Best hot shot trailer? Length? GVWR? Brand? Options?

Discussion in 'Expediter and Hot Shot Trucking Forum' started by KinkadeIN, Jan 2, 2014.

  1. KinkadeIN

    KinkadeIN Bobtail Member

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    Dec 26, 2013
    Griffith, IN
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    The longer the trailer is, the heavier it is = less load weight
    More options (power tail, air ride, tool boxes, etc. = more weight = less load weight

    The shorter the trailer the fewer options of loads but increases mpg's (slightly) and maneuverability

    I am currently pricing out a 1-ton with a GCWR of around 29k If the truck weighs approx 7500#'s that leaves a loaded trailer of around 21,000 (conservatively). A typical 38' trailer weighs in at around 9000#'s which, in turn, leaves me a maximum load weight of around 12,000 pounds.

    Reducing the length to around 30' will reduce the trailer weight to around 7900#'s thus increasing my maximum load weight to around 13,100 pounds.

    I am not new to trucking. I know there are many variables to your total empty weight. The numbers I used were average static weights with some tolerance.
    Do you prefer a shorter trailer for more weight or a longer trailer for potentially larger loads. Large loads typically pay more (more real-estate on the trailer) and don't necessarily weigh more.

    Any input as to what you are currently running would be greatly appreciated.
     
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  3. IAHawkeyeDriver

    IAHawkeyeDriver Bobtail Member

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    Are you staying under 26,000 lbs? If so you may want to recheck your numbers a little. I'm running a F350/non-duels with a 30ft Big Tex, tandem/non-duels and I tip the scales at 13800 with half tank of fuel. That is me checking on a certified scale. I can run 12,000 cargo and still be legal on weight. 30 ft dove tails seem to be the popular trailer for those running under the 26,000lbs....
     
    J.S. Thanks this.
  4. chalupa

    chalupa Road Train Member

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    Houston,Texas
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    I just took a hard numbers look at the hot shot side for post retirement activities......

    Experts told me to be flexible...told me I needed a 35' with a 5 foot dove tail and ramps. My market study suggested a saturation of equipment available so I backed away. Acme looked to be the best lease on deal.....

    Good luck
     
    KinkadeIN Thanks this.
  5. KinkadeIN

    KinkadeIN Bobtail Member

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    I don't have to be under 26k since I am a CDL-A. As I said, my numbers are 'average'.
     
  6. bergy

    bergy Road Train Member

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    Is it better to be enclosed or open for hot shot?

    I've watched that fake show called shipping wars, which I'm sure has no basis in reality (like all the reality shows). That said, they seem to portray a demand for enclosed hot shot hauling.
     
  7. KinkadeIN

    KinkadeIN Bobtail Member

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    Dec 26, 2013
    Griffith, IN
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    Personally, I'm not interested in enclosed trailers, unless it's to ship them. I have hauled 9 place car trailers, RGN's, flatbed, drop deck, van's, etc. I absolutely hated vans. I would rather tarp every load tan to run a van. Severely limits your loads imho. I'm sure there are others that will chime in differently who run vans (cargo trailers). There is a market for them but I'm not interested.
     
    bergy Thanks this.
  8. IAHawkeyeDriver

    IAHawkeyeDriver Bobtail Member

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    Enclosed in my opinion tends to limit what you can haul plus keep in mind, our deck heights are lower than the big trucks so you just can't back up to the dock. Advantage of the flatbed is you can load with overhead crane, side load, drive it up on...etc...and then if it needs to be covered you tarp it. Not saying there isn't a market for it, but it's a lot smaller market....
     
    bergy Thanks this.
  9. IAHawkeyeDriver

    IAHawkeyeDriver Bobtail Member

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    Then go with a tandem/duals and longer length... I wouldn't go longer than 40ft...If you're going after loads that are larger than a 40ft trailer can take, then you should probably upsize to the big trucks...
     
  10. chalupa

    chalupa Road Train Member

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    Houston,Texas
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    They make a type of tail ramp that doubles as deck with the ramps up. It's really cool fab work.

    I was told many shippers are leary about their stuff overhanging so the trailer I described will do fine. One more thing, on the used side be sure to examine the torque tube, tires and brakes very carefully. These are the major wear points. The trailer I'm talking about runs 10k new........

    Good luck....
     
  11. KinkadeIN

    KinkadeIN Bobtail Member

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    Dec 26, 2013
    Griffith, IN
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    I def wouldn't go longer than 40'. I have been thinking around the 35' to 38' lo-pro beaver tail with a 6' beaver tail and ramps with a center lift. Spread axle with air and a lift. Elec / hyd brakes.
     
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