The knowledge is valuable, but I've witnessed CDL drivers that can't back a trailer up to a simple dock in 1 try if their life depended on it. Common sense just isn't so "common" anymore.
I feel that you’ll done a great bro. The knowledge and experience you gained and your goal of moving forward to stepping up to a big truck. Good stuff bro
Crazy how people want to start their own business yet they are unable to google a simple question LMAO.Just ignore the dumb fucks and continue to document your journey.Thanks for sharing!!
Im about to get into hot shots but what conpanies can i get into to get started. I wanted to start getting to work but I need to wait 2 months to get my DOT numbers and stuff. I cant wait that much to work. So ill try going where i use their Dot numbers and dots
Thanks for the transparency, and your common sense approach to helping people think outside the box in order to start a career and move it forward. Obviously there is no fast way to make a dollar without hard work and proper planning. Press on! It will be fun to watch how you make your first Million$$$ and what you do with it.
I gross 1500 a week @ 2400 miles. Take home 1,100 a week working for a company. I’m losing big time. I don’t own any equipment. I’ve been trucking 10yrs and you are right, you will not work anywhere making this kind of money a week lol. I’m glad I ran across your TH-cam channel. I follow truck and travel as well. Love those guys realistic attitudes. Most jump in with MONEY MENTALITY. Your first 1-3 yrs is money going into your equipment to PAY OFF. Love your attitude about the business. 🚛💨💨🤙🏾
Excellent attitude Latoya. Sounds like you've "paid your dues", got that priceless experience. Now is the time to become your own boss, if you're prepared for the extra workload. Don't beat yourself up over $1100 a week, many do half that. But you already know you can double + that. I'm thinking your a do'er, you make things happen. Right ? Then keep banking this information, get started as your own boss using this (valuable) information and you'll be amazed of your success, looking back in a few years. You only get back what you invest in this life. Your attitude is your advantage. Go make this happen. Best of luck to you. Steele, out .....
Grime Busters Pressure Washing Its all about investing in myself and setting myself plus my family as well. Not getting any younger lol. Thanks for the encouragement.
Bro I LOST IT about the bed setup in the back of the truck. HAHAHA OMGOSH!!! Definitely no cure for Dumbass. Keep it going man. Stay safe out there! You have alot of useful tips Austin. Thank you, Very much inspired!!!!
Yes you can sleep in the bed of your truck they have that’s called a quarter camper it’s about the width of your twin size bed if it’s over your exhilarate thought Tank it’s also is in front of your gooseneck mechanism and some of them or even go down to the floor of the little door for access into it so that could be the question the guy was asking or maybe he was just being a dummy and sink can you put a mattress and sleep in the back your truck but there are quarter campers out there that you can use for a hot shot vehicle
You may find brother that you're in the right place and Niche right there with the hot shot because when you get the big truck unless it's new repairs and maintenance tremendous and your scrutiny level it's just doubled or tripled by the. Keeping a fairly new hotshot trailer and truck is the most economical and stress less approached as I examined both sides. But you're young looking forward to make the few mistakes at least you know what your return option is
Nice this has helped. I am from Oklahoma really researching. I 2015 dodge and really been trying to make it running my gym. But I believe before I keep sinking I have to do this to provide for my family. Any more suggestions i am all ears bro. Thank you.
I have scrolled and if this question is answered, I either haven't seen the video where it is covered or I missed it. Since I assume the company you're working with doesn't provide health insurance, where do you go for that?
I REALLY look forward to seeing the compare between hotshoting and semi truck driving. I thought hotshoting would pay better, but maybe I'm wrong. I bought a 1 ton Ford DRW for this but never followed thru because I didn't know about companies that get loads for you. Only question I have is how busy does the company keep you because dead head really sucks and waiting for full loads really sucks. If the company keeps you loaded and busy, that's awesome.
They normally keep me booked out. So I always have 1 load waiting when I get dropped. I uploaded a new video of a full month of pay and expenses if you want some more insight!
@@austinhaynes5127 Thanks, I did watch the other video and thanks for making that. I drove years ago, had CDL, etc... Bought a truck and didn't know about these companies that get the loads for you. Back then, I was hoping for $1/mile and the main focus was cars. I can't wait to find out how this compares to a regular semi driver because I thought the hotshot was a better deal. Part of the numbers was the costs of the truck. I bought a truck outright and installed a new engine, trans, painted it myself, so I would have no truck payment, just the trailer payment. I really want to see how this compares to the pay as a regular truck driver. IMO, it's going to be hard to compare because you still have taxes and at some point, you'll own a pretty nice truck... so going from that to an employee is a hard compare.
As far as sleeping in your truck I wanted to use my excursion 7.3L that's set up as an RV to bumper pull RV's but I was told I needed a gooseneck to work for the company
@@austinhaynes5127 Forgive me I'm learning about hot shot trucking. If your under 26001 do you have to worry about your sleep set up being DOT approved? I have my CDL but if you stick with lighter non CDL loads do you still have to register your truck for commercial use, MC #, IFTA? Would insurance be cheaper? I drive a semi now and thinking about this someday when I retire as a way to travel and work. Work for a few weeks and take a few off.
