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

I don't want to tell you wrong but you can call the fmcsa or email them and they will help you as best as they can as long as it falls under their regulations. I just got off the phone with them to finish up my registration.

 

As far as weigh stations, or even roadside or rest areas inspections, watch the signs they put out carefully.
Usually "all trucks" means all commercial trucks, which is hauling for profit, which you are.
Sometimes it says all diesel trucks, which means ALL diesel trucks, even guys pulling their own camper or just prefer a diesel p/u.
I don't think I've ever seen a weight minimum on those signs.

 

Thank you ErieMcDreary I've further looked into it. I am subject to it, because like you said the commercial hauling for profit. Does this still hold me to weigh in, even if i'm deadheading and happen to be passing a station?
As for the ELD, I found that its going to become mandatory come December 2019 on another forum. Does anyone have a specific service they would recommend? I plan on having paper and electronic, just trying to throw a feeler out there.

 

Yes, even if empty.

 

Wow awesome work guys running on a 4 year thread. BRAVO you honesty and desire to help new prospects says a lot about you as individuals, best work on any topic I’ve ever seen.
Spent the time to read this book and really should be one.
Lived in the dog eat dog world of NorCal 25 years. Never liked living in Cali. Was military brat that landed there in 79.
So I’m from Deep South originally knowing I need to drive or work on a truck is what I needed to survive here in Mississippi. Been diesel industrial tech here for over 20 years now. To test and verify my repairs I’ve had class A for bout 10 years now.
The cdl is my future when wrenching time is done. Well it’s that time, tired of working for the man...too old and hard to get along with at this point.
Watched this hotshot thing evolve from oil field equipment movement to a viable industry. Been in trucking businesses long time, it’s adapting and I feel it’s here to stay.
Always wanted a 379 flat top with a cat. Cost to run this size equipment not cheap..: hotshot gonna be my thing. Bought low mileage 06 ram 3500. Has gooseneck setup and and load bags front and rear. In process of making it DOT compliant. Pay for me not bad for round here and will continue to work to pay for equipment needed, that soon come.
Bit of a rant sorry I’m old man lol.

See knowing bugit and cost to run, very important. For me my cost of living is low as it gets compaired to most.

Cost of health insurance not discussed in budgets and needs to be a factor also. Cld holders need yearly visit to a doctor.

Even you guys below 26k need to be Dot compliant. Meaning truck needs to meet epa regulations for that year model truck. Go ahead and get caught with that new truck you just deleted. Here we can’t even work on a truck that has been deleted, can get in trouble even knowing it is. EPA don’t play and has been cracking down. Just don’t go there.
When it comes to hauling loads I’m just as green as you guys, information provided here is priceless for this industry

 

Want to talk about box trailer use can fill the need for dry goods hauling and can fit a car. Cheap to buy also

 

Hello Hot Shotters!

I have been dabbling in auto transport in FL (Illegally I guess ) I drive a 2014 6.7 cummins 3500 drw 4x4 with a 40' gooseneck. I primarily transport Jeeps so I try to pull 3 at a time. Costs me about .65 a mile after everything and I'm getting 1.25 consistently. Easiest work I've ever done!!!

Have had a ton of fun!!!! But I would really like to do this 24/7 legally and hopefully get out of Cars entirely. I do have CDL- A as of now but no real verifiable experience & I'm 25 years old so It's probably gonna be hunt!!!!! Is there any decent companies you guys would suggest to lease on with?

I'm aware I will probably need to FL. just would like to stay out the Snow. If at all possible?

Thank you, so much.

 

It’s all fun and games while running illegal
You don’t have as much cost. Can run whatever hours you need to finish your trip. Pumping out money left and right not having log to abide by.
I don’t go that far south. I hear FL can Be a tough market to make good money. Specially being brand new.
Wish I could advise a company to lease on to. I just know trying on your own being 25 is getting net you a HIGH insurance down payment and premium.

 

SO truee!!!!! I would like to run alone eventually but it's looking like 20k to get completely legal at this point and I'm only half way there after upgrading the rig a bit.

Have you ever heard of ACME? I spoke with a guy over there that claimed if I'm okay hovering in AL,LA, TX they can keep the bed full from the oil fields!

 

ACME never knew anyone working with them but that idea sounds appealing.