For hot shot loads, load boards provide a place to find loads that can complement existing loads or combine with loads so that carriers can operate more efficiently and cost-effectively, and shippers can get competitively priced rates for their loads.
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The table below shows a quick price comparison of all the load board solutions that we’ve researched:
| Companies (88): | Monthly cost | Free plan |
|---|---|---|
| DAT Load Board | From $45/mo | No |
| 123 Loadboard | From $35/mo | Free trial for 10 days |
| Direct Freight Services | From free | Free account & free to post loads |
| Omnitracs | Not stated | No |
| Amazon Relay | Not stated | No |
| Landstar | Not stated | No |
| Truckstop | From $39/mo | No |
| Trulos | From free | Free to use |
| NextLoad | From free | Free to use |
| Loadup | From free | Free for shippers and some carriers |
| FreightFinder.com | From free | Free to use |
| Maverick Transportation | Not stated | Free to use |
| Atlantic Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Brokered Loads | Not stated | No |
| Jones Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Mercer Transportation | Not stated | No |
| Online Freight Services | Not stated | No |
| Universal | Not stated | No |
| TSH | Not stated | No |
| FindFreightLoads | Not stated | Free for brokers and shippers, a free three day trial for carriers |
| Getloaded | From $145/mo | No |
| Swift Logistics | From free | Free to use |
| FR8Star | Not stated | No |
| C.H. Robinson | Not stated | No |
| Arcbest | Not stated | No |
| Expedite | From $50/mo | No |
| Circle Logistics | Not stated | No |
| RXO | Not stated | No |
| Ryder | Not stated | No |
| BNSF Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Trinity Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Trucker Tools | Not stated | No |
| NTG | Not stated | No |
| Bennett | Not stated | No |
| Full Circle | Not stated | No |
| Globaltranz | Not stated | No |
*The prices in the table above (where available) come directly from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing. Since then, those prices may have changed.
We’ve listed the results of our load board research and the features of each company’s product in a bit more detail below. You’ll be able to see the benefits of their service and some general information about the company as well.
*companies are ranked in no particular order.
Topics
1. DAT Freight & Analytics
DAT Freight & Analytics provides a range of freight tools that help the transportation industry with freight management and analytics.
- They offer a load board that caters for a variety of truck types including hot shot
- You can sign up online for an account with them
- A monthly subscription applies
- They offer unlimited posts and searches
- They provide automated filters to make searching easier
- They provide a large number of loads daily from trusted partners
- You can set up load match alerts for suitable loads
- It can help plan and optimise trips
- It is available on a mobile app so it can be accessed from anywhere
- They also provide users with market insight which is useful in pricing loads
Website: https://www.dat.com/
2. 123 Loadboard
123 Loadboard provides freight solutions for businesses of all sizes in the US and parts of Canada with offices in Houston, Montreal and Toronto.
- They offer a freight matching service which includes hot shot loads
- They offer a range of plans for carriers and brokers
- Offers a free trial for 10 days on carrier plans
- You can sign up online and select your chosen plan
- You can search for suitable loads which include the type of loads
- They provide a Rate Check tool to help you negotiate the best rate
- You can set up alerts for loads that meet your requirements
- They also offer routing and mileage services
- They provide a mobile app so you can access the load board from anywhere
- They also provide credit checking services
Website: https://www.123loadboard.com/
3. Direct Freight Services
Direct Freight Services provides freight services across the US and they help bring together shippers, brokers and drivers.
- Their load board that caters for a large range of loads including hot shot loads
- Free accounts are available to all users
- To access the load board you need to register for an account on their website
- They have over 300,000 loads daily
- They offer unlimited searches with improved load filtering
- Set up load alerts for suitable loads by email and text
- In addition they offer route planning and weather forecasts to assist with pricing loads
- Download the Driver App so you can search for loads anywhere
- Brokers and shippers can posted loads for free
- The load board can also store and send documents
Website: https://www.directfreight.com/
4. Omnitracs
Omnitracs is an international provider of fleet services software that supports drivers, back-office teams and customers to optimise their operations.