@@Copper.Cowboy even under 26k you still are a CMV if you are hauling for profit, you will need DOT/mc. But not ifta. Dont worry about your sleeper being dot approved... they dont care where you sleep
Love you're video it gives me motavation I want to haul cars I went to Sheridan Technical College and got my CDL last November but im on probation and they won't let me travel and I haven't been in a truck since 11/2018 I feel like my skills are gone😞
Bro you have alot of patience to deal with some of these common sense questions. Specially when in truth if people just watch and listen to the videos in the first place they could answer their own damn questions. Would be even better yet if they used the damn phone that its literally in their hands to reaserch a little. Good job bud and keep it up.
Freaking awesome man, stepping up into the big trucks. That's my plan too. I can't wait just see the video on what your plans are, hopefully you show what truck you're going into. I can only wish and Hope it's a Pete 379, LOL. Ain't no feeling like Petermobiling!!! Lol.
I wish everyone would just go get their CDL. It’s easy to get and you can go about getting it in several ways that are inexpensive. Really these people need the knowledge that getting a CDL will give them.
These youtube videos pretty much give you everything you need to get your cdl except the experience lol. just need some really good memory to memorize all the shit. the experience makes it so that its not memory anymore but instinct.
While I understand that the pickups when hotshotting get crap fuel economy, I always wonder why that's acceptable. I did hotshot work for a while, and on one load I got 4.5 mpg. 4.5 - that's all. I could have gotten double that in almost any sleeper tractor out there (load was 12,000 lbs and mostly flat). I've been driving with a cdl since 2006, and I marvel at people accepting mid single digit fuel economy... you can drive a decked out 379 and cruise at 80 for fuel economy like that - why then is it acceptable in a pickup weighing less than half what a full class 8 tractor weighs? And less than half the 'size' aerodynamically of same tractor? Where the hell is that fuel going, anyway... always baffles me. Note, this isn't a dig at all, just a situation I think on occassionally. How is it that the pickups just do so poorly vs the larger tractors with such relatively light loads... And with all that said, I'm still thinking of getting back into hotshotting. Lol. :)
@@austinhaynes5127 - o honestly think ots down to engine capacity. These big engines don't have to work as hard with the lighter loads, and can run in the sweet spot more easily. It's like driving an underpowered car - you end up flogging it all the time due to less power, and in the end don't get all that good of fuel economy. Probably the same thing here - while the diesel pickups are *capable* of towing like this, they're not as happy as a big truck towing the same 'light' load. I routinely run with a 45,000 lbs load and am right up under 80,000 gross - and it's nice when I only get 15k or 20k loads. My fuel economy goes up near 8 mpg depending on conditions, where it's just over 7 if I'm fully loaded. The nicest part to me though is being able to climb hills more easily... but I'm pretty sure the fuel economy is from time spent at full/heavy throttle - more time there = more fuel burned.
I thought I heard that you sleep in the back of your crew cab truck and run the engine all night to keep you cool or warm? Would it be better to have a small Honda generator inside the truck bed with either a heater or air conditioner unit inside the truck rather than running the truck engine?
@@othnielmaidaniuc1786 - there IS a section in the green book (fmcsa rule book) on sleeper berth specs. Short version of the hard part for pickups is it MUST be 72 inches long. There is also a width and height requirement, but it's the length that's hard to get in a pickup. I found that out the hard way at the Ft. Collins weigh station in Colorado years ago. Thankfully I lived near there, so they couldn't out of service me. The officer wanted to shut me down when I couldn't produce hotel receipts - he then explained and showed me the section with the reqs. Because I had spent the previous night at home he couldn't shut me down, but he wanted to. By luck (living nearby) I avoided a costly ticket (major log violation), and that mar on my DAC. The moral - what you don't know CAN sometimes hurt you. FMCSA sticks their nose into everything. So make sure on anything you question before you get caught. Hell, I'd advise going in to a weigh station (person vehicle, no trailer) and talking to the officers for info if you have to. They're the ones who enforce the law, and they have to know it to do so. Ask them and learn BEFORE you need to know during an inspection. It'll save you money and time. ;) **edited because autoderp**
Log "off duty" not "sleeper berth" and most of the time you'll be OK. There is always going to be "That Officer" but FMCSA rules say 10 hrs off duty. Doesn't say squat about sleeper.
@@gregbarth9617 - I got *that* officer. He said that the only reason I didn't get a ticket was that my previous night had been spent at home. Otherwise he was going to shut me down for a full restart and ticket me for log violation since I couldn't provide hotel receipts and the truck wasn't acceptable for a sleeper (by the specs in the green book). That said, I wonder if he was just pushing on what he thought was a new driver. And I wonder what the lawyer I would have gotten would have done if I was ticketed... but thankfully that wasn't necessary . I'm just passing on some info for others to consider.
