Monday 10 February 2014

What It Takes To Become A Hot Shot Trucking Driver

By Jerri Perry


Freight companies have a tendency to use huge semi-trailer trucks which in most cases are hired for that particular job. The alternative is normally to use hot shot trucking; this is where much smaller trailers are used. These take up much less space as compared to the semi-trailers. In addition to this, they allow for smoother rides and getting contract is also easier.

The hot shot trucking business is an industry that is very lucrative and very attractive for companies dealing in time sensitive cargo and parcels and drivers alike. Drivers are very happy with this business as it gives the freelance ones and opportunity of earning the extra cash. This is possible by leasing their services to the hot shot haulers or go for the online shipping companies that are also increasing in numbers by day. With an appropriate DMV driving license, you can join the industry and drive the trucks pulling trailers or even go for the overweight vehicles.

With clear understanding of the company you choose to work with, it is now time to contact their terminal manager and submit the application. The medical examination is the next part after getting the acceptance note. This also covers drug testing and may take a day or two.

This now provide the opportunity to purchase the trailer. This should be done only after acceptance so as to purchase a rig that meets the requirements specified by the hauling company. The best rig that can be bough is 10.71 tons. This is dual tire with spring loaded dove tail has a tandem axle and is also much cheaper. With such specifications, be sure to meet the requirements that majority hauling companies set.

If you choose to work as an independent driver, you need to be aware of most online freight matching providers as they can make the process of securing a business much easier. The alternative is almost free of bureaucracy and works well for businesses in need of very quick delivery services as finding freelance drivers is much easier.

For freelance drivers, getting acquainted with the online freight matching providers is very important. Through these services, securing businesses becomes easier. The demand is particularly high from only companies that need to ship goods purchased to their customer. This means that you can easily be matched to a load of your specification and to a distance you prefer.

There are several freight companies that offer hot shot trucking which means that you will have plenty of jobs. If you are working for this type of freight companies, then you should be prepared for all types of cargo, from huge factory machines to small boxes and parcels with the only similarity being the time sensitivity nature of goods being ferried.

Before starting to operate a hot shot trucking business as an independent driver or working under a hauling company, you must have the operating authority for FMCSA and all other relevant bodies with proper insurance.




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