Picking up an extra job on the side of your main occupation is a relatively common practice. Hot shot trucking is one of the most efficient ways to make extra money in your off time, and it comes with a large number of other benefits.
However, not everybody understands what this process involves. Let’s take a look at everything you should know to determine whether or not it’s right for you.
So What Is It?
Put simply, this type of job essentially involves picking up contract work in order to deliver project materials to a specific site. For instance, a construction company located out of state might need replacement equipment delivered overnight.
A hot shot trucker could accept this job, pick up the goods, and then take them to the intended location.
In practice, it’s relatively simple.
How Does It Work?
A hot shot trucker will work with a trucking company in order to accept their work. These businesses are essentially hubs where other companies can place delivery requests.
Drivers who are willing to take the job and have a vehicle capable of delivering the materials can then get started.
While driving, hot shot truckers are generally paid per mile. Your per-mile rate will depend on the company you work with, how far the site is located from you, etc.
In some circumstances, you may have to drive a long distance within a relatively short period of time in order to deliver materials. These jobs are known for paying high amounts.
How Can I Get Started?
In order to get started, you’ll need to have a least a one-ton pickup truck that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classifies as medium-duty.
Although these are classified as noncommercial vehicles, drivers who have Operating Authority, a USDOT number, and are certified business owners can use trucks like these for hot shot trucking purposes.
It’s also essential that you have the appropriate hot shot truck insurance. Otherwise, you won’t be able to accept jobs from the company you work with.
You can check out this resource to learn more about hot shot insurance providers.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Working as a hot shot trucker should be viewed the same way as being a business owner. Your work should speak for itself, and the way in which you engage with others will play a role in how your reputation develops.
It’s also essential that you always satisfy the obligations of the jobs you accept. If you get a reputation that you are difficult to work with or unreliable, you will find it exceedingly difficult to secure work in the future.
Hot Shot Trucking Could Be Life-Changing
So, it’s imperative that you keep the above information about hot shot trucking in mind. This could easily be a profitable and enjoyable experience that you can take advantage of.
Looking for more tips that can help you out later on? Check out the rest of our blog for plenty of more useful information.
