Hotshot dispatch for owner-operators
Pickup truck and flatbed or gooseneck trailer for smaller, time-sensitive loads.
We find and negotiate hotshot loads on your lanes, coordinate pickups and deliveries, and handle detention, TONU, lumper and paperwork. 5% of the rate con or $250 a week, no contract.
Hotshot
A heavy-duty pickup pulling a flatbed or gooseneck trailer, used for smaller and often urgent loads that don't need a full semi.
Freight it commonly carries
- Equipment and machinery parts
- Construction materials
- Oilfield and agricultural equipment
- Time-sensitive industrial freight
Typical shipments
- A replacement part rushed to a job site
- A small piece of equipment to a dealer
- Building materials to a construction site
Equipment & capacity considerations
- Stay within your truck's and trailer's weight ratings (GVWR and GCWR) and axle ratings.
- A CDL can be required depending on combined weight ratings.
- Securement rules apply just like on a semi flatbed.
- Oversize freight still needs permits.
Common challenges
- Loads that are heavier than listed
- Short-notice pickups with tight deadlines
- Deadhead after one-way urgent runs
How THC dispatch helps
- Find hotshot loads that fit your truck and trailer ratings
- Confirm weight, dimensions and deadlines before booking
- Look for a next load to cut deadhead after delivery
- Coordinate delivery timing with the broker
Check before accepting a load
- Weight against your GVWR, GCWR and axle ratings
- Dimensions and securement needs
- Pickup and delivery deadlines
- Loading and unloading equipment on site
General industry information. Weight, dimensions, permits and endorsements are checked for each load against current rules.
Hotshot dispatch pricing
Same two options for every truck type. You choose.
5%
of the rate confirmation total (linehaul + fuel surcharge)
$250
per week, only for weeks we book at least one load
No contract. Accessorials such as detention, layover, TONU and lumper are not included in the 5%. Compare both options with an example week.
Start hotshot dispatch
A dispatcher contacts you to talk through your lanes and loads. Asking costs nothing.
Hotshot dispatch questions
Do I need a CDL for hotshot trucking?
It depends on the combined weight rating of your truck and trailer and the type of freight. Check FMCSA and your state's rules for your exact setup.
What makes a good hotshot load?
One that fits your weight ratings and deck, pays fairly for the miles including deadhead, and has realistic deadlines. We check those before booking.
How is the dispatch fee calculated?
You choose one: 5% of the rate confirmation total (linehaul + fuel surcharge), or $250 per week, only for weeks we book at least one load. Accessorials such as detention, layover, TONU and lumper are not included in the 5%.
Are loads or rates guaranteed?
No. Load availability, rates, accessorial approvals and payment timing depend on the market, the broker and the agreements for each load.
Who approves each load?
You do. We don't book a load without your OK.