You’re thinking about getting into hotshot trucking — or maybe leveling up — and wondering what’s the smartest way to build your rig setup: Used? New? Financed? Leased? Here’s my stock answer: It depends. (No, not the diapers — it depends on your level of commitment, your budget, and your mechanical aptitude.)
Let me break it down for you based on years of experience, real-world road time, and conversations with thousands of hotshot drivers across the country.
New vs. Used Trucks: Reliability vs. Risk
I’ve always believed if you’re in it for the long haul, not just testing the waters, start with new equipment. Why?
• You get 2–3 solid years without the most common repairs
• Less downtime means more money rolling in
• Fewer unexpected expenses (though never fully guaranteed)
The Hidden Risk of Used Trucks (Especially Post-2018)
Many trucks on the market today are there because something went wrong: – CP4 fuel pumps that implode
• Turbo issues
• Transmission failures
• Electrical gremlins
• Valve train headaches
I’ve been burned myself — bought a 2023 truck, and it was problem after problem. And my older trucks (2018–2020)? They’ve cost me as much in breakdowns and lost time as a new truck would have.
Why I Recommend a Commercial Lease for Trucks
If you’re not mechanically inclined or don’t want to get your hands dirty:
• Lease new through a commercial truck dealer
• Run it for 2–3 years (up to 250k miles)
• Then trade it in and repeat
This gets you: – Warranty protection – Fewer surprises – Tax advantages – Easier approvals than financing used. We work with a Dodge Commercial dealer who builds trucks to order for our members — you get exactly the specs you need. Want his number? Let me know.
Used Trailers? Hard Pass. Here’s Why:
You may be tempted to save a few bucks on a used trailer. Don’t. Here’s what happened to me: My “Trusted” Used Trailer Disaster. I bought a 2023 PJ Air Ride trailer from someone I knew, It broke down 4 times on the road. I replaced the follow: Compressors, Hydraulic brake pump, Wiring, Bearings, calipers, rotors. Did welding and major labor, Lost loads, lost time, lost money At the end of it all? I could’ve just bought a brand-new Diamond C trailer instead.
And my used Gatormade trailer? It’s been in the shop for months being completely rebuilt.
Trailer Tip: Finance New, Skip the Lease
If you’re not doing your own welding and mechanical work, don’t buy used trailers. Finance new. Get the warranty and reliability and avoid costly downtime. We have a trailer dealership that works with our Hotshot-USA members to get the right trailer for the job. Need a referral? I’ve got you.
Final Word: Play the Long Game
If you’re committed to making this a real business — not just a side hustle — don’t let “cheap upfront” decisions cost you thousands down the road.
🔑 Invest smart. Start right. Stay rolling.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT A COMMERCIAL LEASE AND HOW IT CAN BENEFIT YOUR COMPANY?
CONTACT CALLAN PERRY OF CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE CITY MCKINNEY TX
PHONE: (972)-974-7803
E-MAIL: Callan.Perry@yahoo.com
