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Hot Shot Trucking Irving Texas

HotShotTrucking.com offers professional hot shot trucking and expedited freight solutions in Irving, Texas, ensuring that urgent shipments are delivered quickly and reliably. This article explores Irving’s economic landscape and how HotShotTrucking.com supports local businesses with fast, flexible transportation – leveraging a nationwide carrier network, dedicated support, and real-time tracking to meet every critical deadline.

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HOT SHOT TRUCKING SERVICES IRVING

Irving, Texas: A Growing Economic Powerhouse with Logistics at its Core

Irving, TX is a vibrant city in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, boasting a diverse and booming economy. Home to more than 240,000 residents, Irving sits in one of America’s fastest-growing regions. The city’s pro-business environment has attracted over 8,500 companies, giving Irving the second-highest number of private and public companies in North Texas. Major Fortune 500 corporations – including the global headquarters of 10 Fortune 500 companies – call Irving “home,” earning it the nickname “Headquarters of Headquarters”. Key industries such as professional services, technology, logistics and distribution, life sciences, aerospace, and manufacturing all have a strong presence here. This dynamic economic base makes Irving a critical hub where goods and services must keep moving swiftly to support business operations.

Irving’s strategic location further reinforces its role in logistics and transportation. Multiple major highways (including SH 183, SH 114, and I-635) crisscross the city and connect it seamlessly to the rest of the Metroplex. In addition, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport lies at Irving’s doorstep, facilitating global commerce and fast cargo connectivity. With such infrastructure, it’s no surprise that logistics and distribution is one of Irving’s leading economic sectors. From warehouses in the industrial districts to freight terminals near the airport, the city is built for movement. Local businesses frequently rely on expedited freight and hot shot trucking to manage just-in-time inventory and rush critical supplies between facilities.

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Add your shipment details below, and one of our professional expeditors will contact you within minutes. For immediate assistance on an urgent quote, call (972) 330-2000 with these details handy.

economy

Irving secured 57 corporate wins worth $190 million, adding 4,700 jobs in FY 2023.

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With 4.5 headquarters per 100k residents, Irving leads all U.S. cities in HQ density.

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DFW’s air-cargo sector injects $20 billion into North Texas each year.

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Over 60 percent of all Texas air cargo moves via DFW, anchoring Irving’s supply-chain ecosystem.

Our Expedited Freight Services Cover a Wide Range of Solutions to Meet Irving’s Urgent Shipping Demands.

KEY BENEFITS

NATIONWIDE NETWORK
SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT
DEDICATED EXPERTISE
REAL-TIME TRACKING

When your Irving business faces an urgent freight need, HotShotTrucking.com responds with speed and precision.

We are backed by a nationwide network of vetted carriers and drivers positioned across the country, allowing us to secure capacity immediately for your critical shipments. Our operations run 24/7/365 – there are no off hours, no downtime, and no compromises on service. That means whether it’s the middle of the night, a weekend, or a holiday, we have logistics experts on standby to spring into action the moment you contact us.

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Irving By the Numbers

54 Fortune 500s

54

Fortune 500s

Irving–Las Colinas hosts 54 Fortune 500 corporations, amplifying demand for agile air shipping.

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18%

Population Growth

The city grew from 216,290 to 256,684 residents in a decade, fueling consumer and industry freight flows.

4.5 HQs per 100k

4.5 HQs

Per 100k

Irving’s HQ density outpaces every major U.S. metro, drawing global supply chains to its doorstep.

Your Trusted Hot Shot Trucking Partner in Irving, TX

Irving’s dynamic economy demands equally dynamic logistics solutions – and HotShotTrucking.com is proud to be a trusted partner keeping Irving’s businesses on the move. We understand the unique needs of the local industries, from the corporate giants headquartered in Las Colinas to the small businesses and suppliers that keep those corporations running. In a single day in Irving, you might find aerospace components being delivered for a critical assembly, high-tech networking gear moving between data centers, and retail products racing to store shelves for a sales event. HotShotTrucking.com is the go-to expedited freight provider that ties all these threads together, ensuring each shipment gets where it needs to be right on time.

