The Tips Of Operating A Hot Shot Trucking Business

It is very easy to mistake hot shot trucking business for the expedited loads business. It is true that both cases may require delivery of time sensitive good but expedited loads are normally shipped by straight trucks, tractor trailers or even vans while the hot shot trucking is where drivers use flatbeds or the medium-duty trucks specifically designed for pulling trailers meant for hauling loads.

The hot shot trucking business is a rapidly growing industry particularly with the advent of online shopping and home delivery of goods. Several companies that deal in time sensitive cargo are attracted to this form of transportation with drivers having opportunity to work as freelance drivers or lease their services and trucks to hauling companies that work as agents. This means that you just need a DMW driving license, inspection certificate, insurance and of cause a serviceable truck and trailer then you are good to go.

If you choose to work independently, there are still a number of tricks you can use to be competitive and avoid being jobless. You have advantages of choosing load size, the location and even final destination. Better still, you do not have to worry about any deduction from your pay. You must however be prepared to take care of the paper work and any payment related disputes or delays. You also have to be in active networking and marketing in general to secure businesses. The price to charge will vary depending on the size, nature and destination of cargo.

This now provide the opportunity to purchase the trailer. This should be done only after acceptance so as to purchase a rig that meets the requirements specified by the hauling company. The best rig that can be bough is 10.71 tons. This is dual tire with spring loaded dove tail has a tandem axle and is also much cheaper. With such specifications, be sure to meet the requirements that majority hauling companies set.

Once the contract is signed, it is their duty to take care of all paper work and payment processing reducing your work to driving and delivery only. This comes with a price as you can only get between 75%-80% of payment while the rest is retained by them.

In whichever the case however, there are necessary steps that must be completed before one can start. The first step would be to apply for a number from U. S Department of Transportation which can be done online, take insurance for property damage and bodily injury and then find an agent that can deal with legal summons or other documents arising from business. When starting business, you should try getting hauling contracts from the local manufacturers, agricultural businesses, larges stores or warehouses.

With the a few contacts, it is time to ask for referrals. To make business easier, you should also consider online options by creating websites, social media advertisement, sending mails to potential industries and general networking activities. It is important to be aware of all the relevant laws within the state you are operating in. You may also contract other drivers as a broker for goods you cannot deliver.

The online presence is also a good technique where you send emails and establish a website. With the proper authorization from FMCSA and other relevant bodies, it is time to call it ago for your hot shot trucking business. You must however be well versed withal laws and regulations in your state of operation.