

Those looking to lower their initial investment often go for an F250 or F350, but this can backfire financially. The two main purchases include a truck (usually a pick-up style) and a flatbed, as well as any necessary securing equipment like tie-downs, straps, bungees, chains, etc.įor the truck, most drivers start with a Ford F450 or F550. The start-up costs for a hot shot truck are far less than those associated with typical dry vans. Getting into hot shots is especially appealing for truckers who want to become independent. It was the ‘hot shot’ drivers who kept the oil wells running like a well-oiled machine, and they were paid handsomely for their contributions. Necessary oil parts were manufactured on-demand in facilities like Texas Iron Works then immediately driven down to the oil wells. The term originated in Texas in the 1970s. Hot shot loads can be local, regional or national.

There is often confusion around the term ‘hot shot,’ but the truest definition is any flatbed hauled by a medium or heavy duty truck that delivers a time-sensitive load. When in doubt, contact the Department of Transportation to verify that you have met all of the legal requirements to carry hot shot loads. You will likely need a CDL, as well, though some drivers forego the CDL and run exclusively within a state that does not require one for these kinds of trucks.

This requires proving you have the necessary insurance to cover your loads. First, you must apply to have your own owner-operator authority. To get started as an independent hot shot driver, you must take care of some legalities.