- Offers a cloud-based load board that includes expedited services
- They claim to be a leader in expedited freight
- They have a large network of over 26,000 vehicles
- They offer two load board plans
- They cover the US, Canada and Mexico
- You can post and search for loads
- Allows you to run schedule reports
- Provides a Driver Mobile App that can improve driver experience
- Also offers fleet operations, load tracking, dispatch and management of finances
- It can integrate with third-party systems
Website: https://www.omnitracs.com/
5. Amazon Relay
Amazon Relay is the distribution arm of Amazon providing a carrier network to deliver parcels sold through Amazon and third-party parcels.
- Offers a specialist load board for expedited freight
- They offer thousands of small loads on a daily basis
- They have a large network of carriers and drivers
- They cater for box truck and trailer-provided loads
- They offer a range of options including single and multiple week contracts
- Set up real-time alerts for assigned work changes
- The Amazon Relay app provides commercial navigation and fast on-site check-in
- Utilise the app to add stopping points on the route for fuel, food and parking
- Offers hassle-free carrier payments
- Provides a carrier reward and discount scheme
Website: https://relay.amazon.com/
6. Landstar
Landstar offers integrated transportation solutions that are technology-enabled and asset-light, and they have been chosen as one of the Top 100 3PL Providers in 2023 by Inbound Logistics.
- Provides a load board with a large network of over 108,000 trucks
- Offers thousands of loads daily which include expedited loads
- They work with independent agents and owner-operators
- They cover the US and extend into both Mexico and Canada
- You can search easily for suitable loads
- You can also post your truck availability
- Set up load alerts for suitable loads
- The LandstarOne app allows you to find loads from anywhere
- They provide information including pricing, in-depth analytics and capacity
- They also provide resources and back-office support
Website: https://www.landstar.com/
7. Truckstop
Truckstop offers practical freight solutions that cover from matching loads through to payments using technology to improve the processes.
- Provides a load board which caters for carriers, shippers and brokers
- Their load board has over 80 million loads each year
- Offers a choice of basic to advanced plans with a range of features
- Caters for a wide range of loads including hot shot and expedited loads
- They offer an instant load booking feature
- Book loads from any location using their app
- Vetted brokers and shippers for loads that you can trust
- Provides rates with loads so you can see what you’ll earn before you book
- Rate confirmations are sent within in seconds of booking
- Additional services include invoice factoring and cargo insurance
Website: https://truckstop.com/
8. Trulos
Trulos offers a load board that specialises in partial loads that are designed for small fleets and owner-operators and enables them to compete with larger companies.
- Their load board is free to use
- Offers LTL, partial loads and hot shot loads
- You don’t need to sign up to the load board to get access
- Suitable for a range of trucks including dry vans and flatbeds
- They offer thousands of loads every day
- You can search for loads based on location state and truck type
- Posts include rates for the loads
- They can help with fuel-efficient routing
- They offer business advice to assist with profitability
- They also offer information to help support users
Website: https://trulos.com/
9. NextLOAD
NextLOAD offers a selection of tools to help carriers, trucking companies, brokers and shippers and is part of Apex Capital.
- They offer a free to use load board
- You can only book loads if you have an established credit relationship with Apex Capital
- They offer thousands of loads every day
- You can search loads easily using a range of filters
- They provide unlimited accounts so you can allocate them to drivers and dispatchers
- Get new load alerts sent to you that match your requirements
- Access the load board through a desktop, mobile or tablet
- Manage loads through the load board
- Can be integrated with a TMS platform
- Also offers factoring services
Website: https://www.nextload.com/
10. Loadup
Loadup is a freight provider that offers two load boards covering different markets, one for the US and Canada and the other for the rest of the world.
- They provide a load board that is free for shippers
- Some carriers can join for free including couriers, other carriers may need to pay a membership fee
- They cater for a variety of users including individuals, manufacturers, freight brokers, house and furniture movers
- You can search loads by filtering on state, pick or delivery, and equipment type including hot shot
- Posts including detailed information on the load including the equipment requirements
- They provide access to bids and auctions
- You can also access any tenders
- Alerts can be set up for new loads
- They allow carriers to speak directly to shippers and brokers
- All members are listed in their directory
Website: http://www.usacanadaloadup.com/
11. FreightFinder.com
FreightFinder.com offers a load board that is integrated with the LoadBoardNetwork and supports owner-operators, trucking companies and freight brokers.
