Hotshot Dispatch Services
Specialized hotshot dispatch for time-sensitive and expedited freight. We connect you with urgent loads that pay premium rates - $1.50-$2.50/mile standard, up to $4.00/mile for expedited runs.
Common Hotshot Freight
Typical loads we find for hotshot carriers
Oil field equipment and machinery
Construction materials and tools
Agricultural equipment and parts
Industrial machinery components
Auto parts and dealership transfers
Emergency/breakdown equipment
Manufacturing parts (just-in-time delivery)
HVAC units and generators
Palletized freight under 16,000 lbs
Best Lanes for Hotshot
High-paying lanes where we consistently find profitable freight
Texas Oil Fields
Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, Houston corridor. Oil/gas equipment, pipe, and machinery. Highest hotshot demand in the country. Rates: $2.00-$3.50/mile.
Oklahoma & Louisiana Energy
OKC, Tulsa, New Orleans, Baton Rouge. Oilfield services and industrial equipment. Steady demand year-round. Rates: $1.75-$2.75/mile.
Midwest Agricultural
Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa. Farm equipment, parts, and seasonal ag freight. Peak during planting and harvest. Rates: $1.50-$2.25/mile.
Southeast Construction
Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Florida. Construction materials and equipment for booming markets. Rates: $1.75-$2.50/mile.
Hotshot Challenges We Solve
Common obstacles for hotshot operators — and how we help you overcome them
⚠️Fuel Costs on Pickup Trucks
The Problem: Heavy-duty pickups get 8-12 MPG when loaded, making fuel a significant expense compared to semi-trucks.
Our Solution: We factor fuel costs into every rate negotiation and target loads that justify the expense. Our dispatchers calculate true cost-per-mile before booking, ensuring you profit on every load.
⚠️Weight Limitations
The Problem: Hotshot rigs max out around 16,000-20,000 lbs, limiting the freight you can haul compared to semi-trucks.
Our Solution: We specialize in finding LTL and partial loads that fit your capacity perfectly. Smaller loads often pay higher per-pound rates, and shippers value the speed and flexibility hotshot provides.
⚠️Wear and Tear on Equipment
The Problem: Pickup trucks pulling heavy loads experience faster wear on transmissions, brakes, and tires than typical use.
Our Solution: We help you target loads within your truck's optimal capacity and build maintenance costs into your rate calculations. Quality loads at fair rates means sustainable operations.
⚠️Finding Consistent Freight
The Problem: Hotshot loads can be sporadic, with feast-or-famine cycles depending on the market.
Our Solution: We have relationships with oil field services, construction companies, and manufacturers who need regular hotshot capacity. We work to build you consistent lanes rather than chasing one-off loads.
Why Choose FF Dispatch for Hotshot
Real benefits that impact your bottom line
Lower Startup Costs
Start with $50,000-80,000 total investment (truck + trailer) vs $150,000+ for a semi. Lower insurance and maintenance costs make hotshot accessible for new operators.
Premium Expedited Rates
Urgent and same-day loads pay $2.50-$4.00/mile. Time-sensitive freight commands premium rates that reward your speed and flexibility.
Flexibility & Home Time
Most hotshot runs are regional (under 500 miles). You can be selective about loads and maintain better work-life balance than OTR trucking.
No CDL Required (Under 26,000 lbs)
Many hotshot setups stay under CDL requirements, opening trucking opportunities without the time and cost of CDL training.
Equipment Requirements
What you need to run hotshot freight successfully
Heavy-duty pickup truck (F-350, Ram 3500, Silverado 3500, or similar)
Gooseneck or bumper-pull trailer (30-40 ft flatbed or dovetail)
Trailer capacity: 16,000-20,000 lbs GVWR typical
Complete chain and binder set
Heavy-duty straps and edge protectors
Tarps for weather protection
DOT authority and MC number (if over 10,001 lbs GVWR)
Commercial auto insurance and cargo coverage
Hotshot Dispatch FAQ
Common questions about hotshot dispatch services
What are typical hotshot rates per mile?+
Do I need a CDL to run hotshot?+
What's the best truck for hotshot?+
How much can I earn with hotshot trucking?+
What's the difference between hotshot and regular trucking?+
Is hotshot trucking profitable in 2026?+
What trailer should I use for hotshot?+
How do I find hotshot loads?+
Ready to Maximize Your Hotshot Revenue?
Join hundreds of hotshot carriers earning more with FF Dispatch
Our Services for Hotshot
Comprehensive dispatch solutions designed for hotshot operators
Load Matching & Negotiation
Better Loads. Better Rates.
Route Planning & Optimization
Less Deadhead. Less Fuel. More Money.
Rate Negotiation Services
We Argue With Brokers So You Don't Have To
Company Formation & Authority
Get Your Authority. Start Hauling.
