Hotshot Hauling – Get CDL to Expand Your Operations

Key Takeaways: 

• Hotshot hauling involves transporting smaller, urgent loads using medium-duty trucks and trailers, often without needing a CDL but limited by weight restrictions.
• Without a CDL, the weight limit is 26,000 pounds, but with a CDL, you can haul up to 80,000 pounds, allowing for bigger and better-paying loads.
• Getting a CDL helps avoid DOT fines, increases job opportunities, and offers benefits like insurance discounts and expanded hauling capacity.
• Obtaining a CDL includes meeting age and health requirements, passing written and driving tests, and adding endorsements for specialized loads.

What is Hotshot Hauling?

Hotshot hauling is trucking where drivers transport smaller, urgent loads using medium-duty trucks, like pickup trucks with trailers. It’s different from long-haul trucking, which uses large semi-trucks to move heavy cargo over long distances.

In hotshot trucking, the loads are typically smaller and needed quickly. Everyday items hauled include construction materials, farm equipment, and machine parts.

Key Features of Hotshot Hauling

1. Smaller loads – Perfect for quick deliveries that need to arrive on time.
2. Shorter distances – Usually involves local or nearby trips, not cross-country routes.
3. Flexible schedules – Drivers can choose which loads to take and when to drive.
4. Lower costs – Pickup trucks and trailers are cheaper to run compared to big semi-trucks.

While you don’t always need a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) to do hotshot hauling, getting one can help you expand your business. It allows you to handle heavier loads, opens up more job opportunities, and can increase your earnings.

Types of CDLs and Their Relevance to Hotshot Hauling

The type of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) you need depends on the vehicle and the load you plan to haul. Here are the main CDL classes:

Class A CDL

• Requirements: Needed for vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more, including trailers weighing over 10,000 pounds.
• Relevance: Best for hotshot drivers using larger trailers or hauling heavy equipment and machinery.

Class B CDL

• Requirements: Needed for vehicles that weigh 26,001 pounds or more but pull trailers under 10,000 pounds.
• Relevance: Good for drivers using straight trucks or smaller vehicle combinations.

Class C CDL

• Requirements: Needed for vehicles that carry 16 or more passengers or haul hazardous materials.
• Relevance: Rarely used in hotshot trucking but can apply to specific types of loads.

For most hotshot drivers, a Class A CDL is the best option because it allows you to handle the widest range of vehicles and loads.

Also read: New Entry-Level CDL

CDL Hotshot Weight Limit

Without a CDL, your truck, trailer, and cargo must stay under 26,000 pounds. For example, if your truck weighs 10,100 pounds and your trailer weighs 7,000 pounds, you can only haul 8,900 pounds of cargo.

With a Class A CDL, you can haul up to 80,000 pounds, allowing you to take on bigger and higher-paying loads. This makes a CDL essential for growing your hotshot trucking business.

How to Obtain a CDL

Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a step-by-step process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Understand Eligibility Requirements

Before you apply, make sure you meet these criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old for in-state hauling and 21 for hauling across states.
• Medical Fitness: Pass a DOT physical exam to prove you are healthy enough to drive.
• Clean Driving Record: A good driving history makes it easier to qualify.

2. Study for the CDL Knowledge Test

The first step is passing a written test. You can prepare by using:

• Study guides from your state’s DMV.
• Online CDL practice tests.
• CDL training schools.

3. Enroll in CDL Training

Formal training helps you get ready for both the written and driving tests. Training schools provide:

• Classroom lessons about driving laws and regulations.
• Hands-on practice with commercial vehicles.
• Safety tips and road skills.

4. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

After studying, get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a CDL holder before taking the final test.

5. Pass the CDL Skills Test

The skills test has three parts:

• Pre-trip inspection: Show you can check the vehicle for safety issues.
• Basic controls: Demonstrate how to control and maneuver the vehicle.
• On-road driving: Prove your ability to drive safely in real traffic.

Learn more: CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist 

6. Endorsements for Special Hauling

You can add endorsements to your CDL for specific types of loads:

• T Endorsement: For trailers over 10,000 pounds.
• H Endorsement: For hazardous materials.
• N Endorsement: For tank vehicles.

Top 6 Reasons to Get Your CDL for Hotshot Trucking

Getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can make a big difference for your hotshot trucking business. Here are six straightforward reasons why it’s worth it:

No More GVWR Limits

Without a CDL, your truck and trailer can’t weigh more than 26,000 pounds or 10,000 pounds for the trailer. This includes everything—fuel, your weight, and luggage. A CDL removes these limits, letting you drive bigger trucks and trailers.

Haul Heavier Loads

A CDL lets you carry heavier loads. This means you won’t have to say no to jobs that involve larger cargo, giving you more opportunities to earn.

Avoid DOT Fines

The FMCSA and DOT keep a close eye on hotshot drivers without CDLs. You could face heavy fines if they catch you hauling even a little over the weight limit. You don’t have to worry about breaking weight rules or paying penalties with a CDL.

Earn More Money

Competition in hotshot trucking is growing. Without a CDL, it’s harder to find regular and high-paying jobs. With a CDL, you can access better-paying loads and more opportunities to work with brokers and shippers. This helps you earn more income.

Low Cost of Getting a CDL

Getting your Class A CDL isn’t expensive. You don’t need advanced training for hotshot trucking; you can find affordable CDL training centers near you or even out of state. It’s a small investment for big future rewards.

Save on Insurance

Insurance is a significant expense for hotshot drivers. It covers liability and cargo, and costs can be high. Insurance companies see CDL drivers as safer and lower-risk, so they offer discounts, which saves you money.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can a hotshot haul with a CDL?

With a Class A CDL, you can haul up to 80,000 pounds of combined weight (truck, trailer, and cargo).

Can you use a Class B CDL for hotshot trucking?

Yes, but a Class B CDL is limited to trucks over 26,001 pounds with trailers under 10,000 pounds.

How much weight can a hotshot haul without a CDL?

Without a CDL, the combined weight of the truck and trailer must be 26,000 pounds or less, and the trailer cannot exceed 10,000 pounds.

Conclusion 

Getting a CDL is a great choice if you want to grow your hotshot trucking business. It lets you haul bigger loads, get better-paying jobs, and stay within legal limits to avoid problems.

With a CDL, you can save money on insurance and take on more opportunities. It’s a simple step that helps you avoid fines and build a stronger, more successful trucking career.