- Provides a load board that is free to use
- You don’t need an account to access the load board
- They allow users to personalise their load board experience
- Offers thousands of loads daily
- Searches can be done using origin, destination, radius and equipment
- Carriers can post their truck availability
- Offers additional services including routing and mileage
- Includes a listing in their industry directory
- They provide a refined search engine for the trucking industry
- Also provides a trucking job site
Website: https://www.freightfinder.com/
12. Maverick Transportation
Maverick Transportation offers freight services across the US, Canada and Mexico with eight locations in the US that serve 49 US states.
- They offer a load for shippers and carriers that is free
- Their program is called Internet Truckstop Diamond Broker Program
- Caters for a range of loads including hot shot loads
- They offer continuously updated loads
- You can search and sort the loads by any of their load fields
- Advanced search function is available to narrow down searches
- You can find consistent lanes to fill your truck
- Detailed information is available on loads such as origin, destination, mileage, full or partial load, equipment type, commodity and weight
- Provides a vetted network of carriers that meet their standards
- Specialise in agricultural and construction sectors
Website: https://www.maverickusa.com/
13. Atlantic Logistics
Atlantic Logistics is a load board provider that aims to help businesses that ship goods to improve their supply chains.
- Offers a load board that handles a variety of freight including expedited loads
- They have a large network of qualified carriers
- They offer loads across North America
- They have completed over 250,000 loads
- You need to register for the load board and be vetted before you get access
- You can search for loads based on origin, destination, mileage, dates, rate and equipment
- They provide tracking services for deliveries
- Quick Pay options are available
- They provide a dedicated support team
- They were named a top freight broker for the 5th time in 2021
Website: https://www.shipatlantic.com/
14. Brokered Loads
Brokered Loads offers a load board in conjunction with ATS Logistics and Sureway Transportation Company.
- Offers a load board with real-time updates
- They provide a variety of load types which include hot shot
- You need to register to access to the load board
- Carriers are vetted before they get access to the load board
- Loads can be searched using the origin or destination with a radius, load size, date and equipment
- They provide a self-service booking system
- Shippers need to send load details to them to add to the load board
- Loads can be tracked in real-time
- Documentation can be shared through the Customer Portal
- They can help streamline paperwork through an integration with Transflo
Website: https://brokeredloads.com/
15. Jones Logistics
Jones Logistics is a freight services company that offers services including managed transportation, freight brokerage and dedicated operations.
- Offers a load board which offers a range of equipment including hot shot
- Designed to help carriers maximise their trucks and increase revenue
- You will need to register with them and be vetted to access the load board
- They have a large network with over 26,000 carriers
- Search loads using filters on location, day available and equipment
- Posts include load information such as origin, destination, distance, weight and equipment
- Provide communication tools to assist in managing loads between parties
- Load tracking is available
- The load board can also help with billing, claims management and scheduling
- Quick Pay options are available
Website: https://www.joneslogistics.com/
16. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation claims to be one of the US’ largest carriers and is an experienced provider with over 50 years of service across North America.
- They offer a load board that incorporates hot shot loads
- Over 500,000 loads are delivered each year
- They have a large network comprising of 30,000 carriers
- You need to register to access the load board
- Carriers are vetted before getting access which includes insurance and safety
- The load board is easy to search
- You can book loads or utilise a Personal Load Coordinator to manage loads
- Shippers can track loads in real time
- They offer fast payments
- They also offer a fuel discount card and discounts on servicing and tyres
Website: https://mercer-trans.com/
17. Online Freight Services
Online Freight Services provides freight systems that help manage shipments and they are backed by Echo Global Logistics.
