Best Apps and Tools for Hot Shot Load Management
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
Hot shot trucking is all about speed, flexibility, and maximizing every mile. Whether you’re an owner-operator or running a small fleet, the right apps and tools can help you find loads, manage routes, and keep your business running smoothly.
Here’s a roundup of the best apps and load boards for hot shot trucking—and why having the right insurance is essential for your operation.
1. Top Load Board Apps for Hot Shot Trucking
Load boards are the backbone of hot shot trucking. They connect you with brokers and shippers looking for fast, reliable delivery.
DAT One: The largest load board network, offering hot shot-specific loads, market rate data, and negotiation tools. Available on Android and iOS.
Truckstop.com: Known for its “Book It Now” feature, Truckstop lets you instantly book loads, see broker ratings, and access market trends. It’s a favorite for hot shot drivers who want to keep their trucks moving.
123Loadboard: Offers extensive US-Canada coverage, real-time load alerts, and document management tools.
Trucker Path Load Board: Features 120,000+ daily loads, broker credit scores, and a user-friendly interface for finding and booking loads quickly.
2. Essential Hot Shot Trucking Apps
Beyond load boards, these apps help you manage every aspect of your business:
Trucker Path: Provides truck-specific GPS navigation, fuel price comparisons, parking availability, and weigh station locations.
Motive Driver: ELD compliance, HOS tracking, and safety dashcam features help you stay legal and safe on the road.
Trucker Tools: Book loads, find cheap fuel, and plan efficient routes—all in one app.
Hammer: Free truck GPS navigation with real-time traffic, rest area alerts, and customizable routing.
3. Load Management and Dispatch Software
For those managing multiple trucks or looking to streamline operations:
McLeod LoadMaster: A robust dispatch and operations management system for growing fleets.
TruckSmarter: Simplifies load booking, factoring, and document management.
Torotms: Offers load management, route optimization, and real-time tracking for small fleets.
4. Insurance for Hot Shot Trucking
Most load boards and brokers require proof of insurance before you can book loads. Essential coverages include:
Primary Liability (FMCSA minimum: $750,000, but $1M is often required)
Physical Damage
Trailer Interchange
Workers’ Compensation or Occupational Accident Insurance (if you have employees or contractors)
Wexford Insurance specializes in hot shot trucking insurance, helping you meet all legal and broker requirements. We tailor coverage for owner-operators, new ventures, and established fleets so you can focus on growing your business4.
Final Thoughts
The right apps and tools can help you find more loads, run more efficiently, and boost your profits in hot shot trucking. But don’t forget - having the right insurance is just as important for protecting your business and keeping you on the road.
Contact Wexford Insurance to explore coverage options tailored to your needs.