Hot Shot
Go from Pickup to Paycheck. We handle the DOT/MC Authority, state-specific permits, and broker-ready packets for Hot Shot setups.
Start Your Hot Shot Business
With Confidence.
Expedited open-deck freight is a fast-moving market. Whether you plan to haul machinery, industrial parts, or vehicles, we help you secure your operating credentials to go to work.
Already have your equipment? Great! Let’s get it registered, compliant, and earning.
Looking for the right equipment? These are our recommended configurations to get the most out of your rig.
The Equipment Blueprints
Truck: 3/4-ton pickup with a 10,000 lb GVWR.
Trailer: 14,000 lb or 16,000 lb GVWR Gooseneck flatbed.
Trailer Length: 33 to 40 feet with mega-ramps.
Payload Capacity: Around 8,000 to 10,000 lbs for cargo.
Truck: 1-ton or Class 4/5 Dually with a 14,000 lb to 19,500 lb GVWR.
Trailer: 22,000 lb to 25,900 lb GVWR heavy-duty Gooseneck (10k or 12k axles).
Total GCWR: Usually sits between 33,000 and 44,000 lbs total combined rating.
Trailer Length: 40 feet, with 5-foot self-cleaning dovetail or flat mega-ramps.
Payload Capacity: Aim to legally handle 15,000 to 20,000 lbs of cargo.
How CarrierForge Streamlines Your Launch
Creating a free account unlocks a personalized dashboard built to guide you step-by-step through the process of getting operational.
Custom Setup Wizard
Select your state and equipment in minutes. We generate a custom compliance roadmap built for your specific hot shot setup.
Step by Step Roadmap
Track your exact timeline. Follow our guided operational steps so you always know what insurance, filing, or corporate milestone is next.
Transparent Quotes
Review your costs cleanly. Get an itemized breakdown of mandatory state and federal fees upfront with zero hidden margins.
Ready to Build Your Hot Shot Business with a Veteran in Your Corner?
Set up your profile in a few minutes. Access your custom hot shot roadmap, view business planning estimators, and secure your filings cleanly.
What our clients say
Over 2,400 hot shot operators have used CarrierForge to get legally operating and earning.
"I highly recommend CarrierForge to anyone looking to get into trucking. They make the process seamless. From filing for authorities to educating you to the regulations of the industry, and even connecting you with companies and services that can benefit your business. 5 stars is an understatement."
"They helped me with everything I needed to get started from creating my company name and getting my LLC … I have been out on the road making deliveries for other companies, I passed my first DOT Inspection, so everything is going great. If you are looking for a great company to have in your corner, CarrierForge is the way to go."
"Excellent customer service and quick to respond, efficient, friendly and price competitive. If you are in the transportation and logistics business and you need to set up a company, they will take you through the entire process hassle free. I greatly recommend their services."
Explore our full suite of guides & resources
Starting a trucking business involves LLC formation, DOT compliance, planning operating costs, and finding equipment. Check out our comprehensive guides to help you scale successfully.