- They offer an easy to use load board
- They have a network of over 50,000 carriers which includes hot shot carriers
- You can apply online to join their network
- The load board is a self-service portal
- They claim to offer competitive load rates
- They have a broad range of clients with various load types
- It enables you to check payment details and status
- They provide out-of-hours support
- Quick payment options are available
- Incorporates TMSPro to offer collections handling, invoice issuing and paying carriers
Website: https://onlinefreight.com/
18. Universal
Universal claims to be one of the largest truckload transporters in North America who provides suite of transportation and logistic services to support shippers and carriers.
- They offer a load board that caters for a range of loads including expedited loads
- They provide on-demand, door-to-door and emergency services
- Serves the US and Canada
- Suitable for small and large vans
- Offers thousands of loads
- You need to apply online to become a carrier
- Carriers are vetted before they get access to the load board
- Provide an experienced support team
- They assist clients to scale their businesses and meet demands
- Specialise in services to the retail and consumer goods, automotive industry, aerospace, energy, government services, healthcare, industrial, and steel and metals
Website: https://www.universallogistics.com/
19. Tennessee Steel Haulers
Tennessee Steel Haulers (also known as TSH) is a trucking company that provides a brokerage service for short and long hauls through a combination of their drivers and a carrier network.
- Provides a real-time load board
- They cater for a range of load types including hot shots
- You need to register to access the loads
- Carriers are vetted before being approved
- The load board can be searched by location and radius
- Posts include load details such as origin, destination, miles, commodity, weight and notes
- They help streamline paperwork with in-cab scanning
- They offer daily settlement payments
- Drivers can access fuel discounts and bonus schemes
- They also offer training programs
Website: https://tenh.com/
20. FindFreightLoads.com
FindFreightLoads.com provides a load board that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to help match carriers and shippers with loads.
- Provides a load board called RightNowLoad.com that includes hot shot loads
- Free for brokers and shippers to use
- Carriers have to pay a monthly fee but there is no contract
- They offer carriers a three day free trial
- Easy to search for suitable loads
- Allows carriers to contact shippers, brokers and manufacturers directly
- Monthly allowance to conduct credit reports
- Shippers can utilise a bulk upload facility
- Access benefits such as fuel discounts, weather and load conditions, mileage and routing directions
- Offers factoring solutions to provide fast payments
Website: https://findfreightloads.com/
21. Getloaded
Getloaded offers a busy load board with over 400 million loads posted in 2022 and a third were exclusive to Getloaded.
- Their load board is combined with DAT’s load board
- They provide a load board suitable for owner-operators, small carriers and brokers
- They cater for a variety of loads including hot shot loads
- They offer a range of plans with a monthly subscription
- Plans include unlimited searches and posts
- Carriers can conduct multiple searches
- You can set up alerts for suitable loads
- They provide additional tools including credit scores and collaboration tools
- It is available on online and through the mobile app
- Offers a wealth of information such as carrier safety information, spot market rates and load-to-truck ratios
Website: https://www.getloaded.com/
22. Swift Logistics
Swift Logistics offers a load board alongside KNX Logistics which provides transportation and logistics solutions across North America.
- Offers a load board that includes expedited loads
- Their load board is free with no fees
- There is no contract for their services
- Their load board has over 2,000 unique customers
- A network of over 20,000 carriers
- Their loads total over 10 million miles per day
- You can sign up for a free account on their website
- Loads can be easily searched
- Operational support is available 24/7
- They offer a fuel saving program called The Iron Fuel Program
Website: https://www.swiftlogistics.com/index.html
23. FR8star
FR8star brings together qualified carriers and shippers on their load board to help them find a match for delivering loads.
- Provides a load board suitable for hot shot loads
- They enable carriers and shippers to access the load board
- The load board covers the US
- They offer three tiers of pricing
- Searches for loads can be done based on location, shipment type, special load requirements, and load/unload method
- Shippers can submit loads to the load board
- The load board provides transparent bidding with no hidden costs
- They provide assistance with planning, booking and fulfilling loads
- They offer industry information and insights
- It can be connected to other platforms
Website: https://www.fr8star.com/
24. C H Robinson
C H Robinson provides a transportation platform that is one of the world’s largest logistics platforms handling $30 million of freight annually.
