Understanding Hot Shot and LTL Shipping

While rooted in the same industry, hot shot trucking services and LTL shipping services distinguish themselves through unique operational approaches. LTL shipping, a specialty of numerous logistics providers, caters to transporting smaller load sizes, optimizing space and cost for businesses with less-than-full-load needs. Conversely, hot shot trucking is defined by its rapid delivery model, specializing in urgent shipments that require swift, dedicated transport.

The Demand for Flexibility and Speed

The evolving logistics landscape demands unparalleled flexibility and speed, catering to varied shipping volumes and urgency. Thanks to its adaptability and flexible scheduling, LTL shipping emerges as a cost-effective solution for businesses without the need for full-load services. This adaptability makes LTL an attractive option for optimizing supply chain efficiency. However, in scenarios where time is of the essence, hot shot trucking becomes the go-to, offering expedited shipping services that keep businesses moving without delay.

Embracing Sustainability and Smart Technology

As we navigate the future of logistics, MGA International leads with a commitment to sustainability and the adoption of innovative technology. Our approach extends beyond efficient transportation, incorporating renewable energy sources and sustainable materials into our operations. This commitment is complemented by our investment in blockchain technology for enhanced security and transparency, ensuring every step we take is a stride towards a greener, more reliable future.

Your Trusted Partner in Dynamic Logistics Solutions

MGA International stands at the forefront in the swiftly evolving digital marketplace. Our proactive approach enables us to navigate potential challenges seamlessly, ensuring our solutions not only meet but surpass the expectations of our partners and their consumers. With MGA International, you’re choosing a partner dedicated to redefining the logistics landscape, making every shipment faster, smarter, and greener.

Elevate Your Shipping Experience with MGA International

Whether your shipping needs demand the speed of hot shot services or the efficiency LTL trucking companies provide, MGA International Logistics is equipped to deliver. Tailored to your unique requirements, our expansive network and expertise in LTL volume consolidation provide a spectrum of shipping options across North America. Our commitment to excellence ensures every shipment is handled with precision, guaranteeing customer satisfaction at every turn. Discover the MGA difference today—contact us for a quote and elevate your shipping experience to new heights.

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The Historical Roots of Hot Shot Trucking

Well before the invention of automobiles, freight had to be moved, but the only option at that time was horse-drawn “vehicles” and trains. Thanks to the introduction of interstate highways starting in the late 1950s, the trucking industry skyrocketed. Just 10 years later, hot shot loads came to fruition.

Initially, it was common to find pickup truck drivers waiting outside of oil part manufacturing companies looking for consistent loads that paid good money. Although hot shot drivers faced challenges when the oil parts industry took a hit, they are in high demand today. Among the various trucking transportation options available, hot shot loads for pickups have experienced tremendous growth.

Hot Shot Trucking Today: Flexibility and Efficiency

Keep in mind that while there are similarities between expedited loads and hot shot loads, there are also key differences. With both, time-sensitive freight is transported from point A to point B. However, while expedited transportation uses straight trucks and vans, hot shots use pickup trucks. In other words, hot shot loads for pickups are just that, loads delivered by a medium-duty or 1-ton truck pulling a trailer.

Hot shot drivers have a much easier time with licensing. Only a commercial license is required, as opposed to a CDL, which is mandated for vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or more. In addition, hot shot drivers have fewer initial startup and operating costs, which are ultimately passed down to customers. That makes hot shot transportation a more cost-effective solution.

How International Freight Shipping Companies Are Integrating Hot Shot Services

The surge in demand for hot shot trucking services has led to significant developments within both domestic and international logistics. Today, international freight shipping companies increasingly incorporate hot shot trucking into their service offerings, recognizing its efficiency and cost-effectiveness for delivering time-sensitive shipments. This integration with freight shipping companies highlights the evolving landscape of the freight industry, where flexibility and rapid response to customer needs are paramount.

Furthermore, as environmental sustainability becomes a pressing concern, hot shot trucking offers a greener alternative by optimizing route efficiency and reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional heavy-load trucking. This alignment with eco-friendly practices not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also positions hot shot trucking as a forward-thinking choice in the logistics sector.

In addition to environmental benefits, the hot shot trucking sector is witnessing a transformation in customer service and operational transparency. Enhanced GPS tracking and improved communication tools now allow for real-time updates and more accurate delivery estimates, raising the standard for customer satisfaction in the logistics industry. This progress in technology and service quality further solidifies hot shot trucking’s role as a pivotal component of modern supply chains, capable of meeting the urgent demands of businesses and consumers alike.

