Short haul trucking presents several advantages for experienced drivers. For instance, there’s the ability to plan around tight deadlines, stay close to home, and reduced operating costs. But you’re probably asking yourself, what is short haul trucking exactly?
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of short haul trucking, how it differs from long haul trips and the importance of being insured. Let’s begin!
What’s Short Haul Trucking?
Short haul trucking is a form of transportation where the load is being delivered over a relatively short distance, typically within 150 miles. This method of shipping doesn’t have the same challenges that are often associated with long haul trucking. Short haul trucking can be completed in a shorter amount of time, often within four hours or less. As a result, fuel consumption and wear and tear on vehicles can be minimized.
Additionally, short haul trucks are usually smaller in size and capable of transporting goods with greater efficiency. Overall, short haul trucking has an essential role in the local supply chain. In fact many new business ventures start out in hot shot trucking. One reason is lower costs of entry including lower hot shot insurance costs.
How Does Short Haul Differ from Long Haul?
The key difference between short and long haul trucking is your hauling radius. Typically, long hauls often involve cross-country trips (interstate vs intrastate) while most short hauls are limited to local or regional runs. Long hauls also involve more downtime due to longer distances traveled, as well as additional costs associated with fuel consumption, wear and tear on vehicles, and overnight accommodations.
Because of these factors, long haul drivers typically make more money per mile than their short haul counterparts do. However, they also have a higher risk of accidents due to fatigue (driver fitness) caused by extended periods on the road.
Get Insured
As a short haul truck driver, it’s critical to have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your business. Truck rollovers can happen at any time, and without insurance, you could be held financially responsible for damages or injuries sustained in a collision. In addition to protecting you and your business, having insurance can also help to build trust with your clients and customers. This will indicate to them that you’re taking proactive measures to safeguard the goods in your care.
It’s also worth noting that many states have laws requiring commercial trucking companies and their drivers to carry a certain amount of liability coverage. Failing to meet these requirements could result in serious fines and penalties. Overall, obtaining insurance is an important aspect of operating a successful short haul trucking business.
Ways to Save
While insurance for your short haul vehicle may seem expensive at first, there are ways to save on your premiums. For instance, maintaining a clean driving record, participating in safety training courses, and keeping up with vehicle maintenance can all help to lower insurance costs. Additionally, an umbrella liability policy may be a wise investment for added protection.
Overall, investing in insurance is an important part of running a successful trucking business and protecting yourself and your assets.