Awesome channel! Love your truck! Also, I didn’t hear anything about the insurance? Does the company you work for pay insurance on your trailer? Or do you pay that on your own?
i was a crew leader as well bro you really inspired me i ran distribution gas line and was good at it but you work alot to make money i am now hotshotting and it is truly a better way to be a boss and do what we love god bless you keep it up
In that example, they are referring to vehicles that are not CMV.. if it is a commercial vehicle with a combined weight rating on the registration of over 26 ,001 you need a class A. I've driven commercially with and without a cdl. I know what you need to be DOT compliant and what is illegal. Thanks tho
Good day Austin, With your video, "real world pay", how many hours do you spend working from Tuesday to Tuesday? I need to know actual working hours and total hours (work and on the road). Thank you sir!
Thanks for letting us know how many hours u really work...Im use to working that many hours already...and that pay definitely justifies the work put in...I'm definitely interested in hot shotting
I’m confused on the cdl part.. If I have a truck with a 10,000 gvw and say I’m about to pull the trigger on a trailer that has a 24000 gvw do I need a cdl. I know the whole 26000 lb but I’m talking empty. I could keep the weight under 26k loaded.. I’m currently non cdl but want to buy a trailer with more gvwr for maybe later.. 14gn vs 22gn bigtex trailers is being shopped..
@@jeffbishop2533 it doesn't matter on weight. Only weight rating. If the truck gvwr is 10,000. You cannot have a trailer that is over 16,000gvwr without a CDL class A
imo i would stick to hotshot , rates are so low its not even worth it the fuel surcharge is a joke try filling up a 300 gallon semi with a 2.00 a mile load . i got 3 looking to sale 2 and a 53 ft spread axle flatbed
I got a guy who gave me a Deposit on it last Week but if you are in need of one check out Utility Trailers some are going for 30k and above 2017 and 2018 models
I just started driving big rigs, I was going to get my experience with big rigs and then go to hot shotting with RV pulls, what was your take on doing that as well was thinking there may be more money envolved. So with you going into driving semi, your still going to run your same game plan with your 3 year payoff on your Ford or do you plan on getting rid of it? What are you goals driving with big rig? Thanks man and good luck on the road. Hope not too many repeat questions
There is a ton more $$ in running a semi vs RV pulling. And as for my Ford. I will keep it to pull my camper around, and I'll still make a higher payment to pay it off early and not be putting miles on it.
When looking for a company to sign on with, what are some things to look for from them, or to stay away from? I guess I’m looking at this from a contract point of view. What type of insurance is needed? Like what does the companies cover and what do you need additionally? Maybe this is just a deeper part of my first question. Thanks in advance!!
Is there a big difference in the amount of work you are getting now with you F350 & CDL compared to when you were driving the dodge and no CDL? Or is it about the same?
Austin, great info - Thank you. You mentioned leasing your trailer. If someone is just starting out, would you suggest leasing due to maintenance and maybe changing trailers after lease or purchasing one outright if you had the means?
Good advice from Austin, but look at the numbers a trailer payment is less than lease payment, BUT all maintenance is out of your pocket..so research trailer manufacturer, get exactly what you want (you'll be pulling it 4-5 years) get a good warranty, and keep up with preventive maintenance.
Bernie G varies state to state here in pa any trailer with a gvwr over 10k is a class a regardless of truck weight. In Our neighboring state NJ, the trailer doesn't matter until the gcvwr is over 26,000. Have been going through the ringer trying to get into this and work for a friend who's in jersey. Have my cdl permits just waiting to get into a class to get the license, working full time and having a few businesses makes it difficult.
+JasonWorksAlot here in California I got into a $700 6 hour class right before I took my test at the DMV on the same day. never had driven a big semi truck before just Dodge truck and trailer. we studied the pre-check hard and knowing your brake and compressor test seem to be instant fail if you miss that. we studied that hard did no more than 3 mile driving in that big rig before my test on the same day. luckily I got the pre check and the brake and compressor test and aced the parallel parking first time. would have been $300 if I had to come back and do it again to rent the companies truck. during the DMV test pay attention every sign you see the tester will ask you what did that sign we just passed say. I just guessed. my reason for the CDL was to haul a trailer weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
REDWOOD no kidding?? It's $5,500 for me and it's a 160 hour course. It's 900 to just take the test with your own equipment but Because my trailer will be a gooseneck I can't test with it has to be a fifth wheel plate and if I take it with a pickup and trailer I'll have air brake restriction, transmission restriction and weight restriction. So it would basically be useless to me aside from the pickup. It's a bit much in my opinion but I understand why it's needed. Take care comrade.