Connect with MGA International for Advanced Hot Shot Trucking Solutions

The hot shot industry will become even more in demand in the future. MGA International can help with all your transportation needs. Leveraging our extensive experience and a deep understanding of the logistics landscape, MGA International is continuously enhancing our service portfolio to include more specialized solutions that cater to the unique demands of hot shot trucking. Our commitment to leveraging advanced technology and sustainable practices ensures that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. By choosing MGA International, you partner with a leader in logistics innovation dedicated to providing reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation solutions.

Visit our website to explore our transportation services portfolio in more detail or contact us by phone to speak to a company representative.

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An Understanding of Hot Shot Trucking

Hot shot trucking may not be as familiar to you as some other alternatives, but it has been around since the 1970s. Today, it has become an increasingly popular choice for shippers. Instead of sending your cargo through a less-than-truckload or partial-truckload service, hot shot transport is a type of expedited trucking where companies ship smaller amounts of goods. This type of trucking entails the use of a flatbed hot shot trailer and a medium-duty pick-up truck. When you need a fast transport option, hot shot trucking provides a viable choice and if you are on a tighter budget, it makes sense.

Types of Trucks Expedited Freight Carriers Use

Like other trucks in the industry, hot shot trailers come in different sizes. However, the majority measure 30 feet to 40 feet long. As far as the height, it will vary slightly depending on tire size. Most hot shot trailers are 10 feet tall. They transport many of the same items that other flatbed trailers carry, but you must be mindful of the weight restrictions. These vehicles should not carry anything that exceeds 16,500 pounds. Nevertheless, these trailers can support a wide range of materials.

Cost Savings

A major reason why people choose hot shot trucking companies is that if offers a budget-friendly solution. Instead of having to use a larger trailer for your shipping needs, you can spend much less for a hot shot trailer. Due to their size, hot shot vehicles offer better fuel efficiency, providing the ability to offer more competitive rates.

Meeting Deadlines

Time is of the essence in trucking and hot shot trailers can prove beneficial when deadlines need to be met. These agile trailers can reach their destinations quickly, allowing you to remain on schedule and keep customers happy. Hot shot freight is easier to predict and plan for, as driver and trailer are dedicated to that one particular shipment.

The Right Solution for Effective Shipping

When seeking to move smaller capacity loads with tight delivery timeframes, expedited trucking is the way to go. MGA International is your go-to source when looking for hot shot delivery solutions. Reach out to our expert team for more information, or to obtain a free, no-obligation quote.

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These expedited shipping companies are more popular today than ever before. For one thing, hot shot drivers haul much smaller loads. They’re also known for handling time-sensitive goods and can make a delivery within a specific timeframe. Whether going to a particular business or an individual, this remarkable transport solution is a game-changer.

The Top Reasons for Using Hot Shot Expedited Trucking Companies

Below are a few examples of why trusting your cargo to one of the best hot shot trucking companies makes perfect sense.

Time-sensitive Loads

As mentioned, these expedited shipping companies specialize in getting items to their destinations quickly. With hot shot trucking, drivers only have time-sensitive cargo in their trucks. Not only does that ensure that your goods arrive as promised, but it also protects them. Without other items onboard, there’s no risk to your cargo.

Smaller Loads

Although there’s no restriction as to the size, dimensions, or weight of items, most drivers handle much smaller loads compared to traditional transportation services. For something larger, drivers often have access to the necessary equipment to get the cargo to its destination and on time.

Outstanding Customer Service

The best hot shot trucking companies know how important this service is to their customers. For that reason, they offer excellent support. For instance, if you have a last-minute request to have something expedited, the right source will gladly accommodate that need.

As part of outstanding customer support, the top expedited shipping companies rely on technology to provide their customers with incredible service. A perfect example is tracking software. This allows a dispatcher to stay in constant contact with drivers. If something unexpected occurs that the driver can’t control, the company rep contacts the customer to keep them informed.

A Leader Among Expedited Trucking Companies

When you need cargo delivered fast, you can always count on us at MGA International Logistics. We put our experience to work to ensure your complete satisfaction.

