Hotshot trucking, often called “hot shot” driving, is the transportation of outsized cargo. A truck driver is often called a “hot shot” if they are employed in this type of work. In some regions and countries, hot shot drivers may be known as “over the road drivers.” This is a confusing term because it refers to commercial drivers who travel long distances and stay away from home for days or weeks at a time in other parts of the country. Want to start hotshot truck driving? Pursuing a career as an over-the-road truck driver is an exciting way to live life on the open road, meet new people, and connect with nature. But what does it take to become a successful hotshot trucker? Here is everything you need to know.
What kind of truck do you need to start hot shot trucking?
If you are looking for a hot shot trucking job, you need to realize that you will be a contractor and will be working for a third party. You will not be hired to drive a truck for a particular company or a contractor. In fact, you may not even know who you are going to be driving for. This is why it is important to choose a trucking company that provides a good truck.
A good truck is one that has been well maintained and is fuel-efficient. A good truck will also get you to your stops on time. This is the most important thing you need to keep in mind when looking for a hot shot trucking job. You will not be able to get a good job if you choose an old or poorly maintained truck. It would help if you made sure that the truck you choose is in good shape and that you are comfortable driving it.
Do you need a CDL license for hot shot trucking?
You can get into hot shot trucking without a CDL (commercial driver’s license). However, if you want to be an over-the-road driver, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license. Hot shot trucking is short-haul trucking. It’s the type of driving that takes place within a limited distance, such as within one state. When you are hot shot trucking, your loading and unloading take place at the same location. If you need to go over state lines, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license. Trucking companies frequently hire CDL drivers. If they don’t, they hire drivers with a CDL Class A license. This type of license allows you to drive any truck and trailer combinations that exceed 26,001 lbs.
But did you know that the type of CDL you need to operate a “hot shot” truck depends on the state where you live? There are three types of commercial driver’s licenses in the United States:
Class A CDL: This license is required to operate any single or combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or greater, provided the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. A Class A CDL is also required to operate vehicles with air brakes, which includes most large trucks and semi-trucks.
Class B CDL: A Class B CDL is required to operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or greater or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a GVWR that does not exceed 10,000 pounds.
Class C CDL: A Class C CDL is required to operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is designed to transport 16 or more passengers or is used in the transportation of hazardous materials.
Get DOT, MC number, and other state and government requirements to travel safely
The trucking industry is a complex network of moving parts, where the smallest hiccup can have a ripple effect. It’s easy to get tangled up in the red tape and become lost in the shuffle. Understanding the proper steps for obtaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in addition to the federal and state regulations for operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is a daunting task for any new driver. But don’t worry, a good hot shot trucking provider can help you navigate this process and make sure you have all the information you need to get started on your career as a truck driver.
To obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), you must follow your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) rules and regulations. The application process can be extensive and time-consuming, but once completed, you can obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). It is recommended that you begin the application process with the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at least six months before you plan to begin taking jobs.
The necessary skills and physical abilities you need to become a hot shot driver
A hot shot driver is a truck driver who is employed in a dangerous and physically demanding job in the transportation industry. Hot shots are most commonly employed to deliver materials via truck (often water, sand, and other bulk liquids or grain) to fires, remote construction sites, and other areas where their services are needed. They are also sometimes hired to transport loads across the country or to and from work sites.
If you are thinking about becoming a hot shot truck driver, you need to ask yourself: Do I have the necessary skills and physical abilities to be a hot shot driver? Becoming a hot shot truck driver can be very rewarding, but it isn’t easy. You need to be physically fit and be able to handle the extreme working conditions. You will be required to lift at least 50 pounds, and you will need to be able to handle the extreme heat.
