Hotshot trucking has become one of the fastest-growing segments in the freight industry. It combines speed, flexibility, and independence, allowing owner-operators to build a profitable business with lower overhead than traditional trucking. But the key to success remains the same: consistent, well-paying loads of hotshot truck.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to get hotshot loads, why your equipment matters, how dispatching works, and what it takes to stay booked and profitable every week.
What Is Hotshot Trucking?
Hotshot trucking involves hauling time-sensitive loads using medium-duty trucks—usually a one-ton pickup paired with a flatbed or gooseneck trailer. These shipments are typically smaller than a full truckload and often require expedited delivery.
Hotshot is the go-to solution when a shipper needs cargo delivered fast but doesn’t require a full 18-wheeler. This demand spans industries like construction, oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing.
The Benefits of Hotshot Equipment
Not all trucking setups are created equal. Hotshot rigs offer several distinct advantages for drivers looking to stay competitive and profitable.
1. Lower Start-Up and Operating Costs
Compared to semi-trucks, hotshot setups:
- Cost significantly less to purchase
- Require fewer licenses and certifications
- Are more fuel-efficient
- Have lower repair and maintenance costs
For new entrants or small fleets, this lower financial barrier means you can get started faster and recoup your investment sooner.
2. More Flexibility and Access
A hotshot truck can go places a semi simply can’t. This includes residential areas, tight job sites, rural roads, or zones with strict weight or height restrictions. That flexibility translates into more load opportunities, especially in local and regional freight markets.
3. Faster Turnaround
Hotshot loads are typically easier to load and unload than full-sized trailer freight. This means less downtime at docks and faster transitions between deliveries—so you can take on more jobs and keep the revenue flowing.
Where to Find Loads for Hotshot Trucking
Now that you’re equipped and ready to roll, let’s explore the best ways to find hotshot loads and stay on the road consistently.
1. Load Boards
Hotshot load boards are a fast and accessible way to get freight, especially if you’re just starting out. Look for boards that allow for filtered searches based on weight, distance, equipment type, and preferred lanes.
Top load boards include:
- DAT Load Board
- Truckstop.com
- 123Loadboard
- DirectFreight
- Specialized Facebook groups and forums
Tip: Be sure to check boards multiple times a day and act quickly—hotshot freight moves fast, and good loads disappear in minutes.
2. Direct Relationships with Brokers and Shippers
Once you’ve hauled a few loads successfully, shift your focus to building long-term relationships. Brokers and shippers value reliability. If you’re known for delivering on time and communicating well, they’ll call you before they post a load publicly.
Reach out directly to:
- Construction and equipment rental companies
- Manufacturing facilities
- Oilfield and energy companies
- Local freight brokers
Regular communication, professionalism, and follow-up after successful deliveries can lead to dedicated lanes and repeat business.
3. Dispatch Services: Should You Use One?
Dispatching plays a major role in keeping hotshot trucks booked, especially when you’re just getting started or want to focus more on driving than finding loads. The main benefit of such a service is the fact that there is a hotshot dispatch service near your location every time. If you want to find loads in the state or city where you live – dispatchers do it for you.
What Is a Dispatch Service?
A dispatch service helps you find and negotiate freight, handle paperwork, track loads, and keep your schedule full. In exchange, they usually charge a percentage of each load—typically between 5% and 10% of gross revenue.
Benefits of Using a Dispatcher
- Time-Saving: You stay focused on the road while they handle load boards, calls, and negotiations.
- Access to More Loads: Many dispatchers have broker relationships and can get early access to loads before they hit public boards.
- Better Rates: Experienced dispatchers can negotiate stronger rates and help you avoid low-paying hauls.
- Paperwork Help: From rate confirmations to BOLs and insurance certificates, dispatchers can take care of the admin work so you don’t have to.
When to Hire a Dispatcher
- You’re spending more time searching for loads than driving.
- You’re scaling and need to manage multiple trucks.
- You’re new to the industry and not sure where to start.
- You want a partner who can plan your weeks and reduce downtime.
Just be sure to vet any dispatcher before signing an agreement. Ask about their broker contacts, experience in hotshot freight, and payment terms.
4. Social Media, Forums, and Networking
Don’t underestimate the power of networking in the hotshot world. There are active Facebook groups, Reddit communities, and forums filled with brokers, drivers, dispatchers, and direct shippers.
Join groups like:
- Hotshot Trucking Jobs & Loads USA
- Owner-Operators & Small Fleets Network
- Hotshot & Expedited Freight Carriers
Be active. Share your availability, respond to load posts, and build a name for yourself. These channels can lead to regular freight, especially when brokers remember your name from a previous thread.
Final Thoughts: Building a Sustainable Hotshot Business
Finding loads for your hotshot truck isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing system. Between dispatchers, load boards, direct shipper relationships, and community engagement, your success comes from building a reliable, well-networked operation.
Invest in the right equipment. Build a reputation for reliability. Learn to navigate the market. And always stay one step ahead by planning your week, minimizing deadhead miles, and maximizing every run hotshot truck.
With the right strategy, your hotshot truck can stay booked, profitable, and moving—day in and day out.
