Non CDL Hot Shot Loads App – Free Download for Quick and Easy Loads

Hot shot trucking is a great way for drivers to make good money without needing a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License). If your truck and trailer together weigh under 26,000 pounds (or the load is under 10,000 pounds in many cases), you can drive legally without a CDL in most places. This makes hot shot work perfect for people with pickup trucks, gooseneck trailers, flatbeds, or box trucks who want to haul small, urgent loads fast.

Many drivers look for a simple non CDL hot shot loads app that is free to download. These apps help you find loads quickly, book them easily, and start earning right away. In this article, we explain everything in simple words: what hot shot trucking is, why non-CDL is good, the best free or low-cost apps, how to use them, and tips to succeed. This guide is made to help beginners and experienced drivers find quick and easy loads.

What Is Hot Shot Trucking?

Hot shot trucking means hauling small freight that needs to go fast. These loads are often time-sensitive, like parts for oil fields, construction materials, or emergency equipment. Unlike big semi-trucks, hot shot uses smaller vehicles like a heavy-duty pickup truck pulling a trailer.

Key points about hot shot loads:

Loads are usually under 10,000-15,000 pounds.
They fit on flatbed, gooseneck, or enclosed trailers.
Pay can be high because of speed – sometimes $2 to $5 per mile or more.
You can do local or long hauls, but many are short trips.

Non-CDL hot shot is popular because you avoid the cost and time of getting a CDL. You just need a regular driver’s license, good insurance, and the right setup.

Why Choose Non-CDL Hot Shot Loads?

Many people start with non-CDL hot shot because it’s easier to enter the business. Here are the main benefits:

No CDL needed – Save money and time on training and tests.
Lower startup costs – A good pickup truck and trailer cost less than a big rig.
Flexible schedule – Work when you want, take breaks, or do it as a side job.
Quick pay – Many loads pay fast, some in days.
High demand – Industries like oil, construction, farming, and manufacturing need fast small hauls.
Less competition in some areas – Big trucks can’t always do small, urgent jobs.

With the right app, you can find these loads from your phone anytime, anywhere.

Best Non-CDL Hot Shot Loads Apps – Free or Low-Cost Options

There are many load board apps that work well for non-CDL hot shot drivers. Some are completely free, others have free trials or basic free access. Here are some top ones based on what drivers use in 2025-2026.

TruckSmarter – A Top Free Choice

TruckSmarter has a free load board with no subscription fees, no limits on searches, and no hidden costs. It’s great for hot shot because you can filter by trailer type (like flatbed or hot shot), location, and pay rate.

Find 100,000+ loads every day.
Work with hundreds of trusted brokers.
Book loads fast.
Good for non-CDL because it shows small loads and power-only options.

Many hot shot drivers say it’s one of the easiest free apps to use. Download it for Android or iOS.

Trucker Path TruckLoads – Free Unlimited Access

Trucker Path offers a free load board app with 150,000+ loads daily. It’s popular for owner-operators and non-CDL drivers.

Unlimited free searches.
See broker credit scores to avoid bad payers.
Find backhauls to reduce empty miles.
Compare rates easily.

The app is user-friendly and has extra tools like fuel prices and parking. It’s a strong free option for quick hot shot loads.

123Loadboard – Affordable with Free App

123Loadboard has a free mobile app for iOS and Android. The basic search is easy, and they have many hot shot and partial loads.

Over 100,000 loads daily.
Search by equipment type (hot shot, box truck, etc.).
Get alerts for new loads near you.
Tools to find backhauls and check rates.

It’s not fully free for all features, but the app download is free, and many drivers start here.

Truckstop – Great for Hot Shot with App

Truckstop (also called Truckstop.com) has the Truckstop Go app. It’s known as one of the best for hot shot loads.

Use filters for hot shot specific loads.
“Book It Now” feature to book instantly.
See broker ratings.
Good for loads under 10,000 lbs.

They often have free trials or basic access. Many non-CDL drivers use it for fast booking.

DAT One – The Biggest but Try Free First

DAT is the largest load board with tons of hot shot loads. The DAT One app is free to download and try.

Search for “flatbed hot shot” or partial loads.
See real market rates.
Free trial or sample searches.

It’s not fully free, but great if you want the most loads. Many beginners try the free version first.

Other mentions:

Amazon Relay app for flexible loads (free to join if approved).
GoShare or FERO for on-demand local hot shot gigs (good for beginners).

How to Download and Use a Non-CDL Hot Shot Loads App

It’s very simple to start.

Go to Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
Search for the app name, like “TruckSmarter”, “Trucker Path”, or “Truckstop”.
Download for free – most are free to install.
Sign up with your email or phone.
Add your truck details: pickup truck, trailer type, weight capacity (keep under non-CDL limits).
Set your location and search filters: hot shot, flatbed, box truck, under certain weight.
Look for loads: see pay, miles, pickup/drop-off.
Contact broker or book if possible.
Get insured and have authority if needed (for interstate).

Always check load details: weight, size, and if it fits your setup.

Tips for Success in Non-CDL Hot Shot Trucking

To make more money and stay safe:

Get proper insurance – cargo, liability, and bobtail coverage.
Set up your business – DOT number if interstate, MC authority sometimes needed.
Keep your truck reliable – regular maintenance.
Build good relationships with brokers – good ratings help get better loads.
Use multiple apps – more options mean more loads.
Plan routes well – use GPS apps like Hammer or Trucker Path for truck-friendly paths.
Track expenses – fuel, tolls, maintenance.
Start small – do local loads first to learn.
Stay legal – follow weight limits to avoid fines.

Hot shot can pay well – some drivers make $5,000 or more per week with good loads.

Common Questions About Non-CDL Hot Shot Apps

Do I need to pay for these apps? Many are free like TruckSmarter or Trucker Path. Others have free downloads and trials.

Can I find loads every day? Yes, especially in busy areas like Texas, Oklahoma, or construction zones. Apps show new loads all the time.

Is it safe for beginners? Start with local loads. Read reviews, check broker ratings in apps.

What if I have no experience? Many apps have easy interfaces. Watch YouTube tutorials for DAT or Truckstop.

Hot shot trucking with a non-CDL setup is a real way to earn money. A good free app makes it quick and easy to find loads.

Download one today – like TruckSmarter or Trucker Path – and see loads in your area. Drive safe, work smart, and good luck!

Disclaimer:

This article is for information only. It is not a promotion, advertisement, or affiliate content. We do not guarantee any income, work, or results from using any apps mentioned. Always check apps, brokers, and local laws yourself. Use all apps, trucks, and equipment safely and at your own risk.

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