+JasonWorksAlot $900 to take the DMV test for driving.? my entire CDL application to California DMV was about $70 .had to pay that twice since I mistakenly thought I could use my own truck also and I had to reapply and retake the correct written test with air brakes and all including written motorcycle and Class C test written. I contacted Jiffy truck rental in Sacramento California +1-877-254-3397. for $700 they gave me 6 hours of in the truck training but barely drove just studied air brakes and compressor and did pre-trip. knowing the multi step process to check air brakes and compressor is the most important part of your DMV driving test .miss that you fail instantly. we did all this before my 2:00 appointment at the DMV and I use their truck to take the driving test. and they recommended their 6-speed stick so I'm qualified for a standard transmission. very nice trainer and very patient and we went over that air brake test for at least 2 to 4 hours straight. Jiffy truck actually advertises in the back of our CDL handbook which I got from DMV. so is it called a DMV in your state and is $900 the cost for your entire application or is that a separate fee just for the DMV driving test part
Try and stay positive with your videos You may turn folks off. You may want to watch both of your videos back to back because somethings are not as you stated in this video Ignore the dumb comments you are in a good position if you work your page correctly
Some unsolicited shameless plugs: I get alot of my chains and binders and stuff from WWW.truckNtow.com and tarps from MyTee.com after running my F450 for a tad over 180,000 miles I stepped up to a single axle Volvo. Twice the motor (11L) and twice the transmission (12 speed Automatic I-shift) with custom bed, air ride fifth wheel...full size sleeper..Love your videos, some I laugh at, some I kinda disagree with..but not enough to argue about. Keep going, maybe we will see each other out on the road.
Son, ya got burned out in 2 years at your previous job!!?? Most of us get burned out at the 8-10th year. But to each his own. Anyone can have a clickbait video go viral! That has no merit. Lastly, if you’re on CA you most definitely need CDL.
As a side hustle while driving, it seems to me that you could set yourself up with a nice little consulting business, if you could gain the patience to answer some of these boneheaded questions 2 and 3 times before they get it. Believe me, I used to be a teacher. I get the frustration.
The CDL not only allows you to haul pretty much anything but the knowledge you learn from it is what is very good
Absolutely agree. I think if everyone had to learn some of the knowledge that it takes to drive a big truck the roads would be a lot safer place
The knowledge is valuable, but I've witnessed CDL drivers that can't back a trailer up to a simple dock in 1 try if their life depended on it. Common sense just isn't so "common" anymore.
@@austinhaynes5127 how much pay difference from having a CDL to not having a CDL in hot shot ???
I feel that you’ll done a great bro. The knowledge and experience you gained and your goal of moving forward to stepping up to a big truck. Good stuff bro
Crazy how people want to start their own business yet they are unable to google a simple question LMAO.Just ignore the dumb fucks and continue to document your journey.Thanks for sharing!!
Do u go on weight stations? Do u have logbook? How many hours can u drive
Im about to get into hot shots but what conpanies can i get into to get started. I wanted to start getting to work but I need to wait 2 months to get my DOT numbers and stuff. I cant wait that much to work. So ill try going where i use their Dot numbers and dots
Thanks for the transparency, and your common sense approach to helping people think outside the box in order to start a career and move it forward. Obviously there is no fast way to make a dollar without hard work and proper planning. Press on! It will be fun to watch how you make your first Million$$$ and what you do with it.
I found your videos very interesting. Much respect for working hard and getting yourself set up for a good career, not just a job!
Yesss that is awesome how you address the dumb shit questions. Especially when you answer them in your videos. Well said bud
I gross 1500 a week @ 2400 miles. Take home 1,100 a week working for a company. I’m losing big time. I don’t own any equipment. I’ve been trucking 10yrs and you are right, you will not work anywhere making this kind of money a week lol. I’m glad I ran across your TH-cam channel. I follow truck and travel as well. Love those guys realistic attitudes. Most jump in with MONEY MENTALITY. Your first 1-3 yrs is money going into your equipment to PAY OFF. Love your attitude about the business. 🚛💨💨🤙🏾
Excellent attitude Latoya. Sounds like you've "paid your dues", got that priceless experience. Now is the time to become your own boss, if you're prepared for the extra workload.
Don't beat yourself up over $1100 a week, many do half that. But you already know you can double + that. I'm thinking your a do'er, you make things happen. Right ? Then keep banking this information, get started as your own boss using this (valuable) information and you'll be amazed of your success, looking back in a few years.
You only get back what you invest in this life. Your attitude is your advantage. Go make this happen. Best of luck to you.
Steele, out .....
Grime Busters Pressure Washing Its all about investing in myself and setting myself plus my family as well. Not getting any younger lol. Thanks for the encouragement.
Grime Busters Pressure Washing Great comment 👍🏼
Bro I LOST IT about the bed setup in the back of the truck. HAHAHA OMGOSH!!! Definitely no cure for Dumbass. Keep it going man. Stay safe out there! You have alot of useful tips Austin. Thank you, Very much inspired!!!!
Good info that you share with everyone. Thanks for your time.
Where r u leased onto
Yes you can sleep in the bed of your truck they have that’s called a quarter camper it’s about the width of your twin size bed if it’s over your exhilarate thought Tank it’s also is in front of your gooseneck mechanism and some of them or even go down to the floor of the little door for access into it so that could be the question the guy was asking or maybe he was just being a dummy and sink can you put a mattress and sleep in the back your truck but there are quarter campers out there that you can use for a hot shot vehicle
You may find brother that you're in the right place and Niche right there with the hot shot because when you get the big truck unless it's new repairs and maintenance tremendous and your scrutiny level it's just doubled or tripled by the. Keeping a fairly new hotshot trailer and truck is the most economical and stress less approached as I examined both sides.