- Their transportation management system is called Navisphere
- Their network has over 96,000 carriers including hot shot carriers
- They have an extensive customer base of 100,000
- There are three tiers of plans
- Carriers can register for the load board on their website
- Users can manage their loads using automatisation and optimisation
- Shippers can use the load board to manage quotes, loads and invoices
- Loads can be tracked and routing information accessed
- They provide QuickPay solutions
- They also offer fuel discounts
Website: https://www.chrobinson.com/en-gb/
25. ArcBest
ArcBest offers logistics and shipping solutions to companies across the US, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
- Offers a load board that caters for a variety of loads including expedited loads
- Their Panther Freight solution offer premium freight
- Over 5,000 loads available every day
- You need to join the load board through their website
- Loads are searchable by equipment type, date, location and shipment type
- Allows carriers to find loads on their preferred lanes
- Assists businesses to increase their efficiency
- Their support team are available around the clock
- Offers weekly pay for their loads
- They provide a driver reward program
Website: https://arcb.com/
26. Expedite
Expedite is a load board that specialises in expedited loads across the US and Canada delivering over 70,000 expedited loads each month.
- Offers expedited loads only
- Their network comprises 2,000 carriers and brokers
- It is suitable for independent contractors, small expediting companies and freight companies
- Caters for carriers with Sprinter vans, cargo vans and box trucks
- There are two plans offered for different vehicle types
- You can register online for the load board
- Carriers will be vetted before getting access to the load board
- It can be accessed through the web and mobile app
- The load board can be easily searched and bids placed
- Brokers can post loads quickly
Website: https://expediteloadboard.com/
27. Circle Logistics
Circle Logistics provides logistics solutions for businesses through their fleet and their carrier network which operates across the US, Canada and Mexico.
- Their load board caters for a range of loads including hot shot loads
- They cater for smaller carriers and assist them in accessing larger opportunities
- Choice of dedicated or traditional broker options
- They have nine offices across the US to run operations
- Loads can be searched and filtered based on location within a radius and equipment type
- It displays rates for loads
- Offers fast payment options
- Offers personalised solutions to shippers
- Provides visibility of loads with tracking
- Integrates with ELD software to assist with EDI requirements
Website: https://circledelivers.com/
28. RXO
RXO claims to be one of America’s leading transportation brokers and best large employers, and they offer a load board.
- Their load board is called RXO Connect
- They cater for a range of loads including expedited loads
- It covers North America
- They have a large independent network of 100,000 carriers
- They allow you to search for loads based on equipment and location
- It displays real-time information and allows you to bid and book loads
- It can be accessed through a mobile app from anywhere
- Shippers can access on-demand capacity
- Offers information on spot rates, capacity and market conditions
- Provides RXO Extra rewards program that can save money on fuel
Website: https://rxo.com/
29. Ryder
Ryder offers a full-service brokerage solution for carriers and shippers that allows them to optimise their supply chains.
- Offers a one-stop network of carriers on their load board
- Provides a range of load options including expedited loads
- Their network has over 28,000 carriers
- They cover North America
- You can register as a carrier online by completing a Carrier Profile
- Carriers are vetted for safety and insurance
- Carriers can choose their ideal hauls and lanes
- Shippers are provided with reliable and flexible freight solutions
- They provide real-time shipment tracking
- They offer strategic market intelligence and insight
Website: https://www.ryder.com/en-us
30. BNSF Logistics
BNSF Logistics is a logistics and supply chain solutions company that is a subsidiary of Burlington Northern Santa Fe.
- They offer a load board in partnership with Trucker Tools
- They offer freight matching for a range of loads including expedited loads
- They offer over 300,000 truckloads each year
- They have a network of qualified and trusted carriers
- Carriers need to register with them and provide qualifying information
- Carriers are vetted before they receive access to the load board
- They provide automated booking
- Dedicated account managers are provided for shippers
- You can use the load board to store and control documents
- It can monitor invoices and offers fast payments
Website: https://www.bnsflogistics.com/
31. Trinity Logistics
Trinity Logistics supports businesses with their logistics and supply chains and has been rated as one of the top 20 US freight brokerage companies.
