Hey guys I appreciate the compliments on the video. It hard but I did my best. If anyone out there want true help getting into the hotshot industry and doesn't know where to start. Click this link to schedule an hour phone call with me calendly.com/babylion1hour I'm sure I can help out a lot.
YES. YES. YES. get your own MC number forget leasing on -- own it! Suggestions 1) Self Dispatch. 2) Negotiate rates even with your broker and all of them (you can do that). 3) Start making contact with direct customers who you're interested in doing repeat work with to build up your own clientele 4) For your first six months stay within a 500 mile radius of your home for better CPM. 5) Always stay away from NYC Metro (Northern NJ, NYC, LI and CT) areas if at all possible. Cost of bridge and tolls are ridiculous. I live on Long Island and just a few miles away from where you drop the tanks in Deer Park!! Hope this is helpful. You're learning BL and thanks for sharing !
How much are you taking home after all expenses. I love driving and am planning on doing Uber eats until I get the money to buy a truck and trailer. Im wondering if it’s worth it and how much you take home!
Hey it’s nice to see y’all’s comment. Must have missed it. But hope y’all are doing good out there. I’m about to get caught up on your latest video. You guys are out there grinding it out and I’m at home for a couple weeks. I feel lazy watching y’all. Hope I get to see you out there soon and thanks for the positivity
@@Babylionhotshot Hey there! We are trying…it gets rough sometimes. We have to stay positive and encourage ourselves and others! I hope you get back out there soon.
I just started a Hotshot Business and ur video was amazing in giving me an idea of what to expect. I got my authority and everything but your transparency and honesty is awesome. Keep putting out this kind of content please it's very helpful.
Absolutely USEFUL information and you were very smart to show the spreadsheet rather than the action! Very well explained, very informative. You just helped a 25 year old hot shot understand the industry a whole lot more! Thank you for this, seriously! I appreciate this more than you know. SUBSCRIBED
Thank you for sharing this!! I’m two months into hot shot trucking. I also started out leased onto someone because it was a ton getting started and I felt I needed to just go and recoup as much money as fast as I could because of all the start up cost!! I did that for three weeks and ran into a snag with my insurance and being leased onto another MC. It ended up being a blessing because it forced me to go for it on my own. I’ve been booking my own loads and trying to develop good relationships with the brokers. I’m learning which ones to work with. Been very interesting and stressful but it’s getting easier as I learn. Also I recommend your own MC and CDL. It’ll open doors in the long run. I almost went non cdl and my wife talked me into going for it and it was a good decision because it opened up more loads. Best of luck to you! I know the feeling of being out there in unfamiliar territory! I’m Sissell’s Transport so if you see me out there give me a honk! 😊
Great video. I am starting my own hotshot business. I already registered my LLC I'm just waiting to be active and then getting my DOT and MC. Then dealing with everything else. Already got two F350s and two 40' trailers. I feel very excited since this is completely new to me.
@stevenperez5949 Well, it has been a journey. Good drivers are hard to come by. If you are driving for yourself, then there is no problem, but in my case, I had to hire two drivers, and they took advantage of my inexperienced and stole from me. But we got back again. We still have two trucks and two trailers. Both trucks broke down last month, so it was hard. I got one back running, so that's good. I'm thinking of buying a high-top transit van and doing regional deliveries.
@EMT0210 I’m getting ready to start doing the same thing. I will also be working for myself for at least the 3/5 years to make sure I can afford to hire someone. Don’t over load your self to were you need someone else but at the same time don’t go broke. One truck and trailer and you that’s all you’ll ever need all the money you make will be your and you will money to cover your butt if needed too.
Wow. I thought it would be better than that. I learned early on in my trucking career to "Don't haul to New York!" You may get a good rate going in but loads coming out suck and you got hefty tolls. I've been a semi truck Owner op for a few yrs and for me the best paying loads both front and backhaul seem to be in the midwest & central mid, upper plains, and southeast.
Few things stick out here: the net to you is about $0.55 / mile and your broker is getting about $0.51/mile. So you could double your net by getting rid of the broker. The next issue is the fixed costs. You just list as $1/mile, so your fixed cost are about twice your earnings, but you should show that as the actual amounts. The reason is that your truck payment, insurance, taxes don't change based on miles. So if you do 5K miles or 8K miles in a month, you still pay the same truck/ins/taxes. ----- that means that they aren't a "cost per mile expense, they are a fixed expense. You can break it down like that, but it's far more meaningful if you list the fixed costs as fixed costs and break down the actual costs per mile like fuel. The REAL number you are searching for is the "post break even profit per mile". Example: if you run 2K miles in a month, you might not break even because of the fixed costs and fuel. If you run 4K in a month, you might net $1K, if you run 8K in a month, you might pocket $5K (just making up numbers, but the point is the same. Break out the fixed costs and show the cost for fuel for each job as a start. With the numbers you posted, we don't know if you've accounted for the month of ins/truck payment/etc... or just 2 weeks. Also, it's pretty important for you to know how many miles you need to run in order to break even. Bust out the numbers and I'll explain in greater detail.
not easy to find 3500 truck right now? this channel going to be the best hotshot channel. informative and not just someone talking into the windshield camera jabbering
Hell of a good start man. My only advice is reevaluate your term "profit". For me I consider it an expense up to 2 dollars a mile cause gotta pay for everything now and prepare for the future. Actual profit is when ALL expenses current and future are covered along with salary.
