size tractor-trailer.
Q. When should I use hot shot trucking services?
Use hot shot trucking when you need urgent delivery, last-minute freight transport, or small loads moved quickly without waiting for traditional freight schedules.
Q. How much does hot shot trucking cost?
Rates range from $250 to $2,500+, depending on weight, distance, urgency, and trailer type. FreightCenter offers instant quotes to help you compare carriers.
Q. What size trailer is best for non-CDL Hotshot?
The trailer size can vary for non-CDL hotshot trucking, but it’s essential to stay within your local regulations’ weight and length limits. Standard trailer sizes for non-CDL hotshot operations include 20 to 40-foot flatbed or gooseneck trailers. The best size depends on the type of cargo you plan to transport and the regulations in your area, but it is typically between 30 and 40 feet.
Q. What is the heaviest you can haul without a CDL?
The weight you can haul without a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) varies by state and country. In the United States, for instance, you can typically operate a non-CDL vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of under 26,001 pounds. However, these regulations can change, so you must check with your local Department of Transportation (DOT) for the most up-to-date weight limits.
Q. What is the most common Hotshot trailer?
The most common hotshot trailers are typically flatbed trailers. These trailers offer versatility and can accommodate a wide range of cargo types. Additionally, gooseneck trailers are often used in hotshot trucking for their stability and ability to carry heavier loads compared to conventional hitch trailers.
Q. How wide is a 40ft Hotshot trailer?
A standard 40-foot hotshot trailer typically has a width of 8.5 feet, which is the standard width for most trailers used in trucking. This width allows for safe and legal cargo transport while complying with road regulations.
Q. How fast is hot shot freight delivery?
Many hot shot shipments can be delivered same-day or next-day, especially for regional routes under 500 miles. Cross-country runs typically take 2–3 days.
Q. What types of freight can I ship with hot shot trucking?
Common shipments include construction equipment, pallets, parts, generators, small machinery, and time-sensitive commercial goods.
Q. Is hot shot trucking available nationwide?
Yes. FreightCenter connects you with a nationwide network of hot shot carriers offering regional and long-distance freight coverage.
Q. Do I need to crate or palletize my freight for hot shot shipping?
While not always required, properly securing, palletizing, or crating your freight helps ensure safe transport and prevents load shifting.
Q. Is hot shot trucking better than LTL for small freight?
It depends on timing. LTL is cost-effective but may take longer. Hot shot is faster and more direct, especially for urgent or rural deliveries.
Q. Is freight insurance available for hot shot shipments?
Absolutely. FreightCenter offers optional freight insurance to protect your shipment in transit, especially for high-value or sensitive loads.
Q. Do hot shot services include tracking?
Yes. Shipments booked through FreightCenter come with real-time tracking and support from pickup to delivery.
Q. Why choose FreightCenter for hot shot trucking services?
FreightCenter gives you access to 50+ carriers, custom quotes, expert support, and real-time tracking—making hot shot shipping fast, easy, and reliable.
3 Facts About Hot Shot Trucking
Hot Shot Trucking Originated in the Oilfields
Hot shot trucking started in Texas oilfields, where pickup trucks were used to deliver critical parts and tools to remote rigs fast. Today, it’s expanded across industries that demand speed and flexibility.
Many Hot Shot Deliveries Happen Same-Day
Because hot shot drivers aren’t tied to terminal schedules like LTL carriers, many deliveries happen the same day they’re booked, especially on regional routes under 500 miles.
It’s a Top Choice for Time-Sensitive Construction Freight
From forgotten tools to emergency site equipment, hot shot trucking is a go-to for contractors who need materials delivered before the crew hits downtime, saving both time and labor costs.
