So you want to hot-shot? (Will be updated/edited frequently)

I am looking at getting into this business i have my CDL class A with tankers and Hazmat i have been working for a local coop hauling fertilizer and rigs with big trucks but would like to another F350 (ex wife took my last one) and start hotshotting. I am curious if anyone knows of any companies in the North Central Kansas/South Central Nebraska area that would hire me on basicly to find me loads and keep me busy i am willing to haul what ever needs hauled i dont have a trailer yet but will as soon as i find work to keep me busy and making money. Email me at feight142@gmail.com thanks

 

First of all I wouldn't get an F-350 for this kind of work. I'd look at a Ram 4500/5500 chassis cab with Cummins for power. If you insist on Ford move up to a 450/550 platform. You already have the Class A license so I would go straight to the "bigger" small stuff. A lot of these guys are trying to do this with regular Class C licenses so they're trying to keep everything to 26,000 or less but you don't have to worry about that.

 

Question about max hauling weight. (not concerned about going over 26K..I will have apportioned tags for 40-44K)

2016 Dodge Ram has a GVWR 14000#
Trailer that I am looking at has GVWR 24900#
The combined GVWR totals. 38900#

Truck weighs around 7K and the trailer come in a 9500#
So when I am empty I should scale around 17K to be on the safe side.

Will I be able to carry the 21K legally?

Thanks!

 

Pivotal, most of the guys running that type equipment stop at 16,000lbs. To much strain on equipment everyday pulling more weight.

 

What's the best site or option to find loads, I'm in arizona, thanks for your help.

 

If you dont mind me asking what insurance company do you use and are there any others you recommend?

 

Andy 789 you will have to locate a agent in the state you are based out of. The first few years it will be expensive. Be sure to get a few different quotes and do not go with the lowest one you always want to be with a A rated company. After about 5 years the best insurance companies will insure you for less money. Hope this helps.

 

I've been reading for a couple days, and will do a LOT more. 35+ years class8 trucking, for other people.
Tell me if my idea is totally nuts, but I think one would be better off with a midsize truck, a Freightliner business class, or Pete 335, or similar. They don't cost that much more new over the cost of a 5500 Ram. and used they are less. Of course one must be careful buying used, but I have seen them with about 150k in the $30k range. You would get around 10k more gvw, and could license at 60k with a tandem axle stepdeck, which would open up a lot more load options. The engine, tires, drivetrain, frame, and brakes are stouter and would last much longer. fuel mileage is about the same. I already have the CDL/air brakes, so no issue there. I know some costs would be more, but should offset with longer life.
What do ya think?

 

I was thinking even a single axle cascades would work

 

Yes, but usually used ones will be high mileage, or much higher cost, plus they are heavier to start with, which cuts down your load capacity.
Just look at truckpaper.com and see what they cost compared to a midsize truck.