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Characteristics of Hot Shot Trucking

Hot Shot trucking operations focus on lighter loads with an emphasis on Less-than-Truck-Load (LTL) cargo. Hot Shot trucking also caters to customers operating on either non-traditional schedules or high-urgency deliveries such as same-day or overnight shipments. The range of vehicles involved in Hot Shot trucking operations is more diverse and less power-intensive, including vehicles such as single-axle trucks and sprinter vans. Hot Shot trucking operations focus on cargo that are either high in monetary value or are vital to client operations. And most Hot Shot trucking operations are small in terms of employees, with many Hot Shot trucking operations consisting of a single contractor.

Necessities for Hot Shot Trucking Operations

Hot Shot trucking operations will need CDL licenses that correspond to the weight classes in which they intend to operate. CDL class designations factor in the weight of the shipping vehicles as well as the weight of the potential cargo, so the types of vehicles that a Hot Shot trucking operation selects will be as important as their target customers. Hot Shot trucking operations need a firm understanding of the laws and regulations governing transportation and be ready to select the best-suited vehicles for the type of cargo they are moving. And Hot Shot trucking employees need to be familiar and compliant with the standard rules that govern conventional trucking services, such as guaranteed Hours of Service and mandatory participation in weight stations on freeways and highways. Hot Shot trucking operators need to ensure that their vehicles and operators are sufficiently insured.

MGA International partners with several Hot Shot trucking companies as part of our expedited shipping services. Our logistics network includes Hot Shot trucking operators with proven experience and results with delivering overnight freight, urgent cargo, and dedicated freight. Our expedited trucking services also include sprinter van expedited freight and expedited shipping of perishable goods such as medicine.

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Expedited vs. Hot Shot Shipping

Usually, a hot shot trucking company will use a smaller truck to deliver its items. Think of this as the next best thing to expedited shipping. A hot shot trucking driver will usually go a shorter distance than with expedited shipping.

The truck that a company uses for hot shot trucking differentiates them from other kinds of shipping. They do not look much different than other trucks you might see on the road each day. Many times, these trucks will also move trailers if the items are big enough. You can often see Class 3, 4, or 5 trucks on the road when someone is using a hot shot carrier.

Where Can I Find Hot Shot Trucking Near Me?

Not every hot shot trucking company is equal. When you need this service, you should select a provider that you can count on when it comes to quickly moving your items to their destination. The good news is that when you go with MGA International Logistics, you can stop looking for a “hot shot trucking near me.” Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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The Canadian Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate will take effect on June 12, 2021, affecting many trucking companies. In the long run, this mandate will offer several benefits to trucking services such as hot shot trucking services. It is important for hot shot trucking companies that travel between Canada and the U.S. to understand the differences between these two mandates.

Differences Between U.S. and Canadian ELD Mandates

There are several differences between the U.S. and the Canadian ELD mandates. First, the technical requirements for the ELD device are slightly different between the two countries. The Canadian ELD Mandate has published the exact requirements for each ELD device.

Second, the ELD device for Canadian truck drivers also needs to be certified by a third party. In the United States, the device can be certified by the manufacturer. Companies that make ELD devices will need to be part of a third-party certification program.

Benefits of ELD Devices

An ELD will help companies comply with the requirement to keep track of hours worked. This can increase the safety of these hot shot trucking companies by ensuring all drivers are well-rested. According to Transport Canada, this new ELD requirement will save the trucking industry more than $81 million. This is because there will be fewer crashes related to fatigue, less time spent using paper logs, and less time spent on violations.

While the Canadian ELD Mandate may initially cost trucking companies money to implement, it will ultimately save them money in the long run. For hot shot trucking services, using an ELD can improve their National Safety Code (NSC) scores because the reporting of hours will be more accurate. Having a better NSC score can help reduce the premiums on insurance for these companies. A better NSC score can also lead to more customers in the long run because the brand name will become more credible.

The new requirements will also benefit drivers. Because they will not have to stop for as many inspections, they will be able to maximize their driving time. These types of devices can save drivers time in other ways too. The devices can streamline the communication between the office and the drivers while eliminating paperwork for drivers.

Choose Trusted Hot Shot Carriers

Here at MGA International Logistics, we take pride in complying with the ELD mandates. Our commitment to complying with all regulations makes us one of the top hot shot trucking services in the area. To learn more about how we are working to comply with these ELD mandates, contact us today.

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The best hot shot trucking companies know that to stay in operation, they must adhere to all applicable laws. Staying compliant also improves their reputation since both potential and existing customers don’t have to worry about potential issues that could negatively affect their service requirements.