- They provide a carrier portal to find loads
- Thousands of shipments are available
- Large network of authorised carriers
- Carriers need to join their network and be vetted
- They cater for a variety of equipment including expedited loads
- Loads can be viewed and searched easily
- It allows you to submit quotes and book loads
- Carriers can post their equipment availability
- They offer TruimphPay for quicker payments
- They recognise their carriers through a reward scheme
Website: https://trinitylogistics.com/
32. Trucker Tools
Trucker Tools offers a range of freight management tools which include TMS, ELD and telematics, load board and dispatch systems.
- Provides a load board called Book It Now
- Their network comprises 165,000 carriers and 13 million truckers
- You need to sign up to the load board on their website
- It is easy to search and book loads
- Carriers can search for loads on preferred lanes and save preferred brokers
- It offers recommendations suited to your preferences
- Quotes can be sent and rates negotiated through the load board
- It allows users to manage their loads through the load board
- They provide tracking facilities for loads
- They provide additional tools to support truckers
Website: https://www.truckertools.com/
33. NTG
NTG (also known as Nolan Transportation Group) claims to be one of North America’s top ranking logistics companies that provides multi-modal expertise and technology assistance.
- Their load board is called Beon Carrier
- They have a network of over 80,000 carriers
- They cater for a range of load types including expedited
- Make it easy to search for suitable loads
- You can bid and win loads at the best rates
- Offers the choice of instant bid and book functionality or book straight away
- Can be accessed through a web-based portal or mobile app
- They provide freight tracking 24/7
- Offers a choice of payment options including 1 or 2 day payments
- Additional functionality includes document storage, shipment information, invoices and PODs
Website: https://ntgfreight.com/
34. Bennett
Bennett is a logistics and transportation company that utilises a combination of employees, agents and a network of owner-operators across North America.
- Offers a load board that caters for owner-operators and carriers
- Their network comprises over 3,000 carriers
- They offer a variety of load types including expedited loads
- You can search for loads that match your requirements
- Provides a personal contact to support you
- Provides free ELD devices to those transporting five or more loads each month
- Can be accessed through their mobile app or loads can be emailed to you
- They offer advanced shipment tracking and proof of delivery
- Provides quick pay with no fees which pays in three days
- Offers faster payment solutions but a processing fee applies
Website: https://www.bennettig.com/
35. Full Circle
Full Circle offers transportation solutions to support businesses to automate processes and improve their profitability which include a transportation management system, ELD and load board.
- Offers a load board that specialises in hot shot and expedited loads
- Ideal for Sprinter vans, cargo vans, straight trucks and tractor-trailers
- The load board is included in the TMS plans
- You have to register as a load board user to access it
- They enable carriers to search and bid on loads
- Brokers and shippers can easily post their loads
- Shippers can manage and award loads through the load board
- Auto-dispatch load functionality is available to confirm rates and send unsuccessful notifications
- They offer a friend/unfriend function for partners in the network
- They offer paper-saving tools through their integrated driver mobile app
Website: https://fullcircletms.com/
36. GlobalTranz
GlobalTranz provides logistics and freight solutions for shippers of all sizes and different equipment types across North America.
- A load board designed for drivers and dispatchers
- Offers a range of equipment types including expedited loads
- A carrier network with over 85,000 carriers
- They have over 121,000 customers
- Carriers can register online to get access by completing their online application
- It offers access to real-time loads and allows loads to be managed
- They provide tracking facilities and performance reports can be run
- Enables all payments to be managed online
- Provides support through a dedicated carrier relations team
- Offers Quick Pay options of 24-48 hours
Website: https://www.globaltranz.com/
Hot shot load board Q&A
What are hot shot loads?
Hot shot truckloads are a type of load that involves the timely delivery of items to a specified location. These types of loads can be time-sensitive and tend to be smaller loads that need to be delivered shorter distances than other types of loads. These are sometimes referred to as expedited loads and less than truckloads or LTL loads.
Hot shot drivers tend to specialise in providing these types of services as they can be difficult to combine with other load types and they tend to focus on a specific geographic area that is smaller than other types of trucking.