When I start hotshot trucking my truck and trailer will already be paid for thankfully. Based on your numbers I probably could take home $2k a week. The guys I know only run partials in non-mountainous areas and take home $3-4k a week under their own MC tho. You’re off to a great start Bc you’re learning and you’re in PROFIT! Great video
I've looked into this hotshot work. I think there's money to be made but I'll never understand why all the hotshot guys run a crew cab 1 ton. Why not jump up one truck size, regular cab and put a sleeper on it. Dot doesn't recognize a back seat as sleeping space. And why everyone jumps into these jobs with brand new equipment?? You start out completely under water. What's a new f350 dually now? $80k so you could buy a nice international or freightliner mid size truck used for $25k and set up for under $10k and have a great platform that you could run for 10 years. Just do the upkeep and you don't have a $1000 a month payment. Plus you don't destroy a 1 ton every 2 years. You'll always be in the hole because you kill the 1 ton long before you have it paid for. To each their own. Just seems like starting a new business to have such a small profit margin with such huge debt isn't a great plan. I get buying a new trailer. Used ones are too high priced usually. At least new, with proper care it should last for years. But the truck cost is unreal to me.
I totally agree about the older single axle tractors would be a better option, single sleeper and you have a better home to live in.The trucks can go a million miles and you have the power to get down the road. I drove a company truck 24 years, 48 states and Canada, and I always thought about hot shot with a cheap truck and light trailer.
Definitely something I want to do to get out of the construction industry. Honestly I wouldn’t be upset at all taking home that much. I feel the freedom in driving and being semi working for yourself is less stressful then what I’m doing now. My body is feeling it now im construction. Over 10 years already.
A couple of points, always negotiate up when coming to NY city, CT , because of the tolls, and take the Tappan Zee bridge to avoid the dreadful Cross Bronx Expressway If you are leased onto someone aren’t they supposed to cover the cargo insurance and you just take care of the bobtail?
Thx for sharing. I thought about hotshot trucking for myself. I drive a truck for Old Dominion freight. Just realized I make more money for less time without all the overhead. Glad I watched this video.
Hey bud. Thanks for the video! As a new authority here, you NEED to just get yours. its not that hard. And there are plenty of loads on the load boards. don't give away 25% of your business!
I would love to do that but I would be a single axle tractor with sleeper. Maybe when I retire because as a union lineman I make $200,000 + a year with benefits and pension and no headaches. Thanks for the informative video!
I’m a ibew lineman too and watching this trying to find something I can do when times are slow like they are right now. I don’t think this is much of a “side hustle”
Appreciate the break down man, I’m full time military with my cdl a looking for part time trucking job. Had a hot shot job offer come up so I’m doing some research. Definitely subbing
Good to hear man. I appreciate the interest. Ya I did my research before I started too. Just remember when other people say they had a 12k week or something like that, that is without expenses. But you have your CDL so you’ll make more than what I’m making right now and do fine. It’s definitely a good thing to have in your back pocket and I hope to see you out there. Thanks for serving man I appreciate you
That’s not a bad start. You need to get a fuel rewards card to get points at truck stops as you fuel for free showers. You will also learn from your mistakes as you go. Keep up the good work you will get out what you put into Hotshot trucking.
That’s a good idea. I really need to start taking advantage of every edge to trim down my expenses. And ya that’s for sure. It’s no walk in to park. Planning for the long haul over here.
@@Babylionhotshot You can get $.30-$.40 off a gallon at certain truckstops if you get a fuel card…. That could save you anywhere from $20-$50 to fill up and that adds up
Every big truck stop you stop at you should have a card, loves has the best rewards by far. I would also rather spend $20 for a shower, than $80 for a hotel unless i had my boys with me
Man I love the videos I am working on getting an LLC started getting a text doc number and getting my MC number right now to start Don't know where it's going to take me but if you don't jump you never know where you're going to end up
I need to do this with my channel! I try to really show that sometimes you really have to sit for some hours to get the good loads! Love your channel I’m also a TH-camr on the come up!
Just subscribe to your channel. I’ll be watching. If you ever see me out there flag me down. Good luck bro thanks for the compliment too. Imma watch a few of your right now
@@Babylionhotshot I WILL FOR SURE! I wanna get the TH-cam sticker on my trailer soon! I love this community it just seems like a movement!! Both CDL and NON CDL!
Great video! Wish I was a bit younger! But, very interested in what you are sharing. I'm a CDL driver and did some flat bedding years ago. May give this a go if it's feasible for me. Appreciate the help!
Get some Helper Springs for your truck or get it bagged. The Explorer/roofing lifter load on your truck overloaded your truck bed weight wise. Your tongue weight should not exceed your bed load weight maximum and a DOT inspection would have resulted in a ticket. When you trade your truck next time consider a F350 or F450. It is the same diesel drivetrain but the suspension can handle more weight. A F350 is not much more than a F250 but you usually need to order it. Add another 1200 on top of that for a F450. I run 145K miles and trade trucks. I also run F350's as they have a very good trade in on a two to three year old with less than 150K on it as long as it is not the 6.2 gas engine. I have my own authority with the MC#. It is not hard to get. A 10K wench with fairlead and insertable roller to pull stuff on your trailer is part of you basic equipment inventory. Have a receiver welded in so it can be removed easily. Also include a block and tackle for it. Harbor Freight for less than $600. You had 2 HotShot loads that first week. The rest were Less Than Tractor Trailer loads (LTTT). There is a difference even though it is the same equipment you are using to make a living. Set your GPS to avoid toll roads, especially in the the NE. I had a load to NH and the shortest route was 22 hours and 1130 miles. The toll free route was 24 hours and 1190 miles. The toll free saved $110 in tolls
I would do a $1K ride along per week for two weeks to educate the young one on loads/strapping/tarping to increase his experience in the less than tractor trailer loads.
Definitely took a screen shot of that. Ya I wish I had an F-350. But a few for runs and I’ll get bags installed for sure. And a winch. You know you’ll be the first to know when I get a new truck, I’m still working on getting a bed in the back.