Throughout the history of hot shot carriers, the regulations they must abide by today are stricter than ever before. Without having a strategic plan in place, that can create a tremendous amount of stress. The more pressure that hot shot trucking companies experience, the greater the chance of them compromising on quality. In other words, with a plan in place, the best companies don’t feel a lot of stress to stay compliant. As a result, the services they provide don’t waiver.

Top-rated companies understand what it takes to remain compliant and stress-free. The following are some of the steps they take to run a legitimate business that continues to provide customers with stellar hot shot trucking services.

Applicable Regulations, Including HOS

Within the trucking industry, Regulators set HOS or “Hours of Service.” Along with that are regulations for intrastate commerce, fleet quality, and documentation in the form of RODS or Record of Duty Status. Hot shot carriers have the responsibility to understand and adhere to all applicable regulations such as these.

As an example, following the rules of HOS eliminates a great deal of stress. These regulations applies to all commercial for hire carriers, inluding hot shot trucking companies.. With knowledge of provincial, state and federal laws, there’s no need for these organizations to feel any pressure from the government.

Good Monitoring Practices

Another way that the best hot shot carriers avoid stress is by monitoring their compliance scores with all jurisdictions. In Ontario, it’s referred to as the CVOR which stands for Commercial Vehicle Operating Record. In the USA it’s the FMCSA or Federal Motor Carrier Administration. As part of roadside inspections, as well as any earlier violations, FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System creates a BASICs status, which stands for “Behavior, Analysis, and Safety Improvement.” Ultimately, that results in a CSA score, the acronym for “Compliance, Safety, Accountability.”

By paying attention to both Canadian and USA records of compliance, trucking companies can improve on unsafe driving, HOS compliance, crash indicators, driver fitness, use of alcohol and other controlled substances, vehicle maintenance, and hazardous materials. Combined, this allows companies to provide much better hot shot trucking services to their customers.

Patterns of Non-compliance

Identifying patterns of non-compliance is one of the first steps to change. Considering that the government modifies compliance laws and regulations frequently, reputable companies put someone in charge who can quickly find potentially risky patterns, followed by recommending the appropriate remedy.

Logging and Inspection Tools

The best hot shot trucking companies also take advantage of various tools that help streamline logging and inspection activities. With so much documentation mandated for this industry, not getting a handle on it can easily create a lot of stress. Fortunately, hot shot carriers can utilize any number of electronic logging devices or ELDs to help.

Calm and Collected

At MGA International Logistics, we stay compliant across the board. That means when you use our hot shot trucking services, you’re leaving a job in capable hands. For a free estimate, give us a call.

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Finding the Right Hot Shot Trucking Company

The popularity of hot shot carriers has been growing recently. You have the opportunity to get your freight delivered quickly, efficiently, and at a great price. Because of the increased demand in this type of delivery system, this means that your company has more options of hot shot trucking companies to choose from. However, with an increase in companies to choose from, that doesn’t mean they are all created equal.

Knowing what to look for in a hot shot trucking company can be beneficial. Below are some tips to help you select the right one.

Dedication

If you’re thinking about hiring this type of carrier, then you probably have a need to get your items to their destination in a fast and efficient manner. Working with a company that is dedicated to getting your items where they need to go in the time frame you set is important. They should be dedicated to providing you with satisfaction and getting your freight where it needs to go.

No Limitations on Size and Weight

Hot shot trucking companies that are reliable and honest will deliver practically anything. If you find a company that tries to charge you extra because your freight exceeds a specific size or weight, then they probably aren’t the company you’re looking for. Keep your eyes open for a company that doesn’t try to charge you extra.

Protected by Insurance

Accidents can happen at anytime and anywhere. If the company you hired to move your items from one place to another is adequately covered, then your freight should be protected. What you want to look for is a company that offers full replacement insurance options.. This will ensure that your item is replaced at its current value it gets lost, destroyed, or damaged during the shipping process.

Has Drivers that are Available

With this service in high demand, it means that they need drivers to move the items from one place to another. When looking for the right company, you want to make sure that they have a pool of drivers they can pull from that aren’t going to be overworked. If they aren’t well rested, things can go wrong. Having a company that takes care of its drivers but can get your items where they need to go is beneficial.

Quick, Responsive Service

Again, if you are looking for hot shot carriers, it’s more than likely because you need to get your items to their destination within a specific time frame. The company you work with should be quick and responsive to your needs. They should get to your location as soon as possible and get the freight loaded so it can be on its way down the road.

When it comes to working with the right company, get in touch with MGA International Logistics. We’ll get your items where they need to go according to your schedule in a cost-effective manner.

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