Our team has deep experience coordinating urgent shipments for every major sector of Irving’s economy. For example, when an energy company in Irving needs a part delivered to an oilfield in West Texas ASAP, we’ll have a flatbed truck on the road within minutes to haul that equipment directly to the site. If a manufacturing plant in Irving unexpectedly runs out of a key raw material, we can dispatch a box truck to a supplier in Oklahoma or Louisiana and retrieve the inventory the same day to keep the production line running. We’ve even handled complex multi-leg jobs – such as arranging a dedicated truck to pick up an imported machine at DFW Airport and deliver it to an Irving factory door-to-door, with real-time monitoring all the way.

HotShotTrucking.com excels by finding the optimal shipping solution for each situation. Our freight brokers evaluate factors like distance, load size, and urgency to select the right vehicle and route for maximum efficiency. Whether it’s a sprinter van for small packages or a 53-foot trailer for bulkier freight, we ensure you’re not paying for more truck than you need – yet you have all the capacity required to handle your shipment. Importantly, every hot shot load we handle in Irving is a dedicated shipment: your freight isn’t combined with other customers’ cargo. This means the driver goes straight from pickup to delivery with no detours, guaranteeing the fastest possible transit. It also adds an extra layer of security and care for your goods, as there’s minimal handling involved.

Top Industries in Irving

Oil & Gas

Oil & Gas

Pioneer Natural Resources runs its global headquarters from Las Colinas, making Irving a command post for Permian Basin drilling campaigns. When wells go offline, engineers tap same-day air freight Irving solutions—chartering cargo planes packed with drill collars, MWD tools and high-pressure valves straight to Midland–Odessa.

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Construction

Construction

Irving issues roughly $800 million in roadway and vertical-build permits annually, underscoring a booming construction pipeline. Contractors fly in oversized tower-crane components, curtain-wall panels and BIM scanners via air charter services to accelerate project timelines and avoid ground-freight bottlenecks.

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Retail

Retail

Convenience-giant 7-Eleven anchors its corporate HQ in Irving, orchestrating supply to 13,000 stores. The chain relies on next day air lanes for seasonal SKUs, impulse items and high-value electronics, feeding DFW cross-docks for final-mile distribution. Fast-cycle air cargo also powers e-commerce returns, keeping inventory turns—and customer satisfaction—high.

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Aerospace & Defense

Aerospace & Defense

MRO shops clustered around Dallas Love Field and Addison Airport service corporate jets, military trainers and UAVs. A single AOG call can trigger an Irving-origin air charter carrying avionics racks, composite fairings or life-limited parts direct to out-station bases.

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Manufacturing

Engineering-major Fluor Corporation steers global EPC projects from its Irving headquarters. Prototype pumps, PLC racks and additive-manufactured spares move via air freight services to far-flung job sites, where missed milestones can carry six-figure penalties.

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data center

Technology

Irving’s data-center corridor draws hyperscalers and fintech platforms that cannot tolerate delivery slippage. High-density servers, liquid-cooling modules and photonics gear ride next flight-out freight to meet go-live dates, backed by white-glove ground teams for rack-level placement.

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renewable energy

Renewables & Environment

Vistra Corp., America’s largest competitive power generator, is based in Irving and rapidly scaling solar-plus-storage assets. Grid-scale battery packs, SCADA controls and safety blankets arrive via air charter to beat tight interconnection windows and extreme-weather risks.

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hospitality

Hospitality

The Irving Convention Center and dozens of four-star hotels host year-round expos that demand flawless logistics. Event producers fly in gourmet perishables, LED walls and couture décor through DFW and Love Field, using air freight Irving lanes for overnight set-ups.

Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)

Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)

DFW

Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)

Fifth-busiest global hub; handles 60% of Texas air cargo and $20 B economic impact; 24/7 customs.

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DFW Corporate Aviation

DFW Corporate Aviation

DFW Corporate Aviation

Full-service FBO with 11,000 ft runways, crew lounge, U.S. CBP on field, Jet-A & 100LL, after-hours call-out.

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Work with a Dedicated Single Point of Contact in Irving

Shipping with HotShotTrucking.com isn’t just about fast trucks; it’s also about clear communication and peace of mind. To streamline your experience, we assign a dedicated Single Point of Contact to every Irving client. From your very first phone call or quote request, you’ll be connected directly with a seasoned logistics coordinator who will handle all aspects of your shipment. There’s no waiting in a call center queue or repeating your information to different agents – just one knowledgeable contact who knows your freight inside and out.

Your Irving-based expediter will guide you through the booking process, provide updates during transit, and be available to answer questions at any time. Need to check on an ETA or make a last-minute change to delivery instructions? You’ll have their direct line. This consistent, one-on-one communication saves you time and ensures nothing gets lost in translation.