But you're young looking forward to make the few mistakes at least you know what your return option is
I'll be a company driver. I won't have to cover any maintenance.
Nice this has helped. I am from Oklahoma really researching. I 2015 dodge and really been trying to make it running my gym. But I believe before I keep sinking I have to do this to provide for my family. Any more suggestions i am all ears bro. Thank you.
Maybe the gym isn't lost forever. Maybe it's a dream that you pursue after a trucking career.
I have scrolled and if this question is answered, I either haven't seen the video where it is covered or I missed it.
Since I assume the company you're working with doesn't provide health insurance, where do you go for that?
Hope 18 wheels works well for you. Glad I subscribed, enjoyed your videos
Come to Landstar bro. It’s like hitting the lotto.
What are you making per mile with Landstar, and are they keeping you busy?
You run your own loads through a load board and you haggle with brokers. Mileage is based on load, type of trailer. But it’s usually 2-4$ mile.
I REALLY look forward to seeing the compare between hotshoting and semi truck driving. I thought hotshoting would pay better, but maybe I'm wrong.
I bought a 1 ton Ford DRW for this but never followed thru because I didn't know about companies that get loads for you.
Only question I have is how busy does the company keep you because dead head really sucks and waiting for full loads really sucks. If the company keeps you loaded and busy, that's awesome.
They normally keep me booked out. So I always have 1 load waiting when I get dropped. I uploaded a new video of a full month of pay and expenses if you want some more insight!
@@austinhaynes5127 Thanks, I did watch the other video and thanks for making that. I drove years ago, had CDL, etc... Bought a truck and didn't know about these companies that get the loads for you. Back then, I was hoping for $1/mile and the main focus was cars. I can't wait to find out how this compares to a regular semi driver because I thought the hotshot was a better deal. Part of the numbers was the costs of the truck. I bought a truck outright and installed a new engine, trans, painted it myself, so I would have no truck payment, just the trailer payment. I really want to see how this compares to the pay as a regular truck driver. IMO, it's going to be hard to compare because you still have taxes and at some point, you'll own a pretty nice truck... so going from that to an employee is a hard compare.
As far as sleeping in your truck I wanted to use my excursion 7.3L that's set up as an RV to bumper pull RV's but I was told I needed a gooseneck to work for the company
Sounds like you'll need a different setup then. I removed my back seats and made a frame and put a mattress on top of that so I sleep comfortably
@@austinhaynes5127 Forgive me I'm learning about hot shot trucking. If your under 26001 do you have to worry about your sleep set up being DOT approved?
I have my CDL but if you stick with lighter non CDL loads do you still have to register your truck for commercial use, MC #, IFTA? Would insurance be cheaper?
I drive a semi now and thinking about this someday when I retire as a way to travel and work. Work for a few weeks and take a few off.
@@Copper.Cowboy even under 26k you still are a CMV if you are hauling for profit, you will need DOT/mc. But not ifta. Dont worry about your sleeper being dot approved... they dont care where you sleep
Love you're video it gives me motavation I want to haul cars I went to Sheridan Technical College and got my CDL last November but im on probation and they won't let me travel and I haven't been in a truck since 11/2018 I feel like my skills are gone😞
Hang in there. It's just like riding a bike!
I don't blame u dude for not telling people lol ...id probably wouldn't either
Bro you have alot of patience to deal with some of these common sense questions. Specially when in truth if people just watch and listen to the videos in the first place they could answer their own damn questions. Would be even better yet if they used the damn phone that its literally in their hands to reaserch a little. Good job bud and keep it up.
Awesome video man, lots of great info. I to just got out of a hotshot and getting into a semi. Be safe out there man!
Austin as a semi driver myself and you want to make big money ,eventually get into heavy hauling. Watch Sergio Dratchev/HeavyHaul on UTube.Good luck.
He said he Makes 4-6k a week
Good info thanks man appreciate this video
Freaking awesome man, stepping up into the big trucks. That's my plan too. I can't wait just see the video on what your plans are, hopefully you show what truck you're going into. I can only wish and Hope it's a Pete 379, LOL. Ain't no feeling like Petermobiling!!! Lol.
I wish everyone would just go get their CDL. It’s easy to get and you can go about getting it in several ways that are inexpensive. Really these people need the knowledge that getting a CDL will give them.
These youtube videos pretty much give you everything you need to get your cdl except the experience lol. just need some really good memory to memorize all the shit. the experience makes it so that its not memory anymore but instinct.
@@Lilmiket1000 what is the best inexpensive way to get a CDL bro?
While I understand that the pickups when hotshotting get crap fuel economy, I always wonder why that's acceptable. I did hotshot work for a while, and on one load I got 4.5 mpg. 4.5 - that's all. I could have gotten double that in almost any sleeper tractor out there (load was 12,000 lbs and mostly flat). I've been driving with a cdl since 2006, and I marvel at people accepting mid single digit fuel economy... you can drive a decked out 379 and cruise at 80 for fuel economy like that - why then is it acceptable in a pickup weighing less than half what a full class 8 tractor weighs? And less than half the 'size' aerodynamically of same tractor? Where the hell is that fuel going, anyway... always baffles me.
