Hotshot Basics (or Hotshot for Dummies)

The fmcsa requires a minimum of $750,000 auto liability. There is no fmcsa requirement for cargo insurance. Most shippers and brokers will require $1 million liability and $100,000 cargo, depending on what you are hauling. If you haul cars, you may need to bump the cargo up a little.

 

you also need 1 million liability if you haul autos, not the standard 750,000

 

Can I carry a pistol with a CHL or is it the exact same rules as a big truck

 

There is no difference between being in a commercial vehicle or a private car. There are no federal laws which specifically prohibit carrying a firearm in a commercial vehicle.

 

But you will be subject to each state, county and city law you travel through.

 

hey guys i have a 01 dually 7.3 diesel and i cant afford a 40 foot gooseneck woul i make it for a while in a 25 or a 30 dovetail ? i know its not easy at all and its a lot of work and im willing to put the hours and long days. i live alone in kansas city my kids are in florida so i have nuthing to worry about just making money so when they go to college its paid for .. OR IF U CAN PUT A STICKY TO WHERE I SHOULD LOOK THANKS

 

I bought a bumper pull because it weighs less - translates to more payload. 20' long, rated 14,000 with 2 7K axles. I'm in a good location for smaller loads, and have kept as busy as I need to be. I don't haul every day, but I do pick and choose loads to make sure that when I do haul I make money.

Size of the trailer has a lot to do with the availability of work in your area. If everything shipping is 30' long, don't buy a 25' trailer. Try to research some of the load boards to see average lengths/weights of loads in your area.

 

My first trailer was a 30'. Thought I would run lighter and I did stay busy for awhile. Then those smaller loads were harder to get and everything else that was available required at least a 35' trailer so I went out and bought a 40'.
I guess unless you know for sure you have lots of work that only requires a smaller trailer I would go with a 40' and then your set. Just my experience.

 

Make sure to make or get a good speadsheet to track EVERYTHING you must know that cost per mile.
I use a 35' dovetail and many loads, for me, are on my bed only. I think the most important thing is networking. Also, I suggest people have a mentor with 7-10 years of Independent business experience in this industry. Too many laws, regulations and misinformation out there.