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Hi, I'm Steve

Reach out today and let's solve your urgent shipping needs. I or a member of the team will be with you from start to finish.

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Wherever You Need Us, You'll Find Us

We're proud to serve customers across the United States with custom shipping solutions designed to meet urgent needs. Browse by state to view services in your area.

AREAS WE SERVICE

Alabama

(205) 453-1955

Alabama Alabama

Centered around Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile, Alabama is known for aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing. Its competitive business climate and skilled workforce support efficient operations and long-term investment.

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Alaska Alaska

Alaska’s location supports time-sensitive shipments for oil, fishing, and remote resource development. We offer custom shipping and delivery access through Anchorage, Fairbanks, and coastal hubs.

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Arizona

(623) 252-0101

Arizona Arizona

Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa anchor Arizona’s expanding economy, with strengths in technology, aerospace, and clean energy. A business-friendly environment and consistent population growth attract a range of enterprises.

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Arkansas

(314) 269-1222

Arkansas Arkansas

Little Rock and Fayetteville support Arkansas’s economy, known for its concentration in retail, agriculture, and transportation. The state’s central location and affordable business costs appeal to companies serving national markets.

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California

(323) 648-3500

California California

Explore time-critical shipping coverage across Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and the Central Valley. California leads the nation in technology, entertainment, agriculture, and global trade connections.

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Colorado

(720) 262-8998

Colorado Colorado

Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs contribute to Colorado’s strengths in aerospace, software development, and outdoor recreation. A well-educated population and strong quality of life continue to draw new businesses.

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Connecticut

(203) 936-6655

Connecticut Connecticut

Explore reliable delivery services for finance, insurance, and biotech sectors in Hartford, Stamford, and New Haven. Connecticut’s position between New York and Boston provides direct access to Northeast economic hubs.

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Delaware

(302) 504-6044

Delaware Delaware

Wilmington leads Delaware’s activity in finance, pharmaceuticals, and corporate services. Its streamlined incorporation process and favorable legal framework attract many national and international businesses.

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District of Columbia

(202) 644-8833

dc state icon District of Columbia

Located in the heart of the nation's capital, our Washington, D.C. hub specializes in urgent and highly sensitive shipments. We provide rapid delivery for government contractors and professional services firms, ensuring your cargo arrives securely and on time in this critical market.

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Florida

(786) 231-6700

Florida Florida

Florida’s major metros, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, support thriving sectors like tourism, aerospace, and international trade. The state’s coastal access and tax-friendly policies are major draws for businesses of all sizes.

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Georgia

(678) 288-5005

Georgia Georgia

With Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta as key centers, Georgia is recognized for its contributions to film, manufacturing, and transportation. A well-connected infrastructure and growing tech scene make it a strong option for expansion.

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Hawai Hawaii

Honolulu anchors Hawaii’s economy, which includes tourism, defense, and sustainable agriculture. Its location in the Pacific enables unique access to Asian markets and renewable energy development.

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Idaho Idaho

Boise, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls are central to Idaho’s growing sectors in agriculture, food processing, and tech. A low cost of living and supportive business policies encourage entrepreneurship and relocation.

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Illinois

(773) 966-2800

Illinois Illinois

Statewide shipping access, from Chicago to Springfield, supports manufacturing, agriculture, and related operations. Illinois offers a large talent base and strong connections to both national and global markets.

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Indiana

(317) 800-7222

Indiana Indiana

Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville contribute to Indiana’s manufacturing, life sciences, and agriculture industries. A central U.S. location and stable regulatory environment support long-term business growth.

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Iowa Iowa

Explore reliable shipping and delivery services in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport for agricultural products, insurance documents, and machinery. Iowa combines rural productivity with strong financial and tech sectors.

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Kansas Kansas

Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka anchor Kansas’s industries in aviation, bioscience, and renewable energy. Low operational costs and a central geographic position benefit businesses with national reach.

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Kentucky

(502) 230-4444

Kentucky Kentucky

Learn about custom delivery support for bourbon, healthcare products, and auto parts in Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green. Kentucky’s distribution networks and manufacturing legacy make it ideal for time-sensitive shipping.

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Louisiana

(504) 613-6666

Louisiana Louisiana

New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport shape Louisiana’s focus on energy, shipping, and chemical production. Its access to the Gulf of Mexico and established port infrastructure offer critical trade advantages.