Note, this isn't a dig at all, just a situation I think on occassionally. How is it that the pickups just do so poorly vs the larger tractors with such relatively light loads... And with all that said, I'm still thinking of getting back into hotshotting. Lol. :)
Idk how semis get better then hotshots sometimes. The worst I'll ever get is about 6.5mpg. And that's pulling a shipping container on a windy day
@@austinhaynes5127 - o honestly think ots down to engine capacity. These big engines don't have to work as hard with the lighter loads, and can run in the sweet spot more easily. It's like driving an underpowered car - you end up flogging it all the time due to less power, and in the end don't get all that good of fuel economy. Probably the same thing here - while the diesel pickups are *capable* of towing like this, they're not as happy as a big truck towing the same 'light' load. I routinely run with a 45,000 lbs load and am right up under 80,000 gross - and it's nice when I only get 15k or 20k loads. My fuel economy goes up near 8 mpg depending on conditions, where it's just over 7 if I'm fully loaded. The nicest part to me though is being able to climb hills more easily... but I'm pretty sure the fuel economy is from time spent at full/heavy throttle - more time there = more fuel burned.
Great insights, thanks so much for your time and consideration in your content. God keep you and your family safe on and off the road 🤘
I thought I heard that you sleep in the back of your crew cab truck and run the engine all night to keep you cool or warm? Would it be better to have a small Honda generator inside the truck bed with either a heater or air conditioner unit inside the truck rather than running the truck engine?
Similar question... I thought the rules and regulations don't allow for sleeping in the truck. Please enlighten me as I'm quite curious.
@@othnielmaidaniuc1786 - there IS a section in the green book (fmcsa rule book) on sleeper berth specs. Short version of the hard part for pickups is it MUST be 72 inches long. There is also a width and height requirement, but it's the length that's hard to get in a pickup.
I found that out the hard way at the Ft. Collins weigh station in Colorado years ago. Thankfully I lived near there, so they couldn't out of service me. The officer wanted to shut me down when I couldn't produce hotel receipts - he then explained and showed me the section with the reqs. Because I had spent the previous night at home he couldn't shut me down, but he wanted to. By luck (living nearby) I avoided a costly ticket (major log violation), and that mar on my DAC.
The moral - what you don't know CAN sometimes hurt you. FMCSA sticks their nose into everything. So make sure on anything you question before you get caught. Hell, I'd advise going in to a weigh station (person vehicle, no trailer) and talking to the officers for info if you have to. They're the ones who enforce the law, and they have to know it to do so. Ask them and learn BEFORE you need to know during an inspection. It'll save you money and time. ;)
**edited because autoderp**
Log "off duty" not "sleeper berth" and most of the time you'll be OK. There is always going to be "That Officer" but FMCSA rules say 10 hrs off duty. Doesn't say squat about sleeper.
@@gregbarth9617 - I got *that* officer. He said that the only reason I didn't get a ticket was that my previous night had been spent at home. Otherwise he was going to shut me down for a full restart and ticket me for log violation since I couldn't provide hotel receipts and the truck wasn't acceptable for a sleeper (by the specs in the green book).
That said, I wonder if he was just pushing on what he thought was a new driver. And I wonder what the lawyer I would have gotten would have done if I was ticketed... but thankfully that wasn't necessary .
I'm just passing on some info for others to consider.
ha! that disclaimer was priceless
thanks for sharing your process!
Awesome channel! Love your truck! Also, I didn’t hear anything about the insurance? Does the company you work for pay insurance on your trailer? Or do you pay that on your own?
No they don't. He covers that in another video.
How do i start hotshot trucking? Haha just kidding. Good video bro.
37 years driving big trucks.good for you,but it will make you old fast over the years.
i was a crew leader as well bro you really inspired me i ran distribution gas line and was good at it but you work alot to make money i am now hotshotting and it is truly a better way to be a boss and do what we love god bless you keep it up
its not the rating of your equipment that determines if you need CDL in the gross weight
Yes, it's the rating. If you have a truck and trailer that only weigh 20k but the tags of both combined total more the 26,001. You need a cdl
@@austinhaynes5127 Part 383
Section § 383.5: Definitions. FCmSA question 6
In that example, they are referring to vehicles that are not CMV.. if it is a commercial vehicle with a combined weight rating on the registration of over 26 ,001 you need a class A. I've driven commercially with and without a cdl. I know what you need to be DOT compliant and what is illegal. Thanks tho
@@austinhaynes5127 I have one but i dont run IFTA.It say Tractor and alot of DOT have no idea
@@austinhaynes5127 do you know where it is in the regulations i would like to read it
Good day Austin,
With your video, "real world pay", how many hours do you spend working from Tuesday to Tuesday? I need to know actual working hours and total hours (work and on the road).
Thank you sir!
Typically I do 50-60 working hours a week
Thanks for letting us know how many hours u really work...Im use to working that many hours already...and that pay definitely justifies the work put in...I'm definitely interested in hot shotting
Thank you Austin!
