started research, need more sources

FMCSR's identify a "Commercial Motor Vehicle" in two ways.

The GVW and the GCWR of the vehicle/vehicles and the type of operation the vehicle is engaged in.

Below 26,000 lbs does NOT require a CDL but some states require an "endorsement" if you tow a trailer greater than 10,000 lbs.

Once your GVW or your GCWR go over 26000 you ARE required to have a CDL.

Any vehicle operating "FOR HIRE" greater than 10,000 lbs is also considered "commercial" for log book, and other regulatory reasons. It does NOT however require a CDL to operate.

I know it can sound confusing...it was for me in the beginning.

 

I started with a 1 ton dually towing a 14,000 GVW trailer. Both combined were 26,000 even. Thus no CDL.

I was going to move up to a E450 with a 20,000 GVW trailer. This combination vehicle then rated at 33,000 thus needing a CDL.

It is all based on the VIN sticker information.

Since then I've decided to get my CDL-A and move on up with the "big dogs" and haul OTR Flatbed in a Class 8.

Good luck with whatever you do. This forum can be an excellent resource.

I wish I would have used it back when I started my "hot-shotting" in 2010, I could have avoided some costly mistakes.

 

"I don't want to embark on the whole cdl endeavor just yet."

It's a real good idea to do your homework in advance, I couldn't agree with you more.

Kodiaks and Topkicks are good Class 5/6 trucks IMO. Diesel provides more pulling torque and more cargo generally equates to more money.

One thing to keep in mind, if you're going to be towing boats or adding any type trailer, you can easily exceed the 26,001 lb limit.

These trucks are already rated in the 16,000 to 26,000 lb range so adding either will put you into a CDL bracket.

 

I would agree , with nic99 " medium" duty trucks its a straw breaking your back issue that could land you in hot water , you could however get a class A license in a medium duty as it could be considered combination based on possible combined gvw ,the only thing I would as when buying any truck is make sure u spend enough money or you will spend it anyway , later on some major repairs , .02¢

 

"I'm interesting in starting hotshot trucking/ auto transport."

Most "hot-shot" auto transporters are hauling a minimum of three cars per load. Anything less just doesn't earn enough over the long run to be viable.

That being said, by the time you couple a worthy truck and a worthy trailer suitable for the job you will likely be in excess of 26,000 lbs anyway

VIN plate of truck plus VIN plate of trailer = GCWR. Over 26,000 lbs. and your CDL-A, no way around it...not legally anyway.

If you're seriously interested in doing the work and you're considering a Class 5 or 6 truck it would be feasible to go ahead and get your CDL.

If you coupled a 20,000 lbs trailer...more than adequate for three cars....with a 26,000 lb truck....you'd be at 46,000 GCWR and in a good position to earn a pretty good rate per mile.

A gooseneck trailer and a good Class 5 bumperpull (18K lb) would allow you to haul either the cars or a single load boat/trailer combo.

Either way you look at it....a CDL rating would be a win-win.