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Maine Maine

Serving Portland, Bangor, and Augusta, we offer delivery options for marine products, healthcare, and specialty goods. Maine offers natural access to Canadian and Atlantic markets along with a strong quality-of-life appeal.

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Maryland

(800) 604-2511

Maryland Maryland

Baltimore, Bethesda, and Frederick contribute to Maryland’s strengths in cybersecurity, biotech, and defense. Its proximity to federal agencies and top research institutions supports innovation and investment.

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Massachusetts

(617) 934-7800

Massachusetts Massachusetts

Supporting urgent deliveries in Boston, Cambridge, and Worcester, we ship pharmaceuticals, higher education, and R&D-driven goods. Massachusetts offers access to top-tier universities and leading-edge innovation hubs.

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Michigan

(313) 887-0577

Michigan Michigan

Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor form the backbone of Michigan’s automotive, mobility, and manufacturing sectors. A deep talent pool and commitment to innovation attract investment in advanced industries.

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Minnesota

(763) 273-5444

Minnesota Minnesota

Explore custom delivery services for medical devices, retail, and food manufacturing across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester. Minnesota combines innovation with a strong corporate presence and a skilled labor force.

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Mississippi

(769) 553-4413

Mississippi Mississippi

Jackson, Gulfport, and Hattiesburg support industries like shipbuilding, agriculture, and manufacturing. Mississippi offers affordable business conditions and strategic access to southern U.S. markets.

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Missouri

(314) 269-1222

Missouri Missouri

Learn about shipping support across St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield for food processing, healthcare products, and life sciences. Missouri’s location and infrastructure support regional delivery and national service coverage.

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Montana

(800) 604-2511

Montana Montana

Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman are central to Montana’s economy, which includes energy, agriculture, and tourism. The state offers wide open space, natural resources, and room for innovative rural development.

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Nebraska

(402) 909-0200

Nebraska Nebraska

Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island support Nebraska’s activity in finance, agriculture, and manufacturing. Its central location and skilled labor force provide dependable conditions for growth.

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Nevada Nevada

Las Vegas, Reno, and Henderson shape Nevada’s economy in hospitality, mining, and clean energy. The state’s tax structure and rapid population growth contribute to ongoing economic momentum.

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New Hampshire

(603) 782-0333

New Hampshire New Hampshire

Manchester, Nashua, and Concord are economic hubs in New Hampshire, supporting healthcare, manufacturing, and tech. The state combines access to Boston markets with a lower tax burden.

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New Jersey

(862) 236-3116

New Jersey New Jersey

Newark, Jersey City, and Princeton support New Jersey’s diverse economy in pharmaceuticals, finance, and logistics. Its proximity to major East Coast metros and deep talent base attract both startups and global firms.

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New Mexico

(505) 886-0622

New Mexico New Mexico

New Mexico’s key cities, including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, help drive energy, aerospace, and scientific research. The state’s open land and national labs support innovation in advanced industries.

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New York

(347) 514-9999

New York New York

New York City, Buffalo, and Albany shape a broad economy in finance, media, and health sciences. With access to global markets and deep institutional resources, New York is a leader in commerce and innovation.

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North Carolina

(919) 800-0339

North Carolina North Carolina

Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham contribute to North Carolina’s leadership in banking, biotech, and manufacturing. A growing talent pool and strong research universities attract long-term investment.

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North Dakota

(701) 212-1922

North Dakota North Dakota

North Dakota’s energy, agriculture, and technology sectors are supported by the state's metro areas, including Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks. Low unemployment and stable growth create a welcoming climate for business development.

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Ohio Ohio

Covering major cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati with tailored shipping solutions and reliable delivery networks. Ohio offers central access to the Midwest with leading industries in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance.

Oklahoma

(405) 445-7505

Oklahoma Oklahoma

Providing custom shipping options throughout Portland, Eugene, and Salem, we deliver advanced tech and sustainable goods. Oregon's economy thrives on innovation in technology, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

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Oregon

Oregon

With Portland at the forefront, Oregon has built a reputation for innovation in green energy, advanced manufacturing, and software. Its commitment to sustainability and quality of life draws both startups and global brands.

Pennsylvania

(215) 989-4444

Pennsylvania Pennsylvania

Supporting urgent deliveries and time-critical shipments includes cities such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg. Pennsylvania connects East Coast markets with strengths in education, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing.