Maybe do a video on the hours worked? Your videos have me interested in Hotshot as well.
Thanks again,
I’m confused on the cdl part.. If I have a truck with a 10,000 gvw and say I’m about to pull the trigger on a trailer that has a 24000 gvw do I need a cdl. I know the whole 26000 lb but I’m talking empty. I could keep the weight under 26k loaded.. I’m currently non cdl but want to buy a trailer with more gvwr for maybe later.. 14gn vs 22gn bigtex trailers is being shopped..
I think I understand. I need to buy the smaller trailer based on weight rating
@@jeffbishop2533 it doesn't matter on weight. Only weight rating. If the truck gvwr is 10,000. You cannot have a trailer that is over 16,000gvwr without a CDL class A
How do you get buy hook for the truck make it work for a trailer?
It's awesome to see your channel grow so fast. We are pretty excited to see what you do with semis
-Cinnamon and Darrick
I head down to my new company's headquarters tomorrow and will be there for 2 weeks! It's pretty exciting stuff! Thank you guys!
imo i would stick to hotshot , rates are so low its not even worth it the fuel surcharge is a joke try filling up a 300 gallon semi with a 2.00 a mile load . i got 3 looking to sale 2 and a 53 ft spread axle flatbed
How much is the flatbed?
I got a guy who gave me a Deposit on it last Week but if you are in need of one check out Utility Trailers some are going for 30k and above 2017 and 2018 models
LOL... “I deleted my Dodge”...
Hey bro good video, I see you workout and I like to workout too, particularly lifting weight so how do you if you are out for 2 weeks at a time
I stop at planet fitness that is along my route. I workout and shower there
I just started driving big rigs, I was going to get my experience with big rigs and then go to hot shotting with RV pulls, what was your take on doing that as well was thinking there may be more money envolved. So with you going into driving semi, your still going to run your same game plan with your 3 year payoff on your Ford or do you plan on getting rid of it? What are you goals driving with big rig? Thanks man and good luck on the road. Hope not too many repeat questions
There is a ton more $$ in running a semi vs RV pulling. And as for my Ford. I will keep it to pull my camper around, and I'll still make a higher payment to pay it off early and not be putting miles on it.
Pulling RVs involves a lot of empty miles (unpaid) look into it long & hard before you do it..
@@gregbarth9617 I went ahead and got my CDL and I'm driving solo OTR driving a big rig. I'm loving it so far.
Can you start hot shot with a older truck? Ex one that has had a lot of maintenance and kept running in good condition
You can hotshot with any truck that passes a DOT Inspection.
When looking for a company to sign on with, what are some things to look for from them, or to stay away from? I guess I’m looking at this from a contract point of view.
What type of insurance is needed? Like what does the companies cover and what do you need additionally? Maybe this is just a deeper part of my first question. Thanks in advance!!
Thank you for the info. I wish you well.
Is there a big difference in the amount of work you are getting now with you F350 & CDL compared to when you were driving the dodge and no CDL? Or is it about the same?
Do u pay insurance on the trailer too?
Nope. The company covers everything for the 5% that I mentioned!
Love the informative video! Was wondering if you could probably be a little more irritated and condescending in your next one? Thanks!!
cyclo212 Lol, he’ll learn to filter out the majority of the people who have no clue or real world experience that make up a big part of TH-cam.
😂😂😂😂you're horrible
My thoughts exactly. I have a question: how tf does this pissy attitude person have over 35k subs? I'm unsubbing after watching this video.
Congrats bro. Don't let naysayers bother you. Just laugh it off. You have your own plan and getting it done. Not a lot of people understand that.
Austin, great info - Thank you. You mentioned leasing your trailer. If someone is just starting out, would you suggest leasing due to maintenance and maybe changing trailers after lease or purchasing one outright if you had the means?
I would lease, that way you can see if you'll like it. And if its something you'll do long term before buying one
Good advice from Austin, but look at the numbers a trailer payment is less than lease payment, BUT all maintenance is out of your pocket..so research trailer manufacturer, get exactly what you want (you'll be pulling it 4-5 years) get a good warranty, and keep up with preventive maintenance.
Austin are you independent, we own a hot shot business and looking for drivers to add to our team
Yes I'm owner OP. Feel free to email me at austinh5127@gmail.com
Are you still looking for drivers?
What up man keep doing what u do
Like the video just subscribed, if you ever need advice with big Rig hit me up, got few good tips. Be safe and keep up the videos.
Thank you! I will keep that in mind for sure!
The word you are looking for is “SAW” not “SEEN”
I thought commercial non-CDL drivers are limited to 10,000 GCWR trailer limited, and that it's not just the GCVWR of 26,000 lbs?
Bernie G varies state to state here in pa any trailer with a gvwr over 10k is a class a regardless of truck weight. In Our neighboring state NJ, the trailer doesn't matter until the gcvwr is over 26,000. Have been going through the ringer trying to get into this and work for a friend who's in jersey. Have my cdl permits just waiting to get into a class to get the license, working full time and having a few businesses makes it difficult.
