Hotshot trucking is often used for urgent deliveries, usually over short distances. Pickup trucks and trailers are often used to target time-sensitive loads, such as industrial equipment and construction materials. Success comes from having the right setup, making smart choices, and keeping costs under control. We break down the basics of hotshot trucking, licensing options, and proven strategies to build a successful hotshot trucking business here.

Whether you own and run a solo truck or manage a fleet, these tips boost your bottom line.

What Is Hotshot Trucking?

Hotshot trucking hauls smaller, expedited loads that big rigs can’t handle quickly. Heavy-duty pickups are the ideal choice for drivers, whether it’s hauling flatbed or gooseneck trailers. Runs often cover 100-500 miles, focusing on speed over volume.

Businesses choose hotshots for lower costs and flexibility—no need for massive semis or large depots. Operators target industries like energy, construction, and manufacturing.

CDL vs. Non-CDL Hotshot Operations

The type of license you choose affects your hotshot trucking options. If your rig has a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or less, you can use a standard driver’s license. This is a good choice for beginners with a startup budget under $50,000.

A CDL lets you haul loads over 26,001 pounds. With a Class A endorsement, you can pull bigger trailers and carry heavier loads. Insurance costs increase, but your earning potential also increases by up to 20-25% more per load. A CDL allows the movement of heavy freight above the Non-CDL limits, such as industrial machinery.

Tips to Make a Profitable Hotshot Trucking Business

Focus on high-value loads, tight costs, and steady work. Use dispatch services to cut empty miles. Track every expense. These strategies work for solos and fleets alike.

Strategies for Owner-Operators

Solo hotshot drivers control their destiny. Start lean and scale smart.

  • Pick the right rig: Buy a 1-ton dually pickup (F-350/F-450) with a gooseneck trailer. The setup cost could be between $40K and $ 80 K for a 10K-15K payload target. Make sure to test the GVWR.
  • Mastering load boards: Use DAT or Truckstop daily. Expertly filter loads and choose the best that matches your lanes. Bid on urgent freight. Avoid spot market traps below your cost-per-mile.
  • Negotiate aggressively: Contact brokers directly. Highlight your strengths confidently, such as speed and reliability. Build 3-5 repeat shippers for steady 80% utilization.
  • Control deadheads: Plan backhauls and ensure to minimise empty hauling as much as possible. Choose dispatch partners to cut deadmiles; experienced partners can minimise them by 25-40%. Track via apps to hit 90% loaded miles.
  • Track true costs: Log fuel (25-30% of revenue), maintenance ($0.15/mile), insurance ($10K/year).

Strategies for Fleet Companies

You have scaled your hotshot fleet beyond one truck, but now you are managing effectively. Systems drive profits at volume.

  • Hire and retain top drivers: Screen for clean MVRs and hotshot experience. Offer 88-92% linehaul splits. Use safety bonuses to cut turnover 50%.
  • Centralized dispatching: Instead of investing in TMS software like Truckstop or AscendTMS, you should hire full-time dispatchers on a commission-based or salary-based basis. They book 20% more loads and negotiate better rates.
  • Optimize fleet utilization: Run 5-7 day schedules. Rotate trucks for maintenance. GPS tracking spots idle rigs. Aim for 95% uptime across 3+ trucks.
  • Diversify revenue: Target different industries, such as oil and gas, construction, and LTL hotshots. Add power-only services. Partner with brokers for dedicated lanes.
  • Manage overhead smartly: Bulk fuel deals save 10-15¢/gallon. Group insurance drops premiums 20%. Outsource factoring for 1-2% fees. Forecast cash flow monthly to fund growth.

Bottom Wrap: Scale Your Success

Cost control and premium loads drive successin Hotshot trucking. Where owner-operators can enter with a non-CDL easily, build equity, then move on to CDL for bigger paydays. Experienced fleet owners multiply their earnings with planned systems, dispatch muscle, logistics technology, and experienced driver teams. Partner with expert hotshot dispatch services like Kandorlogistics in Texas to slash deadheads and boost rates.