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Rhode Island

(800) 604-2511

Rhode Island Rhode Island

Fast, flexible shipping supports marine products, healthcare, and design goods in Providence, Warwick, and Newport. Rhode Island’s coastal access and dense regional network support creative and technical industries.

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South Carolina

(803) 403-9055

South Carolina South Carolina

Custom shipping and delivery supports auto parts, aerospace components, and industrial goods in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. The state is known for its growing role in advanced manufacturing and exports.

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South Dakota

(701) 212-1922

South Dakota South Dakota

Reliable delivery services operate in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and beyond for agriculture, finance, and light manufacturing. South Dakota attracts business with no corporate income tax and a stable economic environment.

Tennessee

(615) 970-7100

Tennessee Tennessee

Time-critical shipping solutions serve Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville for healthcare, automotive, and music-related goods. Tennessee offers access to key Southern markets with strong infrastructure and workforce programs.

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Texas Texas

Custom shipping solutions for construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, and more support major cities, including Dallas and Austin. Enjoy Texas’ business-friendly climate, no state income tax, and prime location.

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Utah Utah

Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden handle urgent shipments for the tech, finance, and recreation industries. Utah combines rapid economic growth with a skilled, youthful workforce and a strong startup culture.

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Vermont

(800) 604-2511

Vermont Vermont

Burlington and the surrounding areas support efficient delivery services for specialty foods, renewable energy systems, and small-scale manufacturing. Vermont promotes sustainability, community-based business, and green innovation.

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Virginia

(804) 886-3100

Virginia Virginia

Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Arlington offer streamlined shipping and delivery access for defense, cybersecurity, and maritime goods. Virginia’s proximity to D.C. and educated workforce support both public and private sector growth.

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Washington

(206) 673-2900

Washington Washington

Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane provide fast delivery and custom shipping for aerospace parts, tech products, and agricultural exports. Washington combines West Coast market access with a deep culture of innovation.

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West Virginia

(804) 886-3100

West Virginia West Virginia

Charleston, Morgantown, and Huntington offer shipping options for energy, chemical, and forestry-related goods. West Virginia’s natural resources and infrastructure investments support long-term business activity.

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Wisconsin

(414) 973-8000

Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay offer statewide shipping solutions for dairy, heavy equipment, and medical products. Wisconsin is known for its industrial strength and commitment to workforce development.

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Wyoming

(800) 604-2511

Wyoming Wyoming

Cheyenne, Casper, and surrounding regions provide custom shipping support for energy and natural resource projects. Wyoming offers tax advantages and wide-open space for growing operations in mining, ranching, and energy.

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The Right Capacity Is Key to Every Urgent Shipment

Your urgent shipment will be the only freight in the sprinter van, box truck, straight truck, hot shot truck, 53’ dry van, or full flatbed to minimize damage and ensure the shipment goes direct from pickup to delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hot shot trucking?

Hot shot trucking is a type of expedited freight service that moves smaller, time-critical shipments using light- or medium-duty trucks and flatbed trailers. In most cases, a hot shot driver—often an independent owner-operator—uses a heavy-duty one-ton pickup paired with a trailer to deliver urgent freight directly to its destination. These dedicated runs typically serve a single customer and are designed for fast turnaround, often same-day or overnight for regional hauls. As a niche within the trucking industry, hot shot trucking specializes in on-demand less-than-truckload (LTL) freight that requires immediate transport. It’s also known as hot shot delivery or hot shot logistics, emphasizing its role in providing quick, dedicated trucking solutions for urgent shipments.

What is GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)?

GCWR is the maximum allowable total weight of a truck and its attached trailer, including cargo, fuel, passengers—everything. For hot shots, this number is crucial in determining if you need a CDL or not. For example, if your pickup truck and loaded trailer together have a GCWR over 26,000 lbs, you’re in CDL territory.

What is GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)?

GVWR refers to the maximum weight a single vehicle can safely weigh when loaded. Your pickup might have a GVWR (it’s on a door sticker) like 14,000 lbs – which includes the truck itself plus fuel, people, cargo. Trailers also have a GVWR. If a trailer’s GVWR is over 10,000 lbs, it affects CDL requirements even if GCWR is under 26k. Essentially, GVWR is the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vehicle.

What are hot shot loads?

