How Do You Start a Hot Shot Hauling Business?
Hot shot hauling is a specialty trucking business involving quick trips to specific destinations for on-time parcel delivery. Hot shot hauling can be a low-cost alternative to air freight depending on the distance and the time available for delivery. Hot shot hauling is always an option to get a vital part or parcel to a location on Monday that's shipped on Friday. Hot shot hauling is also used regularly by air freight companies when moving a parcel by truck is more reasonable than transporting by plane to a distant distribution hub and then returning on a second flight.
The Best Vehicles for Hot Shot Hauling
Hot shot orders can come in all sizes, from a small box to a large factory machine weighing several tons. Starting a hot shot hauling business means knowing the market and being able to meet the needs of customers. A good plan is to start specializing in specific hot shot orders. Parcels up to a certain size can fit in a medium-sized, 5-ton truck. Then, as business develops, consider larger tractor-trailer rigs for the really big stuff. Also remember that hot shot hauling is an over-the-road business with only a small amount of delivery and pickup time. Determine the most efficient and economical brand of truck to do the job. Large inner-city vans and panel trucks do a good job going from point to point but are not suited for rapid, over-the-road deliveries. Keep this in mind when determining the best truck for the job.
Amount of Money Needed to Start a Hot Shot Hauling Business
The amount of money you'll need to start is the amount you'll need to keep your trucks on the road. Getting the trucks could be a low-cost item, as leasing options allow for very low down payments. Once you have the truck, however, it needs gas and service. Plus, drivers need to be paid and provided whatever per diem charges are needed for day-out/day-return hot shot orders. Calculate the estimated mileage needed for average hot shot order deliveries, and work to always have at least three months of capital available.
Getting Hot Shot Hauling Orders from Customers
The best way to build a reputation in the freight business is to be on time, be responsible for parcels in your possession and be courteous to everyone along the route. A salesperson who can represent your services to potential customers (air freight companies, the post office, larger trucking companies, large distribution companies, etc.) can get the word out about prices and availability, but only getting the job done on time and at a competitive price will bring in the business. Plan on emphasizing with drivers and freight handlers they are all "salespersons" representing the company 100 percent of the time.
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