What is Hotshot Trucking?
Hotshot trucking is a non-CDL freight hauling business using pickup trucks and flatbed trailers. It’s one of the fastest ways to become an independent owner-operator without the massive investment of a full semi-truck setup.
If you’ve got a diesel pickup and the drive to work for yourself, hotshot trucking might be your ticket to financial independence. This guide covers everything you need to know to get started in 2026.
What Equipment Do You Need?
The Truck
Most hotshot operators run a 3/4-ton or 1-ton diesel pickup. The most popular choices are:
- Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty – The most common hotshot truck on the road
- Ram 2500/3500 – Known for the Cummins diesel reliability
- Chevy/GMC 2500HD/3500HD – Duramax diesel with solid towing capacity
Diesel is non-negotiable. You need the torque for heavy loads and the fuel range for long hauls. Expect 8-10 MPG while towing.
The Trailer
A 30-40 foot heavy-duty flatbed trailer is the industry standard. Most operators start with a 40-foot gooseneck trailer. Key specs to look for:
- GVWR rated for your load capacity
- Typically 12,000-16,000 lbs capacity for non-CDL operations
- Ratchet straps, chains, and tie-down points included
Legal Requirements
USDOT Number
Every commercial motor vehicle operating in interstate commerce needs a USDOT number. The good news: it’s free to obtain through the FMCSA website.
MC Number (Motor Carrier Authority)
Your MC number is your operating authority. It costs approximately and takes 3-4 weeks to become active after filing. You cannot legally haul freight for hire without it.
BOC-3 Filing
A BOC-3 (Blanket of Coverage) designates process agents in every state you operate in. This is required by the FMCSA. Cost: -50 through a filing service.
Insurance
You’ll need at minimum:
- Auto liability: ,000,000 minimum for interstate operations
- Cargo insurance: ,000 is standard
- Physical damage: Optional but recommended for your truck and trailer
Budget -1,500 per month for insurance as a new operator. Rates decrease as you build history.
How Much Money Can You Make?
Hotshot loads typically pay .50-3.00 per mile depending on:
- Lane (route) demand
- Freight type and weight
- Urgency of delivery
- Season and market conditions
A solid operator running 2,000-3,000 miles per week can gross ,000-9,000 weekly before expenses.
Key Expenses to Track
Successful hotshot operators track every dollar. Here are your main costs:
- Fuel: Your biggest expense. Budget for 8-10 MPG towing
- Insurance: -1,500/month
- Truck payment: Varies by vehicle
- Trailer maintenance: Tires, brakes, bearings
- Permits and registrations: Annual renewals
- Dispatcher fees: 10-25% if using a dispatcher
Finding Loads
There are several ways to find freight:
- Load boards: DAT, Truckstop.com, and Direct Freight are the big three
- Direct shippers: Build relationships with companies that need regular hauling
- Dispatchers: They find loads for you but take 10-25% of the load pay
- Brokers: Freight brokers connect carriers with shippers
Pro tip: Start with a dispatcher or load board, then transition to direct shipper relationships for better rates and consistent work.
CDL vs Non-CDL Hotshot
The key weight threshold: if your combined GVWR (truck + trailer + load) stays under 26,001 lbs, you do NOT need a CDL. Most hotshot operators specifically set up their equipment to stay under this limit.
Benefits of staying non-CDL:
- No CDL medical card requirements
- Less regulatory burden
- Lower insurance costs
- Faster startup time
Bottom Line
Hotshot trucking is a real business with real money — but only if you run your numbers. Track every mile, every gallon, every load. The operators who succeed treat it like a business, not just a driving job.
Ready to get started? Your next step is getting your USDOT number and MC authority. The process takes about a month, so start now.
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