Hotshot trucking is a popular and lucrative startup business in the trucking industry that involves delivering time-sensitive and high-value goods over short distances.
It’s a type of freight transportation based career path that requires reliable, powerful, and versatile trucks that can handle a range of loads and terrains. In 2023, there are several top trucks that are ideal for hotshoting, with various features and capabilities that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re a new or experienced hotshot trucker, choosing the right truck is crucial to your success and profitability.
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Best Trucks For Hot Shot Trucking
If you want to start a hotshot trucking startup business, you’ll need a reliable and powerful truck that can handle any load. So, what is the best truck to use for hotshot hauling? Let’s find them below.
1. 2021 Ram 3500 hotshot
Can You Hotshot With A 1500 RAM? Hotshotting with a RAM 1500 is possible. But, it may not be very viable or profitable, because the truck is not designed to tow heavy loads regularly or for long distances.
The RAM 1500 has a towing capacity of 12,500 pounds, which is lower than most hotshot loads. It’s because it’s a single rear-wheel truck. So, it has a lower payload and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) than heavier-duty trucks.
Most hotshot truckers prefer to use a Dually, which is a truck with dual rear wheels on each side. A Dually provides more stability, traction, and braking power when towing large trailers. It also has a higher tow capacity and GVWR than a single rear-wheel truck.
Therefore, some of the best pickup trucks for hotshot trucking are the RAM 3500, the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD, and the Ford F-350 Super Duty.
The Ram 3500 has a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine that delivers 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. And, it can tow up to 37000 lbs with the high-output diesel engine option.
The starting price for this truck is $36,880. But, a second-hand Ram 3500 can cost anything starting from $31,000 to $74000
2. 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
This is another great option for hot shot trucking that offers a slightly higher starting price of $36100. It can tow up to 36000 lbs with the turbo-diesel option.
The Silverado also has a bed with multiple tie-downs and an available power tailgate.
A second-hand Silverado 3500HD can cost anywhere from $15000 to $45000.
3. Ford F-350 Super Duty
This is another super-popular choice among hotshot truckers who value reliability. The Ford F-350 Super Duty has a standard engine that delivers 430 lb-ft of torque.
Plus, it can tow up to 37,000 lbs for Gooseneck trailers. The Ford F-350 also has some advanced features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist which helps you steer your trailer in reverse using a knob on the dashboard.
The starting price for this truck is around $46,000. Plus, a second-hand one can cost from $16,000 and upwards.
4. 08 Ford F250
Can I start up a hot shot business with a 08 Ford F250?
The 08 Ford F250 is a medium-duty truck that belongs to Class 3. That means that it has a weight limit of 10,001-14,000 pounds. So, this truck is suitable for non-CDL Hot Shot trucking.
But, if you want to haul large loads of above 14,000 lb, this truck will not be enough for you.
However, the 08 Ford F250 is cheaper and has better fuel economy than any other popular larger-sized trucks (such as the Ford F-350 Super Duty).
So, if you are just starting the hot shot trucking business and are low on budget, you can give it a try.
Related Post: Best Tow Truck startup cost 2023
Can you hotshot with a box truck?
Yes, you can indeed hotshot with a box truck. Although a hot shot load is typically transported by a midsize truck, using a box truck for hot shooting is absolutely fine as well.
Most of the time, hotshot loads are frequently LTL loads, which means less than a full container or truckload. But, if you have a box truck, you’ll have an advantage of capacity.
Some of the sure advantages of using a box truck for hot shotting for you will be:
1. You can haul different types of cargo, such as furniture, appliances, equipment, pallets, etc.
2. You can protect your cargo from weather and theft with a locked and enclosed cargo area.
3. You can load and unload your cargo easily with a liftgate or a ramp.
4. You can find box trucks in various sizes and capacities to suit your needs.
A disadvantage of using a box truck for hot shotting is:
1. You may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) depending on the weight and size of your truck and trailer combination.