Key characteristics of hot shot loads include:
- Urgency and Time-Sensitivity: Hot shot loads are usually needed on-site as quickly as possible to keep projects on schedule or to address immediate needs. This urgency might be due to production demands, construction schedules, or to replace broken parts essential to operations.
- Size and Type of Cargo: While the cargo can vary widely, hot shot loads are generally smaller than standard truckloads, making them a perfect fit for the capabilities of smaller, more agile vehicles. The cargo can range from construction equipment and materials to machinery parts and manufactured goods.
- Equipment Used: Hot shot truckers typically use dually pickups or similar medium-duty trucks towing flatbed trailers. This setup allows for rapid response and the ability to navigate roads and areas that may be inaccessible to larger commercial vehicles.
- Licensing and Regulations: Hot shot trucking still falls under commercial transport, meaning drivers must comply with relevant Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. However, the specific requirements can be less stringent than for larger trucks, depending on the total weight of the vehicle and cargo. For instance, if the combined gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is under 10,000 pounds, certain federal regulations may not apply, though this threshold can vary.
- Market and Demand: The demand for hot shot trucking services is driven by industries that require quick, on-demand delivery of goods. The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of hot shot services make them particularly appealing to businesses looking for direct transport solutions without the need for the full logistics of larger shipments.
Typically hot shot loads are most suited to smaller vehicles like box trucks, pickup trucks and trailers as they are more agile to drive and economical to run for smaller loads. Hot shot trucking tends to be a more flexible driving option as the work is more local and can adapt to changes and last minute requests.
Why should you use hot shot services?
You should use hot shot load services if you have small loads that need to be delivered quickly. They offer flexibility and convenience as they provide last minute and time-sensitive services which means that businesses can get prompt deliveries that are delivered efficiently.
Hot shot loads can be more cost-effective as they are delivered by smaller vehicles that operate in local areas which can provide services that are more flexible, efficient and have lower operating costs. As a growing type of trucking due to the increase of ecommerce, there is a competitive market for hot shot loads and plenty of drivers offering these services.
How are hot shot loads different from other types of haulage?
Hot shot loads refer to a specific type of freight hauling that typically involves urgent, time-sensitive deliveries using medium-duty trucks, such as class 3 to 5 trucks, often pulling flatbed trailers. This form of transport is distinguished by its focus on smaller, more immediate loads than those typically handled by larger semi-trucks and trailers in the commercial trucking industry. Here are several key aspects that differentiate hot shot loads from other types of haulage:
1. Urgency and Delivery Speed
- Hot shot services are often used for deliveries that are too urgent to wait for the scheduling of a regular freight carrier. These loads typically need to be delivered quickly, sometimes immediately, to meet project deadlines or to replace failed equipment crucial to ongoing operations.
2. Vehicle Type
- Hot shot trucking usually involves lighter, more agile vehicles, such as dually pickups or medium-duty trucks, towing flatbed trailers. This contrasts with standard trucking that utilizes larger semi-trucks (class 7-8 trucks) and trailers. The smaller size of hot shot vehicles allows for faster loading and unloading, as well as the ability to navigate roads and areas that might be inaccessible to larger trucks.
3. Load Size
- Hot shot loads are typically smaller and may not require the full space of a large trailer. This service is ideal for freight that doesn’t fill an entire semi-trailer but still needs to be transported separately due to its urgent nature.
4. Flexibility
- Hot shot truckers often operate with more flexible schedules and routes than traditional freight carriers. They can quickly respond to last-minute requests, providing a personalized service level that larger freight operations may not offer.
5. Operating Costs and Regulations
- Operating a hot shot service can have lower entry costs compared to traditional semi-truck operations. The vehicles used in hot shot trucking are less expensive, consume less fuel, and the initial investment is generally lower. Additionally, hot shot drivers may face fewer regulatory hurdles, depending on the weight of the vehicle and the load, although they still must comply with relevant Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if the combined weight exceeds certain thresholds.
6. Market Niche
- Hot shot trucking fills a specific niche in the freight industry, catering to customers who need rapid, direct delivery of cargo that doesn’t require the massive capacity of a standard truck. This includes industries like construction, where machinery parts may need immediate replacement, or oil fields requiring swift delivery of equipment.
