Hotshot trucking is one of the most accessible ways to break into the trucking industry as an owner-operator. Lower startup costs than a semi, no CDL required in many cases, and consistent demand for time-sensitive loads. Here is everything you need to know to get started. Also read our guide on owner-operator startup costs to understand the full financial picture before committing.
What is hotshot trucking?
Hotshot trucking typically means hauling smaller, time-sensitive loads with a heavy-duty pickup truck and a flatbed or gooseneck trailer — usually a Class 3-5 truck rather than a Class 8 semi. Compare this to our guide on dry van vs reefer vs flatbed to understand how hotshot fits into the broader trucking landscape.
Do you need a CDL for hotshot trucking?
It depends on your combination vehicle weight. If your truck and trailer combined GVWR exceeds 26,001 lbs, you need a CDL Class A. Many hotshot operators stay under this threshold intentionally. However if you haul hazardous materials requiring placards, a CDL is required regardless of weight.
Equipment for hotshot trucking
Truck: Most hotshot operators use a heavy-duty pickup — Ford F-350/450, Ram 3500/4500, or GM 3500/4500. Diesel is strongly preferred for towing capacity and fuel efficiency under load. Look for a minimum 20,000 lb towing capacity.
Trailer options:
- Gooseneck flatbed (40 ft): Most popular for hotshot — maximum payload and versatility
- Bumper pull flatbed (20 ft): Lower capacity, easier to maneuver
- Dovetail/equipment trailer: For hauling machinery and heavy equipment
Authority and registration requirements
Even for hotshot, if you haul for hire across state lines you need MC authority. Read our full guide on how long it takes to get MC authority and check the full list of documents needed before your first load.
- MC Authority from FMCSA — $300 application fee
- USDOT number — free. Read our guide on what a USDOT number is.
- BOC-3 filing — process agent, typically $30-50
- UCR — Unified Carrier Registration, annual fee
- IFTA if operating in multiple states
Insurance for hotshot trucking
Hotshot insurance is typically cheaper than semi insurance. Read our full guide on FMCSA insurance requirements for the complete breakdown.
- Commercial auto liability: $750,000 minimum. Most brokers want $1,000,000.
- Cargo insurance: $100,000 minimum
- Physical damage: Covers your truck and trailer if damaged
- Non-trucking liability: When driving without a load
Where to find hotshot loads
The same load boards that semi operators use work for hotshot. Read our load board comparison guide to pick the right one.
- DAT One: Largest load board, good hotshot volume
- Truckstop.com: Strong for hotshot and flatbed
- 123Loadboard: Budget-friendly with decent hotshot volume
- Direct shipper relationships: Oilfield and construction firms often look for reliable hotshot carriers directly
How much can hotshot truckers make?
Hotshot income varies widely. For a full breakdown of owner-operator earnings, read our guide on how much owner-operators actually make.
- Revenue per mile: $2.00 - $4.00+ — higher than dry van due to expedited rates
- Gross revenue: $80,000 - $180,000/year for full-time operators
- Net after expenses: $40,000 - $90,000
Your carrier packet as a hotshot operator
Brokers and shippers treat hotshot carriers exactly the same as semi operators when it comes to documentation. You need a complete hotshot carrier packet with your MC number, DOT number, insurance information, equipment details, and broker-carrier agreement before any broker will give you a load.