Hot Shot or Big Rig?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by War Hammer, Nov 4, 2020.

  1. Nov 4, 2020 #1
    War Hammer

    War Hammer Bobtail Member

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    Oct 21, 2020
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    Hello all,

    First post. I tried searching but couldn't find a direct comparison so I thought I would use my first post to ask a questions that has been on my mind for a while now.

    If start up money was not the issue what would you all prefer starting a hot shot/ expediter company or class 8 owner operator company?

    What would be the pros and cons of each? Would it be better to start off as a new owner operator as a hot shot where the maintenance cost would be less, or go right to the big guns pulling a flat deck class 8?

    What one would be more consistent to find work for? and lastly what one would pay better?
    Right now it is all a pipe dream anyhow as I am not in a position to jump in with both feet but I would love some feedback as to what you all thought was the better way to start.

    I know this has got to sound like ridiculous to some of you but I would love any advice. I have thick skin so bring on the free advice.

    Thanks
     
    War Hammer, Nov 4, 2020
    War Hammer, Nov 4, 2020
    #1
    rowekmr Thanks this.
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  3. Nov 4, 2020 #2
    LoboSolo

    LoboSolo Heavy Load Member

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    Highway 20
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    If you currently drive like an idiot, then go with hotshot. That way we'll recognize the danger immediately from a distance, and have time to prepare.

    If you're willing to put the work in, go Class 8 and do it right. Just don't go the mega route, take your time and find a good, smaller outfit that will patiently teach you the ropes.

    And put in a couple of years tearing up someone else's equipment before you have to foot the bill for fixing stuff. (in other words, even if yer a billionaire, don't go buying or leasing a truck right away)
     
    Last edited: Nov 4, 2020
    LoboSolo, Nov 4, 2020
    LoboSolo, Nov 4, 2020
    #2
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  4. Nov 4, 2020 #3
    Redtwin

    Redtwin Road Train Member

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    It may just be me, but all the hotshot drivers I have seen appear to be just barely making it. I don't know whether it's the filthy rigs or that soulless look of desperation in their eyes.
     
    Redtwin, Nov 4, 2020
    Redtwin, Nov 4, 2020
    #3
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  5. Nov 5, 2020 #4
    I glide 47

    I glide 47 Road Train Member

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    That's good advice,, so here's my two cents don't fry bacon naked,. That's good advice to
     
    I glide 47, Nov 5, 2020
    I glide 47, Nov 5, 2020
    #4
    War Hammer Thanks this.
  7. Nov 5, 2020 #5
    The Crossword Trucker

    The Crossword Trucker Road Train Member

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    No idea how hotshoting works , but getting a CDL and going straight into being an owner op is not really a viable option.
    I am sure someone here will pipe up and say their rich cousin did it and it worked out great but its not a real world thing at all.
     
    The Crossword Trucker, Nov 5, 2020
    The Crossword Trucker, Nov 5, 2020
    #5
  8. Nov 5, 2020 #6
    Judge

    Judge Road Train Member

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    Thats it.

    I’m going to be a big shot.

    Pros and cons.

    A big truck can carry LTL/Hot Shot expedited.
    A Hotshot Can’t carry a full big load.
    Driving away from full load to DH to another = money lost.
     
    Judge, Nov 5, 2020
    Judge, Nov 5, 2020
    #6
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  9. Nov 5, 2020 #7
    lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    LOL you apparently never talked with a former member here. 1nonly.
     
    lovesthedrive, Nov 5, 2020
    lovesthedrive, Nov 5, 2020
    #7
  10. Nov 5, 2020 #8
    Western flyer

    Western flyer Road Train Member

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    Do you want to live in the back seat of a
    Pick up truck,
    Or a full sleeper with a television,bed,microwave,
    APU, refrigerator, PlayStation,satellite dish, and
    All kinds of storage. And make twice as much money.
    With health coverage,401 k , vacation pay, and
    A legitimate career.
     
    Western flyer, Nov 5, 2020
    Western flyer, Nov 5, 2020
    #8
    Trokera65, Canadianhauler21, War Hammer and 1 other person Thank this.
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