Hey man I've seen a couple of your videos and I'm 4 minutes into this one and I gotta say this is some good shit brother. Good intro and then to the excel with some actual numbers. And it occurred to me how valuable this is, like you couldn't go to your tech school and get this kind of knowledge. And I'm like how do I contribute to this. You should srt up a patrion or something man cuase I'd give you five bucks just for this vid. Thanks for putting in the work man.
Hey! I appreciate the love for the video. It was hard to keep track of everything and even harder to see what my profit actually was lol I hadn’t seen real number too much on TH-cam so that why I made it. I just ran for a week under my own MC can I’m about to put out another just because you said you liked it. Hope to see you out there hot shottin it!
I am so happy that I came across your video, because this just gave me more than enough confidence to get out there and do it do you have a great attitude great personality you will definitely reach far and I definitely look forward to watching and learning more from your video have a blessed day. Stay safe.
Hey baby Lion, I really appreciate you uploading this video making us aware of everything you went through including hiring the tow truck guy to take the winch to load the 2020 Ram onto you trailer. I'm on the fence about starting Hot shots keep up the great work. I'll subscribe and continue to follow you. awesome job😎
I live in NJ and i do this, i never go too far, i always come back same day no later than 5pm, i lets say do the "long trip" for 900 or 1k than when i come back i take anything over 300 to pay my diesel and i take home for me like 800 or 900 a day not bad, i have never take one of those over 1k jobs but i get home daily no later than 5pm
I would shop around for a different dispatcher. 25% is way too much. There are guys out there that only take 12-15%. On 2.70 a mile there pocketing .70 a mile. That’s insane.
just saw couple of your videos and subbed to your channel. on process of getting my cdl a and have come across this hot shot trucking and seems like a challenging thing. i like taking on challenges, keeps me motivated and sane...lol. will keep watching your growth bc i know you can make it if you tighten your belt and give time. Thanks for all valuable info! Keep them wheels turning and safe out there!!
Thanks Darwin! Love to hear you are getting your CDL!! Your a step ahead of me. I’ll be getting mine within a couple months so I’ll be hanging on till then. But thanks for the Sub. Hope to see you out there. Let me know how it goes when your out there with the CdL
QUESTION 1: Hey brother couldn't you just use central dispatch and haul cars until you season your MC number? QUESTION 2: I want to buy a truck and trailer out right. How do I get the full rate as in your example? Can you please explain how to be independent enough to make more money? I hope I explained that right. The only load board site I know about is central dispatch. Do you need a broker in this business? I want to get on the road but I don't want someone digging into my pockets. The only people I want to have to pay is the government, gas stations, insurance companies and occasional mechanic.
"Doing what you got to do" is the trap It brings the whole industry down. Just refuse the loads and do something else until they learn the value of what we provide.
remember, leveling up means more costs. Mc, dot, insurance etc.etc. Leasing on, you don't have 90% of the responsibility the company owner has, therefore, you may ultimately make more to start. factor $1500 minimum for insurance payments and then see if it's worth it to be fully self-employed.
Who in there right mind would accept under 2.00 …. This is why the rates are dropping due to people like this that are taking cheap freight 🤦🏼♂️🤦🏼♂️🤦🏼♂️
Now. I know im a little late but if you buy a truck outright (i have a 7.3 super duty ive had it for longer than ive been hotshotting) and my trailer payment is 550 a month 40' , you can get that CPM way down there is no reason it should be anymore than 70 cents per mile if your doing it this way, the carolinas seem to be the hotspot rn stay out of florida ny cali there is almost no money to be made there, starting is always gonna be rough thats how it goes but your first 6 months you should be averaging 6-8k in your pocket every week
I’m considering getting into hotshot trucking. I have a F550 paid for that I got at auction then I put 12k into it to get it top shape planning to sell it but with it costing so much to fix I’m kinda married to it so I figured I’d put a gooseneck hitch and buy a trailer and take off. The licensing I’m not sure about but my question really is how do you get leased on. Who did you call and how easy is that? Thanks if you take the time to answer. Appreciate the videos either way.
This is the lot of a self-employed worker, you are your own master but you also have to take care of everything. Like everything, it has its good and bad sides.
I'd like to hear your recommendation since I'm not truly making a living doing this it's only like a hobby that I need to keep the expense down. To make an even out and pay or costs but I don't want to compete with guys making a living just not fair.
You done it right but for me it would onlyake sense to do non CDL. Most what I do now is ag exempt. And if I take any loads they are local or short haul. I just don't make a living doing this anymore but I still love driving and traveling and I just think I should pay for more fuel tires maintanance and expenses. But I will not compete with any drivers CDL non CDL. As they must make there money for a living I'm not in this to make a living I just enjoy driving my truck and trailer. Thanks for you content. 😃👍
@@johnnyray4309 I’ve got 450k miles on my 17 6.7 Cummins I bought new and I’ve never stayed in a hotel. Slept with the truck on the whole time and never had a issue. Deleted the truck at 100k and still running on the road.
I have a dumb question maybe, if your actual rate per mile is $2 and gas at 6 mpg and gas is $4/gallon or 66 cents per mile, doesn't that take a huge chunk of your profit (not to even mention insurance, tolls, etc)?
Good luck bro. I tired it. But I make more money working at my job then I did on the road. Being leased on. Wasn’t worth it to me being away from family and making that kind of money. And I would bust my ass running everyday. No breaks for a a month. Hope it works out for you. It’s all the little things that add up real quick.