+JasonWorksAlot here in California I got into a $700 6 hour class right before I took my test at the DMV on the same day. never had driven a big semi truck before just Dodge truck and trailer. we studied the pre-check hard and knowing your brake and compressor test seem to be instant fail if you miss that. we studied that hard did no more than 3 mile driving in that big rig before my test on the same day. luckily I got the pre check and the brake and compressor test and aced the parallel parking first time. would have been $300 if I had to come back and do it again to rent the companies truck. during the DMV test pay attention every sign you see the tester will ask you what did that sign we just passed say. I just guessed. my reason for the CDL was to haul a trailer weighing more than 10,000 pounds.
here in California you need a CDL if your trailer weighs more than 10,000 pounds or even if you have a trailer rated at more than 10,000 pounds.
REDWOOD no kidding?? It's $5,500 for me and it's a 160 hour course. It's 900 to just take the test with your own equipment but Because my trailer will be a gooseneck I can't test with it has to be a fifth wheel plate and if I take it with a pickup and trailer I'll have air brake restriction, transmission restriction and weight restriction. So it would basically be useless to me aside from the pickup. It's a bit much in my opinion but I understand why it's needed. Take care comrade.
+JasonWorksAlot $900 to take the DMV test for driving.? my entire CDL application to California DMV was about $70 .had to pay that twice since I mistakenly thought I could use my own truck also and I had to reapply and retake the correct written test with air brakes and all including written motorcycle and Class C test written. I contacted Jiffy truck rental in Sacramento California +1-877-254-3397. for $700 they gave me 6 hours of in the truck training but barely drove just studied air brakes and compressor and did pre-trip. knowing the multi step process to check air brakes and compressor is the most important part of your DMV driving test .miss that you fail instantly. we did all this before my 2:00 appointment at the DMV and I use their truck to take the driving test. and they recommended their 6-speed stick so I'm qualified for a standard transmission. very nice trainer and very patient and we went over that air brake test for at least 2 to 4 hours straight. Jiffy truck actually advertises in the back of our CDL handbook which I got from DMV. so is it called a DMV in your state and is $900 the cost for your entire application or is that a separate fee just for the DMV driving test part
Do you have to run a log book?
Yes
Great video trucker, btw, sleep is over rated.
20% is too damn High, and you pay for your own insurance and trailer! 25% should cover trailer usage, insurances and broker fee. Smh
Try and stay positive with your videos
You may turn folks off.
You may want to watch both of your videos back to back because somethings are not as you stated in this video
Ignore the dumb comments you are in a good position if you work your page correctly
Andrew Smith ńnn
Damn no more trucks
Is this overnight run? Or you can run day shift..
I run 5 days a week. All across the lower 48 states. I dont run dedicated
Some unsolicited shameless plugs: I get alot of my chains and binders and stuff from WWW.truckNtow.com and tarps from MyTee.com after running my F450 for a tad over 180,000 miles I stepped up to a single axle Volvo. Twice the motor (11L) and twice the transmission (12 speed Automatic I-shift) with custom bed, air ride fifth wheel...full size sleeper..Love your videos, some I laugh at, some I kinda disagree with..but not enough to argue about. Keep going, maybe we will see each other out on the road.
Do you ever come north to MN, WI area?
Yes I do.
@@austinhaynes5127 I could use some help moving freight up north here. Would you be interested? My freight is outdoor wood stoves.
@@jessiekirschenman2493 I'm busy for the next 2 weeks training with my new company. So I wont be able to.
@@austinhaynes5127 This is a year round deal.
@@jessiekirschenman2493 email me. Austinh5127@gmail.com
First comment too! Woo! Boy do I feel special. Haha
What is the age limit to do hotshotting?
You have to be 21 to run a CMV across state lines. So 21 would be the age limit
austin haynes okay thank you
I'm sure this question has been asked, but who do you hotshot for?
Lol, you sound like me with the zero tolerance for stupidity.
I did not see the video of you bake seat / bad would like to see haw you did yours I like you load videos
Son, ya got burned out in 2 years at your previous job!!?? Most of us get burned out at the 8-10th year. But to each his own. Anyone can have a clickbait video go viral! That has no merit.
Lastly, if you’re on CA you most definitely need CDL.
I’d like to talk to you. Are you on Facebook? Or how could I get in touch with you?
I'm not on Facebook. You can email me at austinh5127@gmail.com
austin haynes I sent you an email
As a side hustle while driving, it seems to me that you could set yourself up with a nice little consulting business, if you could gain the patience to answer some of these boneheaded questions 2 and 3 times before they get it.
Believe me, I used to be a teacher. I get the frustration.
Click bait titles are never appreciated! Don’t watch!
Your. Miss. Informed. On. Cdl. Any. Trailer. Over. 10000. Lbs. Needs. A. Class. A. Cdl.
Not true. That law only applies to very few select states.
Md va. Pa nj. Ny. Mass. Class a
You’re* Don’t try to correct someone if you don’t come correct.
In ny it’s a class B on trailers over 10,000 lbs
Come. To. Maryland. U. Find. Out. When. Dot. Stops. U.