In summary, hot shot loads offer a distinct service within the transportation and logistics industry, focusing on speed, flexibility, and the transportation of less-than-truckload (LTL) freight that still demands urgent delivery. This service provides an essential link in the supply chain, especially for industries where time is critical, by using medium-duty trucks and trailers for rapid, direct transport.
Do all hot shot load boards show rates?
Not all load boards show the rates for loads. Many of the load boards are created as competitive platforms where carriers or drivers bid for the loads and therefore including the rate as part of the post would be disadvantageous to the process. Some do however offer rates so that the loads can be quickly accepted and delivered.
Some load boards provide some additional tools that can support carriers in deciding on their rates for their bids, this can include historical rate information and rate calculators.
These tools can also help shippers and brokers assess the bids that they receive or set their expectations for bid levels before posting a load.
Which load board pays the most?
It is fair to say that no load board will pay more than another load board although some may say they offer competitive rates which may refer to those that advertise rates. Those that work on a competitive bidding basis or allow carriers to negotiate or quote for the load give the power to the carrier to determine how much they earn from the load.
Carriers can bid for the loads they want and accept the loads that are advantageous to them.
The impact that the load board can have on the load revenue is the charges or fees that are applied. Some load boards can be free to use or access but have charges applied to the load when it is won.
Other load boards have a subscription fee instead. All load boards have different costs or charges so you will need to look into these and work out how this will impact any loads you win and if you need to factor this into your bid or quote.
Are there any restrictions around using hot shot services?
Yes, there are several restrictions and considerations that apply to hot shot trucking services, largely stemming from regulatory, operational, and market-specific factors.
Understanding these restrictions is important for both providers and users of hot shot services to ensure compliance and to optimize the efficiency and legality of their operations.
Here are some key restrictions and considerations:
1. Weight Limits and Regulations
- Hot shot trucks and trailers are subject to weight limits set by federal and state regulations. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which includes the weight of the truck, trailer, and cargo, often determines the level of regulation. For example, if the combined GVWR exceeds 10,000 pounds, the operation is subject to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, requiring DOT numbers and adherence to specific safety standards and reporting.
- Drivers may need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for vehicles or combinations exceeding certain GVWR thresholds (typically 26,001 pounds or more).
2. Hours of Service (HOS)
- Hot shot drivers, like all commercial drivers, must comply with HOS regulations, which limit driving hours to prevent fatigue. These regulations specify maximum driving times and mandatory rest periods. However, there are exemptions and variations, especially for drivers operating within a certain distance from their base.
3. Insurance Requirements
- Hot shot operations must have appropriate insurance coverage, including liability, cargo insurance, and possibly additional coverage depending on the type of goods transported. Insurance requirements can be more stringent than for non-commercial or lighter vehicle operations.
4. Equipment and Safety
- Vehicles and trailers must meet specific safety standards and be properly maintained. This includes regular inspections, securing loads safely, and ensuring that all equipment used for hauling is in good working condition.
- The type of trailer used (e.g., flatbed, dovetail) must be appropriate for the cargo being transported, and drivers need to be trained in securing different types of loads.
5. Market and Cargo Restrictions
- Certain goods may require special handling, permits, or additional regulations (e.g., hazardous materials, oversized loads). Hot shot services might not always be equipped or certified to handle these types of cargo.
- The market demand for hot shot services can be variable and may depend on specific industries (such as oil and gas, construction, or agriculture), which can influence availability and rates.
6. Geographical Limitations
- While hot shot services can offer greater flexibility and access to rural or hard-to-reach areas, international deliveries or cross-border operations may involve additional regulations, taxes, and customs requirements.
7. Operational Flexibility
- Despite the flexibility of hot shot trucking, availability can be an issue, especially for last-minute or highly specialized requests. Scheduling and route efficiency are crucial, as is the ability to quickly respond to customer needs.
Hot shot trucking offers a valuable service for urgent, time-sensitive deliveries, but it operates within a framework of regulations and market conditions that both service providers and customers must understand. Compliance with legal requirements and industry best practices ensures the safety, efficiency, and reliability of hot shot services.