Hi bro, very inspiring vlog, just wondering if I can do that here in Alberta?for now I’m driving car hauling hot shot, in the future I want to get mine but I don’t know where to find load and other requirements..hope you give me idea and appreciate it..thank you and have a safe travels and more loads to come
HELLO dear friend, no you are not stupid , you just got to do what you got to do according to the circumstances and events, however for some people it may sound or look stupid, that's cuz they can sit there and complain all day long, also they may have the means to survive and sit and wait, am with you i would have done what you did, to stay above the water, now plz remember most people will criticize, but that doesn't help at the end they will let you down, anyway am planning on buying my own semi truck and work for my own, however am holding on cuz the fuel uncertainty, and prices on semitractors had skyrocketed already, anyway take care brother you the best a big 🐻 HUG. Love you bro, BLESSINGS!!!😀🌅😀
Can't you have your own MC#s and insurance still be dispatched by someone to get rolling and request 10-20% for them rest you under your authority and insurance?
So calculating your first week you put 3,945 miles thats 789 miles per day, did you include deadhead miles into your total miles driven? If not how many miles ?
Brother, did you rent a trailer at your beginning or you bought one ? I’m starting but 40’ trailers week rentals are almost 1k and idk if I could be profitable with that or not.
Hey Clifton appreciate the comment and ya I have come a long way since then. No way in hell I’d lease on with someone. There’s no money if you lease on with someone. You just have to get your own authority. That’s the only way.
Get a planet fitness membership. It’s only 20 bucks a month and you can use their showers all across America and you might even work out and stay in shape
Really appreciate your honesty on these vids man. Just be careful showing too much. Between the trolls and uncle sam, you might have a bit of a problem with your factoring is all I can say. You actually made 33% less when considering federal and state taxes right? Thats what I thought I heard you say. Rhetorical question.
I do CDL class A work. From my experience Brokers make more than the hauler, do little work, and have no risk. I did not make money until I hauled my own freight. And even then it is not that great for the headaches.
I hear you but just don’t even lease on. I promise you… you will not make money. Do the math. Say you get a two dollar a mile load. They take 30% of gross. That’s 60 cents. You get $1.40. Your cost is $1.20 per mile. Your going to be risking everything for 20 cents. You can change some of those numbers but no matter what it doesn’t favor you. You just read the best advice in the hotshot industry. Bite the bullet and make the phone calls to get loads in the beginning. You will get loads
Thanks for sharing. Definite value in this video. Would you take a moment to explain where you came up with a CPM of $1/mile? Is this an industry average? Thanks in advance.
Ya between fuel, insurance, DEF, tires, oil, truck payment, trailer payment, wear and tear on equipment and truck maintenance. It seems like a dollar a mile is a lot but run the numbers and you’ll be shocked. But if you have been in the game for a bit and insurance is cheaper and you have a paid of truck and trailer it will be about 60-70 cents cost per mile
Have you looked into tow piglet? I saw that on Load Mizer's channel, but that was a two year ago video. Any suggestions for authorities (hotshot) getting dispatched? ANyone.
2 week pay is better than my 19/hr! And im looking to get into this business so thats pretty good, i would take home 1100$ in 2 weeks where you took in 2800$. This is promising for me.
Hey guys I appreciate the compliments on the video. It hard but I did my best. If anyone out there want true help getting into the hotshot industry and doesn't know where to start. Click this link to schedule an hour phone call with me calendly.com/babylion1hour I'm sure I can help out a lot.
YES. YES. YES. get your own MC number forget leasing on -- own it! Suggestions 1) Self Dispatch. 2) Negotiate rates even with your broker and all of them (you can do that). 3) Start making contact with direct customers who you're interested in doing repeat work with to build up your own clientele 4) For your first six months stay within a 500 mile radius of your home for better CPM. 5) Always stay away from NYC Metro (Northern NJ, NYC, LI and CT) areas if at all possible. Cost of bridge and tolls are ridiculous. I live on Long Island and just a few miles away from where you drop the tanks in Deer Park!! Hope this is helpful. You're learning BL and thanks for sharing !
Easier said than done, brokers listed on the apps don't hardly if any deal with new authorities.
How much are you taking home after all expenses. I love driving and am planning on doing Uber eats until I get the money to buy a truck and trailer. Im wondering if it’s worth it and how much you take home!
@@vincentherold2346 food running makes no money
No help at all. The exact way on how not to start your own authority.
What customers should I go after a warehousing or logistics???
Great start! You’re not stupid you’re learning and growing your business.
Hey it’s nice to see y’all’s comment. Must have missed it. But hope y’all are doing good out there. I’m about to get caught up on your latest video. You guys are out there grinding it out and I’m at home for a couple weeks. I feel lazy watching y’all. Hope I get to see you out there soon and thanks for the positivity
@@Babylionhotshot Hey there! We are trying…it gets rough sometimes. We have to stay positive and encourage ourselves and others! I hope you get back out there soon.
I just started a Hotshot Business and ur video was amazing in giving me an idea of what to expect. I got my authority and everything but your transparency and honesty is awesome. Keep putting out this kind of content please it's very helpful.
Absolutely USEFUL information and you were very smart to show the spreadsheet rather than the action! Very well explained, very informative. You just helped a 25 year old hot shot understand the industry a whole lot more! Thank you for this, seriously! I appreciate this more than you know. SUBSCRIBED
Thank you for sharing this!! I’m two months into hot shot trucking. I also started out leased onto someone because it was a ton getting started and I felt I needed to just go and recoup as much money as fast as I could because of all the start up cost!! I did that for three weeks and ran into a snag with my insurance and being leased onto another MC. It ended up being a blessing because it forced me to go for it on my own. I’ve been booking my own loads and trying to develop good relationships with the brokers. I’m learning which ones to work with. Been very interesting and stressful but it’s getting easier as I learn. Also I recommend your own MC and CDL. It’ll open doors in the long run. I almost went non cdl and my wife talked me into going for it and it was a good decision because it opened up more loads. Best of luck to you! I know the feeling of being out there in unfamiliar territory! I’m Sissell’s Transport so if you see me out there give me a honk! 😊
My name is actually Bryan, it shows Shanna because this is my wife’s TH-cam account
How is going Bryan? I am trying to get into it, it is challenging to get people to dispatch a new authority.
