Hot Shot Trucking – Keeping Your Cargo Safe

• Jul 14- 2017

Hot shot trucking is one of the fastest growing segments of the transportation industry. Unlike big rigs that haul large and heavy freight, hot shot drivers often use their personal pickup trucks and vans to deliver smaller items. However, for larger cargo, many drivers now offer hot shot flatbed loads, as well.

When comparing standard shipping costs with hotshot trucking rates, you will find that the latter is the more cost-effective solution in many situations. However, what makes this shipping option so beneficial is that hot shot drivers take goods from one location to another quickly. For this expedited service, drivers deliver things in town, as well as to other cities and states, much faster than traditional shipping.

Although there are many benefits associated with standard and hot shot flatbed loads, you need to consider a few things to ensure that your cargo arrives at the scheduled destination unscathed.

• Experience – When it comes to ensuring the safety of your cargo, experience speaks volumes. You want a hotshot driver who has been providing this type of service for several years.
• Expertise – Because hot shot driving is different from other types of shipping services, it is important to hire someone with expertise. Typically, this comes from experience, but not always. The driver that you hire for your cargo should be proficient in the job, meaning the person follows the rules of the road and the law.
• Customer Reviews – Check reviews or testimonials online to gauge the reliability and professionalism of the driver or hot shot flatbed company that you are hiring. Positive reviews often indicate a strong record of safe, timely deliveries.
• Licensing and Certifications – Verify that the driver possesses the necessary licenses and certifications for hotshot trucking. This ensures they meet the legal requirements and have been trained for safe cargo handling.
• Truck or Van – Regardless if the hotshot driver uses a truck or van, it should be in excellent condition. Just like with any other shipping vehicle, unless a hotshot driver maintains the vehicle, there could be a breakdown along the road, which would delay your cargo from arriving on time. Therefore, never be afraid to ask specific questions about the type of fleet used.
• Protected Cargo – You also need to find out how different drivers in the hotshot trucking industry protect cargo during transport. Obviously, for anything of yours that is potentially breakable, you want assurance that it is wrapped, boxed, or protected in some way to prevent damage.
• Insurance – Make sure the driver that you hire has proper insurance. Even if you have to pay a little extra, it is worth hiring someone who offers replacement value insurance coverage.
• Delivery Timeframes – Confirm that the hotshot driver or company can meet your specific delivery deadlines. Not all hotshot drivers are available around the clock, so ensure that the timeframe aligns with your schedule.

Also Read:  Hot Shot Services – A viable option for time-sensitive freight

• Tracking Capabilities – Ask about tracking options for your cargo. Real-time tracking for hot shot flatbeds can provide peace of mind by allowing you to monitor the shipment’s progress.
• Handling Special Cargos– If your cargo needs specific handling, such as temperature control or fragile-item protocols, ensure the driver or hot shot flatbed company you are hiring, can accommodate these requirements to prevent damage or spoilage during transport.

For the best hot shot trucking services, as well as other shipping solutions, our team at MGA International can help. For information, please visit our website or call us today.