Hot shot trucking is unique within the trucking industry. Hot shot drivers are not required to have CDLs and do not drive semi trucks. Hot shot trucking can be a great stepping stone to become a professional truck driver.
What is Hot Shot Trucking?
Hot shot truckers drive heavy-duty pickup trucks and haul smaller loads for various clients. Many companies and individuals who do not have a whole semi truck worth of items to ship use hot shot truckers for their competitive prices. It’s a great division of the trucking industry to take on if you’re looking to create your own hours and do not possess a CDL. Here are the most important requirements to becoming a hot shot trucker.
What are the Requirements to be a Hot Shot Trucker?
Have a valid driver’s license
- A valid, standard driver’s license is the cornerstone to becoming a hot shot trucker. You are not required to hold a CDL in most states, though it may still be a good idea to have one, as it allows you to haul larger loads. If you haul more than 10,001 lbs or drive between state lines, you are required to have a CDL.
Be in good physical shape
- Anyone who drives commercially needs to pass a physical exam every 2 years and have a DOT medical card. To do this, you will have to go through the FMCSA approved list of medical examiners and get a check-up.
Be willing to become a business owner
- You will more than likely need to register as a business before proceeding to get the right kind of insurance and register with the FMCSA. There are different types of business you can run, but it’s best to check with a lawyer and other financial advisors to see what fits your needs.
Get the right kind of insurance
- Before you can proceed, you must have the right kind of commercial auto insurance. You will need different insurance coverage based on how you plan to run your business. At a minimum, you will need to get insurance for the cargo, your vehicle, and liability insurance.
Register for a USDOT number and/or an MC number
- Once you are a registered business and have the right insurance, you can register yourself for a USDOT number and an MC number. A USDOT number is a unique number that is assigned to your business to track inspections, collision information, and compliance. An MC number is also called Authority of Operate, and allows you to operate your business across state lines.
Have the right equipment
- The right truck and trailer are essential to hot shot truckers. Some drivers use trucks like the Ford F-350 Super Duty or Ram 3500, while others may need a larger truck. You also need a suitable trailer like a gooseneck trailer or bumper pull.
Be ambitious
- Unlike company truck drivers, hot shot truckers need to be proactive and find their own loads to haul. This can be challenging at times: work may not always be steady. You are, however, able to make your own hours and keep all the profits from the loads you deliver. As the owner of your own company, you are in charge of everything. This can be a benefit or a drawback depending on what kind of work you enjoy.
Hot shot trucking can be a great way to get into trucking if you’re an entrepreneurial person. But it's ok if hot shot trucking isn’t for you, read more about what it’s like to be an entry-level CDL-A truck driver here.