@@shannasissell4723 what truck & trailer you using?
@@shannasissell4723 if you ever think about getting a dispatcher to make things easier for you, let me know!
Can you point me out to who to get lease on
Great video. I am starting my own hotshot business. I already registered my LLC I'm just waiting to be active and then getting my DOT and MC. Then dealing with everything else. Already got two F350s and two 40' trailers. I feel very excited since this is completely new to me.
How it it going so far?
How’s it going so far?
@stevenperez5949 Well, it has been a journey. Good drivers are hard to come by. If you are driving for yourself, then there is no problem, but in my case, I had to hire two drivers, and they took advantage of my inexperienced and stole from me. But we got back again. We still have two trucks and two trailers. Both trucks broke down last month, so it was hard. I got one back running, so that's good. I'm thinking of buying a high-top transit van and doing regional deliveries.
@EMT0210 I’m getting ready to start doing the same thing. I will also be working for myself for at least the 3/5 years to make sure I can afford to hire someone. Don’t over load your self to were you need someone else but at the same time don’t go broke. One truck and trailer and you that’s all you’ll ever need all the money you make will be your and you will money to cover your butt if needed too.
Wow. I thought it would be better than that. I learned early on in my trucking career to "Don't haul to New York!" You may get a good rate going in but loads coming out suck and you got hefty tolls. I've been a semi truck Owner op for a few yrs and for me the best paying loads both front and backhaul seem to be in the midwest & central mid, upper plains, and southeast.
Few things stick out here: the net to you is about $0.55 / mile and your broker is getting about $0.51/mile. So you could double your net by getting rid of the broker. The next issue is the fixed costs. You just list as $1/mile, so your fixed cost are about twice your earnings, but you should show that as the actual amounts. The reason is that your truck payment, insurance, taxes don't change based on miles. So if you do 5K miles or 8K miles in a month, you still pay the same truck/ins/taxes. ----- that means that they aren't a "cost per mile expense, they are a fixed expense. You can break it down like that, but it's far more meaningful if you list the fixed costs as fixed costs and break down the actual costs per mile like fuel.
The REAL number you are searching for is the "post break even profit per mile". Example: if you run 2K miles in a month, you might not break even because of the fixed costs and fuel. If you run 4K in a month, you might net $1K, if you run 8K in a month, you might pocket $5K (just making up numbers, but the point is the same.
Break out the fixed costs and show the cost for fuel for each job as a start. With the numbers you posted, we don't know if you've accounted for the month of ins/truck payment/etc... or just 2 weeks.
Also, it's pretty important for you to know how many miles you need to run in order to break even. Bust out the numbers and I'll explain in greater detail.
Glad I found an honest video like this. I'm about to go into the business myself. I'm doing research to see how to get started. Thanks!!!
not easy to find 3500 truck right now? this channel going to be the best hotshot channel. informative and not just someone talking into the windshield camera jabbering
Hell of a good start man. My only advice is reevaluate your term "profit". For me I consider it an expense up to 2 dollars a mile cause gotta pay for everything now and prepare for the future. Actual profit is when ALL expenses current and future are covered along with salary.
When I start hotshot trucking my truck and trailer will already be paid for thankfully.
Based on your numbers I probably could take home $2k a week.
The guys I know only run partials in non-mountainous areas and take home $3-4k a week under their own MC tho. You’re off to a great start Bc you’re learning and you’re in PROFIT! Great video
That’s the secret 🤫 plain states. Cheap fuel, strait roads, high speed limits and no traffic
Great video man, actually looking into hot shot trucking myself thanks for the transparency!!
Me too!
Same here.. started looking at this about 2 yrs ago. Hopefully in 2-3 years I will be doing it!
I've looked into this hotshot work. I think there's money to be made but I'll never understand why all the hotshot guys run a crew cab 1 ton. Why not jump up one truck size, regular cab and put a sleeper on it. Dot doesn't recognize a back seat as sleeping space. And why everyone jumps into these jobs with brand new equipment?? You start out completely under water. What's a new f350 dually now? $80k so you could buy a nice international or freightliner mid size truck used for $25k and set up for under $10k and have a great platform that you could run for 10 years. Just do the upkeep and you don't have a $1000 a month payment. Plus you don't destroy a 1 ton every 2 years. You'll always be in the hole because you kill the 1 ton long before you have it paid for. To each their own. Just seems like starting a new business to have such a small profit margin with such huge debt isn't a great plan. I get buying a new trailer. Used ones are too high priced usually. At least new, with proper care it should last for years. But the truck cost is unreal to me.
I totally agree about the older single axle tractors would be a better option, single sleeper and you have a better home to live in.The trucks can go a million miles and you have the power to get down the road. I drove a company truck 24 years, 48 states and Canada, and I always thought about hot shot with a cheap truck and light trailer.
Definitely something I want to do to get out of the construction industry.
Honestly I wouldn’t be upset at all taking home that much.
I feel the freedom in driving and being semi working for yourself is less stressful then what I’m doing now.
My body is feeling it now im construction. Over 10 years already.
A couple of points, always negotiate up when coming to NY city, CT , because of the tolls, and take the Tappan Zee bridge to avoid the dreadful Cross Bronx Expressway
If you are leased onto someone aren’t they supposed to cover the cargo insurance and you just take care of the bobtail?
Thx for sharing. I thought about hotshot trucking for myself. I drive a truck for Old Dominion freight. Just realized I make more money for less time without all the overhead. Glad I watched this video.
Hey bud. Thanks for the video! As a new authority here, you NEED to just get yours. its not that hard. And there are plenty of loads on the load boards. don't give away 25% of your business!
