If you're new to the industry and want to know how to get hotshot loads, you're in the right place. Discover the most reliable ways to find cargo fast and keep your truck moving. While there are several options, we’ll show why working with a dispatch service, especially Resolute Logistics, is the smartest, most efficient choice for growing your business.
Why It’s Profitable to Drive Hotshot Loads
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Hot shot trucking offers an ideal mix of speed, flexibility, and high earnings for drivers looking to run lean, independent operations. It’s a smart way to earn a solid income without the heavy expenses tied to full-size rigs.
Here’s why this model continues to attract both new and seasoned drivers:
- Lower Startup Costs
- High Rate-Per-Mile
- Regional and Short-Haul Jobs
- Fuel and Maintenance Savings
- Independent Operation: You can run under your own authority or lease on—either way, you maintain full control over your schedule and growth.
Whether you’re building a side hustle or a full-time operation, this trucking niche provides real opportunities for efficiency and profit. And if you're still asking how to find loads for hotshot, keep reading—the best options are just ahead.
7 Tips for Fast Finding Loads for Hotshot
Securing loads quickly can make or break your bottom line. Below are seven reliable strategies for getting quality freight and staying booked throughout the week.
Tip 1: Use the Dispatch Service
Dispatch services are the fastest, most consistent way to keep your truck full. A dispatch trucking company like Resolute Logistics does the hard work for you—finding high-paying loads, handling paperwork, and coordinating pick-ups and deliveries. This means you drive more and worry less.
Resolute offers more than just load booking. Their dispatchers negotiate directly with brokers to get top rates. They also reduce deadhead miles by lining up return loads, helping you stay on profitable routes. For a small 5% fee, you gain access to experienced logistics professionals who work for you around the clock.
Beyond that, Resolute handles all the admin tasks that slow down drivers—carrier packets, rate confirmations, billing, and more. Their team acts as a true business partner, especially helpful as a hotshot driver navigating a competitive market. You’re assigned a personal dispatcher who understands your routes and equipment and helps plan your schedule efficiently.
Dispatch is the best option if you're looking to maximize income, reduce stress, and stay focused on the road. The value of having a skilled team behind you can’t be overstated.
Tip 2: Browse Load Boards
Load boards are marketplaces where brokers and shippers post freight, and drivers can search by route, weight, or trailer type. Popular boards like DAT and Truckstop let you filter for specific lanes, including hot shot trucking jobs that match your setup.
These platforms are competitive but give you access to thousands of daily postings. Smart use of alerts and filters can help you grab loads quickly. Still, it requires constant monitoring, which is why many drivers combine boards with other methods.
Tip 3: Think About Freight Brokers
Freight brokers act as middlemen between shippers and carriers. They can connect you with one-time or ongoing freight opportunities, especially when you’re just starting out. Building a solid relationship with a broker can lead to regular work and access to haul contracts you might not find elsewhere.
When working with brokers, be ready to negotiate rates. Check their credit history and days-to-pay averages before accepting a load to avoid payment issues.
Tip 4: Don’t Work with One Shipper
It’s risky to rely on a single shipper. If they stop sending freight, your revenue dries up. Instead, build relationships with multiple customers, including brokers and local businesses. This gives you more stability and helps you keep your truck moving, even if one client slows down.
Diversification is key to long-term success in any Non CDL hotshot loads operation. Always be open to new leads and contacts in your area.
Tip 5: Work with the Government
Government contracts can offer long-term, high-paying jobs. Almost every hotshot driver overlooks public sector opportunities, but local and federal agencies often need expedited or short-haul freight services.
Registering with platforms like SAM.gov or your state’s procurement office allows you to bid on these contracts. While the paperwork takes time, securing a regular government lane can be a game-changer.
Tip 6: Keep in Touch
Stay connected to shippers, brokers, and fellow drivers. Referrals, repeat business, and word-of-mouth recommendations are powerful tools. Whether through phone calls, emails, or social media, maintaining relationships helps you stay top-of-mind when someone has a load to move.
This soft networking is especially helpful when establishing a local hotshot loads route, where personal connections often come before formal bids.
Tip 7: Affiliate Programs
Some companies let independent drivers sign on to their fleet under lease or contract programs. For instance, Amazon Relay or third-party logistics companies offer app-based access to loads. These arrangements are ideal for steady work without the hassle of hunting for freight.
You may also find dispatch companies or brokers offering lease-on options that let you haul under their authority. These partnerships can provide stability, especially when you're building your hotshot business from the ground up.
If you are wondering how to get loads for trucks just contact us. We can help your business grow.
Benefits of Working with a Dispatcher
Working with a dispatcher offers multiple benefits beyond just finding freight. A dispatcher takes over time-consuming tasks like paperwork, booking, and broker communication, so you can focus on driving and growing your income.
Dispatchers negotiate better rates, reduce downtime, and help you avoid unpaid miles. Services like Resolute Logistics offer 24/7 support, personalized scheduling, and access to a wide broker network.
Using a dispatcher also increases your chances of securing hotshot trucking jobs before they hit public boards. Their connections and real-time market knowledge are invaluable tools for staying ahead of the competition.
How to Get Local Hotshot Loads
If your goal is to stay closer to home, there are several ways to find local hotshot loads that fit your route. One of the best is using hotshot dispatch services near you that specialize in regional lanes and urgent deliveries.
Local dispatchers and brokers often work directly with area businesses—construction companies, manufacturers, farms, and equipment suppliers. Getting listed with these providers ensures you’re considered for last-minute, high-priority hauls.
You can also monitor load boards with geographic filters, visit local logistics events, or connect with your Chamber of Commerce. The more visible you are in your area, the more likely businesses will reach out when they need a trusted hotshot driver on short notice.
Find Your Next Hotshot Load with Resolute Logistics
Resolute Logistics offers an unmatched level of service for drivers looking to grow. Their team provides end-to-end support: negotiating rates, preparing paperwork, coordinating schedules, and resolving issues.
What makes Resolute different is its driver-first approach. You get a dedicated dispatcher who knows your preferences, runs, and goals. With strong broker connections, they consistently secure top-paying loads without hidden fees or wasted time.
Whether you’re running CDL or Non CDL hotshot loads, Resolute works with both. Their 5% commission model keeps overhead low and profits high. When you want a real partner, not just a service, Resolute is the answer.
