From Load Boards To Dispatchers: How To Stay Loaded In Hot Shot Trucking

By Author: 24x7 Freight
Total Articles: 7
Comment this article

If you're in the world of hotshot trucking—or just getting started—you already know one thing: an empty truck means no money. Whether you're an experienced hotshot trucking owner operator or new to the game, staying loaded with good-paying freight is key to growing your income.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find consistent hotshot trucking jobs, use hotshot truck load boards, and decide if working with a dispatcher is right for you. Let’s make sure your truck keeps moving and your pockets stay full.

What Is Hotshot Trucking, and Why It’s Popular

Hotshot trucking is all about hauling smaller, time-sensitive loads using pickup trucks with flatbed or gooseneck trailers. It’s a flexible and profitable option, especially for drivers who want more control over their schedule or prefer shorter hauls.

You’ll often see hotshot drivers delivering:
• Construction materials
• Farm equipment
• Auto parts
• Oilfield tools

Whether you’re looking for hotshot truck driver jobs or running your own business, this type of trucking offers independence ...
... and opportunity.

Why Staying Loaded Matters?
You make money only when you’re hauling loads. Deadhead miles (driving empty) cost you time, fuel, and wear on your truck. That’s why having a plan to stay loaded—every week—is crucial.

Tips to Use Load Boards Efficiently:
• Set alerts for preferred routes or trailer types
• Respond quickly to new loads—they get picked fast
• Always check broker reviews and payment terms
• Look for repeat brokers with consistent loads
• Try to plan a backhaul (a return load) to reduce empty miles

Using a hotshot truck load board daily can help you stay booked and avoid downtime.

Should You Work with a Dispatcher?
If you're a hotshot trucking owner operator handling everything solo, things can get overwhelming—especially if you’re juggling load searches, calls, paperwork, and driving.

That’s where a hotshot dispatch service can help.

What a Dispatcher Can Do for You:
• Find loads based on your truck type and location
• Negotiate better rates with brokers
• Handle all the paperwork (rate confirmations, BOLs, invoicing)
• Help schedule backhauls and reduce deadhead miles
• Keep you consistently booked so you can focus on driving

Most dispatchers charge 5%–10% per load, but the time and stress they save can easily be worth it—especially when you're new or managing long weeks on the road.

Conclusion
In hotshot trucking, your success depends on how well you manage your schedule and load flow. Whether you're using a hotshot truck load board, hiring a dispatcher, or building direct freight relationships, staying loaded consistently is what keeps your business profitable.

If you're a new or experienced hotshot trucking owner operator looking for support, 24x7 Freight is here to help. We specialize in hotshot dispatch services across the USA—connecting truck drivers with quality loads, negotiating top rates, and handling all the back-end paperwork so you can focus on the road.

With 24x7 Freight, you're never driving empty.
Reach out today and let’s keep your truck moving