I would love to do that but I would be a single axle tractor with sleeper. Maybe when I retire because as a union lineman I make $200,000 + a year with benefits and pension and no headaches. Thanks for the informative video!
I’m a ibew lineman too and watching this trying to find something I can do when times are slow like they are right now. I don’t think this is much of a “side hustle”
200k???
Love this channel honest with the people gotta love it
Appreciate the break down man, I’m full time military with my cdl a looking for part time trucking job. Had a hot shot job offer come up so I’m doing some research. Definitely subbing
Good to hear man. I appreciate the interest. Ya I did my research before I started too. Just remember when other people say they had a 12k week or something like that, that is without expenses. But you have your CDL so you’ll make more than what I’m making right now and do fine. It’s definitely a good thing to have in your back pocket and I hope to see you out there. Thanks for serving man I appreciate you
HELLO Sr. Just so you know the co i work for is being hiring part timers, however i don't know where you live, or if you may be able to relocate!!😀
Get a auxiliary tank and fill up at sams or Walmart gas stations. Way cheaper then loves or anything similar
That’s not a bad start. You need to get a fuel rewards card to get points at truck stops as you fuel for free showers. You will also learn from your mistakes as you go. Keep up the good work you will get out what you put into Hotshot trucking.
That’s a good idea. I really need to start taking advantage of every edge to trim down my expenses. And ya that’s for sure. It’s no walk in to park. Planning for the long haul over here.
@@Babylionhotshot You can get $.30-$.40 off a gallon at certain truckstops if you get a fuel card…. That could save you anywhere from $20-$50 to fill up and that adds up
Every big truck stop you stop at you should have a card, loves has the best rewards by far. I would also rather spend $20 for a shower, than $80 for a hotel unless i had my boys with me
Man I love the videos I am working on getting an LLC started getting a text doc number and getting my MC number right now to start Don't know where it's going to take me but if you don't jump you never know where you're going to end up
I need to do this with my channel! I try to really show that sometimes you really have to sit for some hours to get the good loads! Love your channel I’m also a TH-camr on the come up!
Just subscribe to your channel. I’ll be watching. If you ever see me out there flag me down. Good luck bro thanks for the compliment too. Imma watch a few of your right now
@@Babylionhotshot I WILL FOR SURE! I wanna get the TH-cam sticker on my trailer soon! I love this community it just seems like a movement!! Both CDL and NON CDL!
Yes, I watch your channel too and have learned a lot.
Great video! Wish I was a bit younger! But, very interested in what you are sharing. I'm a CDL driver and did some flat bedding years ago. May give this a go if it's feasible for me. Appreciate the help!
Get some Helper Springs for your truck or get it bagged. The Explorer/roofing lifter load on your truck overloaded your truck bed weight wise. Your tongue weight should not exceed your bed load weight maximum and a DOT inspection would have resulted in a ticket. When you trade your truck next time consider a F350 or F450. It is the same diesel drivetrain but the suspension can handle more weight. A F350 is not much more than a F250 but you usually need to order it. Add another 1200 on top of that for a F450. I run 145K miles and trade trucks. I also run F350's as they have a very good trade in on a two to three year old with less than 150K on it as long as it is not the 6.2 gas engine. I have my own authority with the MC#. It is not hard to get.
A 10K wench with fairlead and insertable roller to pull stuff on your trailer is part of you basic equipment inventory. Have a receiver welded in so it can be removed easily. Also include a block and tackle for it. Harbor Freight for less than $600. You had 2 HotShot loads that first week. The rest were Less Than Tractor Trailer loads (LTTT). There is a difference even though it is the same equipment you are using to make a living.
Set your GPS to avoid toll roads, especially in the the NE. I had a load to NH and the shortest route was 22 hours and 1130 miles. The toll free route was 24 hours and 1190 miles. The toll free saved $110 in tolls
I would do a $1K ride along per week for two weeks to educate the young one on loads/strapping/tarping to increase his experience in the less than tractor trailer loads.
Definitely took a screen shot of that. Ya I wish I had an F-350. But a few for runs and I’ll get bags installed for sure. And a winch. You know you’ll be the first to know when I get a new truck, I’m still working on getting a bed in the back.
The 350 is rated for more than the 450 my dude lol!!
@@bryonsusedautos true.. but if he doesn't have a CDL, the bigger the truck the less total load he can carry.
Thanks for this Tony Tsquared. Do you have a channel, ill go and check.
Really getting close to doing hotshot watching every video thanks for all the information
Save up a lot before you do it. I’m dead broke but hoping to start finally recoup some of the money and turn a profit
Thanks for sharing such a transparent view of your experience!
Don't stop Pa I hope do the same as you God bless you man
Was a Oompa Loompa loading the roof thing lol
Hey man I've seen a couple of your videos and I'm 4 minutes into this one and I gotta say this is some good shit brother. Good intro and then to the excel with some actual numbers. And it occurred to me how valuable this is, like you couldn't go to your tech school and get this kind of knowledge. And I'm like how do I contribute to this. You should srt up a patrion or something man cuase I'd give you five bucks just for this vid. Thanks for putting in the work man.
Hey! I appreciate the love for the video. It was hard to keep track of everything and even harder to see what my profit actually was lol I hadn’t seen real number too much on TH-cam so that why I made it. I just ran for a week under my own MC can I’m about to put out another just because you said you liked it. Hope to see you out there hot shottin it!
I am so happy that I came across your video, because this just gave me more than enough confidence to get out there and do it do you have a great attitude great personality you will definitely reach far and I definitely look forward to watching and learning more from your video have a blessed day. Stay safe.
