Hotshot Trucking Guide: Simple Tips to Help You Drive and Earn Better
At Skywonder Technology Company Limited, we have been making GPS trackers and offering fleet tracking software for over 12 years. We understand how important it is for truck drivers, especially in hotshot trucking, to work fast and smart. Hotshot trucking is a great way to move smaller loads quickly, but there are important things to know to do it safely and make good money.
In this guide, I will explain what hotshot trucking is, what you need to start, and how our GPS tracking software can help you work better.
What is Hotshot Trucking?
Hotshot trucking is about using smaller trucks, like pickup trucks, to move goods over short distances. These trucks are perfect for businesses that don’t need big trucks but still need to move something fast. For example, a construction company might need a machine delivered quickly, and hotshot trucking is a good way to do it.
From my experience at Skywonder, I know that speed is key in hotshot trucking. That’s why we built our GPS tracking system to help drivers see the best routes and avoid delays.
Who are Hotshot Drivers?
Hotshot drivers are usually independent truck owners or small companies with one or two trucks. They like the flexibility of choosing when and where to work. Many of them stay within 150 miles of home, which allows them to spend more time with their families compared to other truck drivers who go far away.
Our TraqCare software helps hotshot drivers plan their trips, avoid traffic, and check the health of their trucks. This saves time and helps them do their job without any trouble.
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Do You Need a CDL for Hotshot Trucking?
One question we often hear is, “Do I need a CDL (Commercial Driver’s Licence) for hotshot trucking?” The answer depends on how heavy your load is. If your truck and load together weigh less than 10,001 pounds, you don’t need a CDL. But if you’re carrying more, or hauling dangerous materials, you will need one.
With our fleet management software, drivers can track the weight of their load and make sure they follow the rules. Our GPS trackers also send alerts to warn drivers of any issues, helping them avoid problems on the road.
Hotshot Trucking Rules and ELD Compliance
Just because hotshot drivers use smaller trucks doesn’t mean they don’t have to follow the rules. Hotshot drivers still need to follow rules from the Department of Transportation (DOT), including Hours of Service (HOS) and using Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) to record driving hours.
Our company offers an ELD system that connects with our GPS trackers. This makes it easy for drivers to follow the rules without worrying about keeping paper logs. The system automatically tracks driving hours and rest breaks, keeping drivers safe and legal.
What Equipment Do You Need for Hotshot Trucking?
To start hotshot trucking, you will need some basic tools:
- A pickup truck (usually a one-ton truck)
- A flatbed trailer to carry your load
- Tie-down straps, chains, and tarps to protect and secure your load
- Moving blankets to prevent damage
- An ELD system (if required by the DOT)
We also recommend installing GPS trackers on your truck and trailer. This lets you track your route in real time and make sure your cargo is safe. Our GPS system alerts drivers if there are delays or unsafe driving habits, helping you stay on track.
Best Load Boards for Hotshot Trucking
Finding the right jobs (loads) is key to being successful in hotshot trucking. Some of the best places to find loads for your truck include:
- DAT Load Board
- Truckstop.com
- 123Loadboard
- Trucker Path
Using load boards with our GPS system helps drivers plan their trips better. You can see job options in real-time and pick the ones that fit your schedule, helping you avoid wasted trips without cargo (deadhead miles).
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Ask For Demo →Tips for Efficient Load Planning
To be successful in hotshot trucking, you need to plan your loads efficiently. Here are some tips to help you:
- Use Fleet Management Software: Our software shows you the fastest routes, helps you avoid delays, and tracks your vehicle’s health.
- Optimize Your Route: Before starting your trip, check for the best routes and plan your stops for fuel and rest breaks. Our GPS system updates routes based on traffic and road conditions.
- Minimize Deadhead Miles: Deadhead miles are when you drive without a load. Using load boards and GPS tracking together can help you find return jobs and avoid driving with an empty truck.
- Perform Regular Maintenance: Keep your truck in good shape. Our fleet management software sends you alerts when your vehicle needs service or repairs, helping you avoid breakdowns.
Conclusion
Hotshot drivers often have to make quick deliveries while following strict rules about driving hours and rest breaks. Staying compliant with these rules can be hard.
Imagine you’re running late for a delivery because of traffic or other delays. If you don’t have a good GPS system, this could cause you to miss the job or face penalties for not following driving hour rules.
Hotshot trucking is a flexible and profitable way to move goods, but it also comes with challenges, like following DOT rules and planning efficient routes. At Skywonder, we’ve helped many hotshot drivers improve their operations with our GPS trackers and ELD solutions. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your business, our technology can help you stay on top of things, stay legal, and make more money.
At Skywonder, we offer GPS tracking and ELD solutions that help hotshot drivers avoid these problems. Our software tracks routes in real-time, alerts you to delays, and keeps track of your driving hours automatically. You can focus on driving while our system handles the details.
If you’re ready to take your hotshot trucking business to the next level, reach out to us today to learn more about how our GPS and ELD systems can help you succeed.