What is Hot Shot Tracking?

Hot shot trucking is transporting smaller LTL (Less Than Load) loads that are considered time
sensitive within a specific timeframe. Less than loads are usually delivered to a single customer or
location using medium sized duty trucks that pull flatbed trailers. Some hot shot deliveries involve
a short driving distance whereas other deliveries might need to cross the state lines or even travel
across the country.

TIME SENSITIVE CARGO

Hot shot truckers do a great job at making sure small, time sensitive cargo is delivered within a specific timeframe. Many hot shot truckers are freelance owner-operators who own their own vehicles and search for cargo on load boards.

However, there are some company drivers that will take on hot shot jobs, as well. Hot shot truckers normally have the experience delivering different types of loads and the required equipment. They are in search of hot shot loads because the pay rates are decent, especially if a company needs a piece of equipment delivered fast so they do not have a loss in productivity.

IMMEDIATE RESPONSE

It doesn’t matter what you call it, hot shot trucking is about more than just speed. It is about immediate response and reliability.

It is also about providing solutions that help create a truck hauling plan that gets freight to its location faster without compromising safety.

The Requirements of Hot Shot
Transports

the most common one being one-ton pickup trucks classified as “medium duty” by the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA). These types of trucks are usually classified as non-commercial
vehicles, but they can be used for hot shot trucking if the operator has their Operating Authority.
Operating Authority includes a USDOT number (in case a delivery needs to cross state lines),
liability insurance, and proof that the operator owns a business. Trucks used for hot shot trucking
generally fall under Class 3, 4, or 5.

CLASS 3

Under the Class 3 category, medium sized duty trucks have a weight limit of 10,001-14,000 pounds. These include basic heavy duty pickup trucks such as Chevrolet Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 3500, Ford F-350, and the Dodge Ram 3500.

CLASS 4

The weight limit for Class 4 medium duty trucks is 14,001-16,000 pounds. The most common heavy duty pickup trucks used under Class 4 are the Chevrolet Silverado 4500, Ford F-450, and the Dodge Ram 4500. These trucks are heavier, but they are still categorized as non-commercial. If hauling larger hot shot loads is a part of the plan, then investing in a Class 4 truck would be ideal.

CLASS 5

Class 5 medium sized duty trucks carry a weight limit of 16,001-19,500 pounds. The most common used trucks include the Chevrolet Silverado 5500, Ford F-550, and the Dodge Ram 5500. Lighter commercial trucks, such as the Kenworth T150 and the Peterbilt 325, also fall under the Class 5 category.

The Right Kind of Trailer

Hauling hot shot loads requires the use of a trailer which can be a huge decision. The kind of trailer
that is chosen will depend mainly on the type of truck being used and the type of loads that will be
hauled.

BUMPER PULL TRAILER

A bumper pull trailer is usually shorter, does not cost as much, and is easy to use. However, one drawback is that it does not carry as many materials or as much weight. Most of the time the load that is carried on a bumper pull trailer is less than 10,001 pounds. Heavier loads may cause the trailer to sway or lose stability.

GOOSENECK TRAILER

Gooseneck trailers are well known for their stability and have a tighter turn radius than bumper pull trailers. They can generally haul larger, heavier loads but they might require investing in a special hitching system.

TILT DECK TRAILER

Tilt deck trailers are ideal for loading heavy cargo more easily because they tilt at an angle. After the cargo is loaded, the trailer can then revert to being flat for transport. Tilt deck trailers do provide relief of heavy lifting, but they do require maintenance. They work by using a hydraulic system that requires filter and oil changes. The trailer’s moving parts also require oil to be applied so they do not rust.

LOWBOY TRAILER

Lowboy trailers have a low center of gravity, making it perfect for the heaviest loads. These trailers lay flat on the ground when they are disconnected from the truck and can help clear a certain height restriction when a tall load is being transported. One negative aspect to lowboy trailers is that they do not have as much deck space. This means a heavier load can be transported but the amount of material that is hauled will be less.

DOVETAIL TRAILER

Dovetail trailers are ideal for hauling cars or other equipment with wheels. They are affordable and well-known, making it easy to resell when it is no longer needed. One downfall to dovetail trailers is that they hang low on the back of the trailer. This makes it hard to transport anything up a steep incline with it dragging. Dovetails also jut out the back slightly increasing the likelihood of being rear-ended.

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