Hey baby Lion, I really appreciate you uploading this video making us aware of everything you went through including hiring the tow truck guy to take the winch to load the 2020 Ram onto you trailer. I'm on the fence about starting Hot shots keep up the great work. I'll subscribe and continue to follow you. awesome job😎
I am considering this, definitely gonna pull the trigger in the couple months just need more research and "How to" cause I'm clueless
I live in NJ and i do this, i never go too far, i always come back same day no later than 5pm, i lets say do the "long trip" for 900 or 1k than when i come back i take anything over 300 to pay my diesel and i take home for me like 800 or 900 a day not bad, i have never take one of those over 1k jobs but i get home daily no later than 5pm
I would shop around for a different dispatcher. 25% is way too much. There are guys out there that only take 12-15%. On 2.70 a mile there pocketing .70 a mile. That’s insane.
Princeton indiana on day 10? Looks like pierston. I live near Henderson so that cool to see lol
I’m looking into hot trucking big time. I’ve got a CDL with a tanker and hazmat endorsement. Looking into getting an F-450 or F-550 with a trailer.
just saw couple of your videos and subbed to your channel. on process of getting my cdl a and have come across this hot shot trucking and seems like a challenging thing. i like taking on challenges, keeps me motivated and sane...lol. will keep watching your growth bc i know you can make it if you tighten your belt and give time. Thanks for all valuable info! Keep them wheels turning and safe out there!!
Thanks Darwin! Love to hear you are getting your CDL!! Your a step ahead of me. I’ll be getting mine within a couple months so I’ll be hanging on till then. But thanks for the Sub. Hope to see you out there. Let me know how it goes when your out there with the CdL
QUESTION 1: Hey brother couldn't you just use central dispatch and haul cars until you season your MC number?
QUESTION 2: I want to buy a truck and trailer out right. How do I get the full rate as in your example? Can you please explain how to be independent enough to make more money? I hope I explained that right. The only load board site I know about is central dispatch. Do you need a broker in this business?
I want to get on the road but I don't want someone digging into my pockets. The only people I want to have to pay is the government, gas stations, insurance companies and occasional mechanic.
"Doing what you got to do" is the trap It brings the whole industry down. Just refuse the loads and do something else until they learn the value of what we provide.
Thats not bad for a lease on rate tbh starting off. And keep in mind when you have your own MC your CPM will be even higher.
This was truly eye opening. I wanna get started and this helped alot
We are looking for Truck Drivers with Trucks. I have a jobs available
remember, leveling up means more costs. Mc, dot, insurance etc.etc. Leasing on, you don't have 90% of the responsibility the company owner has, therefore, you may ultimately make more to start. factor $1500 minimum for insurance payments and then see if it's worth it to be fully self-employed.
Who in there right mind would accept under 2.00 …. This is why the rates are dropping due to people like this that are taking cheap freight 🤦🏼♂️🤦🏼♂️🤦🏼♂️
Now. I know im a little late but if you buy a truck outright (i have a 7.3 super duty ive had it for longer than ive been hotshotting) and my trailer payment is 550 a month 40' , you can get that CPM way down there is no reason it should be anymore than 70 cents per mile if your doing it this way, the carolinas seem to be the hotspot rn stay out of florida ny cali there is almost no money to be made there, starting is always gonna be rough thats how it goes but your first 6 months you should be averaging 6-8k in your pocket every week
Thankx bud
Great job brother I pray that you have much success
I'd still love to drive maybe haul trailers back from Texas occasionally. 🥴
You're awesome brother! best good luck to you
Thanks E.J.
Thanks for taking the time to share your exsperience in the business of Hot shotting !
I’m considering getting into hotshot trucking. I have a F550 paid for that I got at auction then I put 12k into it to get it top shape planning to sell it but with it costing so much to fix I’m kinda married to it so I figured I’d put a gooseneck hitch and buy a trailer and take off. The licensing I’m not sure about but my question really is how do you get leased on. Who did you call and how easy is that? Thanks if you take the time to answer. Appreciate the videos either way.
I’m in North Carolina looking to get started also this year
Where in NC? We are starting the third week in September from NC.
@@theladygunsmith I’m in Bunnlevel NC right next to Fayetteville NC
I seen your truck in Chicago before 😂 funny how I just found you right now keep it up 🔥🔥
Ya make some damn good videos man, thanks,!!!
Your the man Dave!
This is the lot of a self-employed worker, you are your own master but you also have to take care of everything. Like everything, it has its good and bad sides.
I'd like to hear your recommendation since I'm not truly making a living doing this it's only like a hobby that I need to keep the expense down. To make an even out and pay or costs but I don't want to compete with guys making a living just not fair.
You also have to include fuel, truck note, maintenance to get your true number.
I started hauling cars this week. I think there's more money on cars for now. But that could change .
Thank you my man thank you you’re a good man❤❤
Not what everybody tells me lol but for real, thanks for the support im just out here learning and trying just like everyone else
Ford exploder? 6:07. Im kiddin man i know you ment explorer
Drove to NYC from Atlantic city around Christmas and it was like $60 in tolls.
You done it right but for me it would onlyake sense to do non CDL. Most what I do now is ag exempt. And if I take any loads they are local or short haul. I just don't make a living doing this anymore but I still love driving and traveling and I just think I should pay for more fuel tires maintanance and expenses. But I will not compete with any drivers CDL non CDL. As they must make there money for a living I'm not in this to make a living I just enjoy driving my truck and trailer. Thanks for you content. 😃👍
Great video... keep up the good work...!!!!
Excellent video. Can you please advise your dispatcher that you recommend.
Get a loves reward card. So you get free showers. If that’s the only reason your getting a room. Save that money instead.
Ya that’s what people are saying. I didn’t know you can get free showers that way. I’ll definitely be doing that
Idle time for our rigs are devastating to our engines. Save the fuel for the rd.
@@johnnyray4309 I’ve got 450k miles on my 17 6.7 Cummins I bought new and I’ve never stayed in a hotel. Slept with the truck on the whole time and never had a issue. Deleted the truck at 100k and still running on the road.
