Starting a Hotshot Service

AtlasTrucks1 · Jun 20, 2007

I'm considering starting a hotshot service. I'd like to haul either Trailers, RVs, or cars. I'll probably get either a Ford F450 or a Dodge 3500. Doeas anyone have any suggestions or helpful advice? (I currently have a construction debris removal service, but I have some back trouble and the heavy lifting can't go on forever. That's why I'm looking at a change.)
Thank You,
Jesse Gambalie
Atlas Trucking
Prompt, Professional Service Is Our Strength
828-273-7066

jrcase · Jun 20, 2007

http://www.123loadboard.com/questions/how_to_start_a_hot_shot_trucking_company.asp

LDB · Jun 20, 2007

On (very) quick glance that appears to be more an advertising ploy for 123loadboard than a true how to do it. Maybe without the very it's good stuff though. As far as the trailer hauling, most of that is one way work so the deadhead is 50% and the maybe adequate sounding rate is cut in half.

Leo Bricker, 73's K5LDB, OOIDA Life Member 677319
Owner, Panther trucks 5508, 5509, 5641
Highway Watch Participant, Truckerbuddy
EO Forum Moderator
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Moot · Jun 20, 2007

There are some hot shot forums on line. One is hotshot.com

I see more and more trailer (RV) haulers going to a class 7 flatbed/car hauler type truck and towing the second trailer. Like Leo said most of the loads are one way.

Crazynuff · Jun 20, 2007

Register here . http://hotshothauling.com/ . A lot of good , reliable info . A medium duty truck with at least a 40' flatbed is highly recommended . DOT watches 1 tons closely . The GCVWR for a 1 ton is around 23,000 . A truck will usually weigh around 8,000 with tools , fuel driver , etc. . Yeah , they easily pull loads with GVW's over 23,000 but you're risking voiding your warranty , liability issues , and major fines if you get caught over 26,000 at a scale without a CDL . Your best bet is to find at least one regular customer and get your own authority . Kind of a catch-22 . You need a truck and authority to get work but buying equipment and paying for authority without a reliable customer base is very risky .