Hot shot loads are the shipments transported by hot shot truckers, typically smaller, time-sensitive freight that doesn’t require a full-size trailer and must be delivered quickly. They can include almost anything—such as pallets of industrial components, a single piece of machinery, construction materials, oilfield equipment, agricultural parts, or plumbing and HVAC supplies—so long as it can fit on a medium-duty truck or trailer. While most hot shot loads fall under less-than-truckload (LTL), they differ from standard LTL in that they are usually hauled directly from pickup to delivery without being consolidated with other freight, ensuring speed and dedicated service.

Is hot shot trucking the same as expedited freight?

Hot shot trucking is closely related to expedited freight—in fact, a hot shot delivery is one type of expedited shipment. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Expedited freight is a broad category covering any shipment moved faster than standard transit times. If a load is prioritized and rushed, it’s expedited—regardless of the mode. This could involve a guaranteed LTL service, a team of semi-truck drivers running nonstop, a cargo van courier, or even air freight. The defining factor is speed. Hot shot trucking, on the other hand, typically refers to expedited ground transport using a pickup-and-trailer or medium-duty truck setup. It’s most often associated with smaller, dedicated loads serving regional or specialized markets. In short, hot shot trucking is a niche within the broader expedited freight world, focusing on urgent shipments that are best handled by smaller, more agile trucks.

Which industries use hot shot trucking services?

Hot shot trucking first emerged in the oil and gas industry, where companies needed a way to rush critical equipment and replacement parts to remote drilling sites to avoid costly downtime. While energy producers still rely heavily on these services, hot shot trucking has expanded into many other sectors. Construction companies use it to deliver building materials, tools, or machinery parts directly to job sites when deadlines can’t wait. Manufacturing and industrial plants depend on hot shots to ship urgent replacement parts or specialized tools that keep production lines running. In agriculture, farmers and equipment suppliers turn to hot shot drivers for time-sensitive deliveries of machinery or repair parts during planting and harvest seasons. Even industries such as automotive, utilities and infrastructure, and emergency response count on hot shot services to provide dedicated, fast transport for smaller, high-priority loads. In short, any business facing a critical-time shipment—where traditional freight schedules aren’t fast enough—can benefit from hot shot trucking to reduce downtime and keep operations on track.

What is UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)?

UCR is an annual registration program that interstate trucking operators (including hot shot carriers) must pay into. It’s a federal mandate administered by states. If you get your own authority, you’ll file UCR each year, paying a fee based on your fleet size. It’s basically a way to fund transportation enforcement – even brokers and freight forwarders register under UCR. (If you’re leased under someone, you typically fall under their UCR.)

What are short-haul exemptions?

This refers to a provision in Hours of Service rules that frees certain local drivers from having to use logs/ELDs, provided they meet specific criteria. For CDL drivers, it’s typically the 150 air-mile short-haul exception – if you stay within a 150 air-mile radius of your work reporting location and finish your duty within 14 hours (returning to the starting location each day), you don’t need to carry logs for those days (your company just keeps a timesheet). For non-CDL drivers, a 150 air-mile radius and 14-hour duty day also applies. Essentially, short-haul drivers can use a timecard system. Many hot shot truckers running local or intrastate runs benefit from this. But the moment you go beyond the radius or extend past the 14 hours, you must use an ELD and log that day.

What is POD (Proof of Delivery)?

POD is documentation that cargo was delivered. In practice, it’s usually a signed Bill of Lading or delivery receipt that the consignee signs (could be on paper or electronic). The POD has details like date, time, location of delivery, and who received it. It’s the confirmation hot shot drivers need to get paid, and it closes the loop for the shipper that the urgent shipment made it. In hot shot scenarios, PODs are often emailed or uploaded immediately after drop-off due to the high-touch service.

What kind of truck do I need for hot shot trucking?

The primary workhorse for hot shot trucking is a heavy-duty pickup truck, most often a one-ton dually with dual rear wheels for added stability and towing strength. Popular models include the Ford F-350/F-450, RAM 3500/4500, and Chevy/GMC 3500HD series. These trucks generally fall into the Class 3 to Class 5 medium-duty category, with GVWRs ranging from about 10,000 to 19,500 pounds. A Class 3 one-ton dually is especially favored for its balance of towing capacity (often 15,000+ lbs), broad availability, and maneuverability—making it ideal for pulling a variety of hot shot trailers on tight deadlines.

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