I also heard that DEF will kill engines. It burns a lot hotter and warps pistons. That's the federal government and their mandated policies at work
Or a planet fitness membership, it ain’t but 22 or so dollars a month and you get to shower wherever in the country. Plus you can work out. Just ideas
Yeah, putting off maintenance is what will do these people in. Turn around time and cost will take their toll.
I have a dumb question maybe, if your actual rate per mile is $2 and gas at 6 mpg and gas is $4/gallon or 66 cents per mile, doesn't that take a huge chunk of your profit (not to even mention insurance, tolls, etc)?
Nice video..just wanted to check, u missed on year end taxes?
well with the amount of money I made and spent in the first year, I won't pay any taxes, there was no profit to report.
I find value in honesty. Thank you!
Great video appreciate the upload!!!
Broe the numbers breakdown was awesome 🤝
10:44 for his final numbers. $2884 profit after driving 5300 miles.
Thanks brother! Good job on the video!
Good luck bro. I tired it. But I make more money working at my job then I did on the road. Being leased on. Wasn’t worth it to me being away from family and making that kind of money. And I would bust my ass running everyday. No breaks for a a month. Hope it works out for you. It’s all the little things that add up real quick.
So are these numbers what you made after paying all of your expenses? Truck payment trailer payment , insurance and fuel?
Hi bro, very inspiring vlog, just wondering if I can do that here in Alberta?for now I’m driving car hauling hot shot, in the future I want to get mine but I don’t know where to find load and other requirements..hope you give me idea and appreciate it..thank you and have a safe travels and more loads to come
DM me on Instagram (Stuart Arnold)
What kind of truck and trailer should I start with? I have an A CDL no restrictions.
HELLO dear friend, no you are not stupid , you just got to do what you got to do according to the circumstances and events, however for some people it may sound or look stupid, that's cuz they can sit there and complain all day long, also they may have the means to survive and sit and wait, am with you i would have done what you did, to stay above the water, now plz remember most people will criticize, but that doesn't help at the end they will let you down, anyway am planning on buying my own semi truck and work for my own, however am holding on cuz the fuel uncertainty, and prices on semitractors had skyrocketed already, anyway take care brother you the best a big 🐻 HUG. Love you bro, BLESSINGS!!!😀🌅😀
Can't you have your own MC#s and insurance still be dispatched by someone to get rolling and request 10-20% for them rest you under your authority and insurance?
So calculating your first week you put 3,945 miles thats 789 miles per day, did you include deadhead miles into your total miles driven? If not how many miles ?
Brother, did you rent a trailer at your beginning or you bought one ? I’m starting but 40’ trailers week rentals are almost 1k and idk if I could be profitable with that or not.
He stated in a previous video he financed it and his payment was about 350$ a month
What income tax rate are you at? Canada is nuts... So out of that 2800 here in Canada, near 30% would have to be put aside each load for taxes.
You need to renegotiate that 25%. I get 74% and insurance, dispatch, and IFTA, are all included.
Hey Clifton appreciate the comment and ya I have come a long way since then. No way in hell I’d lease on with someone. There’s no money if you lease on with someone. You just have to get your own authority. That’s the only way.
@@Babylionhotshotyour own authority?
Get a planet fitness membership. It’s only 20 bucks a month and you can use their showers all across America and you might even work out and stay in shape
I do that now I weld for a living.. just need to hotshot now
Really appreciate your honesty on these vids man. Just be careful showing too much. Between the trolls and uncle sam, you might have a bit of a problem with your factoring is all I can say. You actually made 33% less when considering federal and state taxes right? Thats what I thought I heard you say. Rhetorical question.
I do CDL class A work. From my experience Brokers make more than the hauler, do little work, and have no risk. I did not make money until I hauled my own freight. And even then it is not that great for the headaches.
Any recommendations on who company can I start out with for a brand new dot and MC#’s. I’m out of Jacksonville fl
Also how long do I need to stay lease on until my mc and dot gets old enough for brokers
I hear you but just don’t even lease on. I promise you… you will not make money. Do the math. Say you get a two dollar a mile load. They take 30% of gross. That’s 60 cents. You get $1.40. Your cost is $1.20 per mile. Your going to be risking everything for 20 cents. You can change some of those numbers but no matter what it doesn’t favor you. You just read the best advice in the hotshot industry. Bite the bullet and make the phone calls to get loads in the beginning. You will get loads
Thanks for sharing. Definite value in this video. Would you take a moment to explain where you came up with a CPM of $1/mile? Is this an industry average? Thanks in advance.
Ya between fuel, insurance, DEF, tires, oil, truck payment, trailer payment, wear and tear on equipment and truck maintenance. It seems like a dollar a mile is a lot but run the numbers and you’ll be shocked. But if you have been in the game for a bit and insurance is cheaper and you have a paid of truck and trailer it will be about 60-70 cents cost per mile
Just the diesel is $1 per mile not including the rest of expenses so you make way less then what you calculated
Great job brother and great video!!
Might be a dumb question, but how do one get "leased" by someone?
Thanks for sharing this with us 🤙🏻‼️🥳!
Have you looked into tow piglet? I saw that on Load Mizer's channel, but that was a two year ago video. Any suggestions for authorities (hotshot) getting dispatched? ANyone.
Good info thank you for the video.
2 week pay is better than my 19/hr! And im looking to get into this business so thats pretty good, i would take home 1100$ in 2 weeks where you took in 2800$. This is promising for me.
That’s not really a lot 😢
@@mikelopez4148 but it’s more? Gotta start somewhere
Underrated man keep it up
I wish you the best of luck on future runs. What is a MC number?
An mc would be a good thing except then it raises insurance rates. Plus so I'd have to haul more it's just not like it used to be. B