If you own a pickup truck, cargo van, or trailer, you have the potential to turn it into a money-making machine through hotshot trucking. This type of trucking involves hauling small, time-sensitive loads for businesses and individuals, often without the need for a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
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What is Hotshot Trucking?
Hotshot trucking is a form of freight transport where smaller loads are delivered on-demand, typically using medium-duty trucks, vans, or trailers. Unlike traditional trucking, hotshot drivers don’t need an 18-wheeler—just a reliable vehicle and the right approach to finding gigs.
Why Start a Hotshot Trucking Business?
- Low Startup Costs: You can start with equipment you already own.
- High Demand: Businesses need fast deliveries for urgent or oversized items.
- Flexible Schedule: You choose when and where to work.
- No CDL Required (in Many Cases): If your truck and load stay under weight limits, you may not need a commercial license.
Steps to Make Money with Hotshot Trucking
1. Get the Right Equipment
To start, you’ll need:
- A reliable vehicle – A pickup truck, cargo van, or a heavy-duty dually truck works best.
- A trailer (optional) – A gooseneck, flatbed, or enclosed trailer allows you to haul larger loads.
- Tie-down straps and tarps – Essential for securing cargo safely.
2. Get Proper Licensing and Insurance
Depending on the weight of your vehicle and cargo, you may need:
- A DOT Number if operating across state lines.
- A Motor Carrier (MC) Number for interstate hauling.
- Cargo insurance to protect the goods you transport. You check with your car insurance to see if they provide this extra option.
Check your local DMV or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to determine the exact requirements.
3. Find Hotshot Trucking Loads
To get jobs, you can use:
- Load Boards – Websites like the ones shown below list available hauls.
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DAT Load Board: Offers a vast network with over 235 million loads posted annually, providing tools to find and secure hotshot loads that match your equipment and preferred routes.
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Truckstop Load Board: Provides a comprehensive platform to find hotshot loads, featuring tools like Book It Now for instant load booking and detailed broker information to ensure profitable hauls.
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123Loadboard: An industry leader offering an easy-to-use platform to find hotshot loads, with features like load searching, truck posting, and rate check tools to maximize your earnings.
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FR8Star: Connects carriers with shippers directly, providing a user-friendly load board to find suitable hotshot loads, complete with tools to communicate and bid confidently.
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- Freight Brokers – These middlemen connect you with businesses needing transportation.
- Local Businesses – Companies in construction, farming, and manufacturing often need deliveries.
- Facebook Groups & Craigslist – Many shippers post urgent hauling requests here.
4. Set Competitive Rates
Pricing depends on:
- Distance – Long-haul loads pay more, but local jobs are quicker.
- Cargo Weight & Size – Heavier and oversized loads require more effort.
- Urgency – Last-minute deliveries can bring premium rates.
Hotshot truckers typically charge per mile (around $1.50–$3 per mile) or a flat fee per load.
5. Maximize Your Earnings
- Work with multiple platforms – Don’t rely on just one load board.
- Use return loads – Plan trips that allow you to pick up cargo on the way back.
- Build repeat clients – Regular customers provide steady work.
- Optimize fuel efficiency – Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel prices.
6. Expand Your Business
Once you gain experience, consider:
- Hiring additional drivers.
- Purchasing a bigger truck or trailer.
- Partnering with small businesses for dedicated contracts.
Final Thoughts
Hotshot trucking is an excellent side hustle or full-time business for those who already own a van, truck, or trailer. With minimal upfront investment and high demand, you can quickly turn your vehicle into a profitable asset. Start small, secure good-paying loads, and build long-term relationships to maximize your income.
Hotshot trucking is just one way to make money with your vehicle. Click here for more ways.
