PJ Trailers is a top supplier known for building high-quality gooseneck trailers designed specifically for the hotshot industry. As a hot shot trucker, you need a heavy duty trailer that delivers reliability, durability, comfort, and versatility. To help you design your perfect hot shot trailer, we’ve created a guide outlining the most popular specifications and customization options. If you’re ready to purchase a new hot shot trailer, contact a PJ Trailers dealer near you today.
Trailer Lengths
By far the most common deck length for gooseneck hot shot trailers is 40 feet. On a PJ Gooseneck this gives you a total length of 49 feet. Longer trailers might give you the ability to haul more freight, but can be restrictive depending on state laws.
Deck Heights
Deckover Trailers
If you want tandem dual running gear and a full 102″ deck you will have to go with a deckover trailer. We have a low profile gooseneck trailer with a 33″ deck height (LD model). The low profile uses a pierce beam design to run cross-members through the main frame of the trailer, dropping the deck height around 5 inches. Our standard flatdeck with duals has a 38″ deck height and is still very popular for hot shot trailers.
Low Boy Trailers
Some operators want their trailer to be as low as possible and opt for a single-wheel “low boy” style trailer (C8 & B8 models). These trailers have a 28″ deck height with an 83″ wide deck (C8) and a 102″ wide deck with drive-over fenders (B8). They offer a lower center of gravity, can haul low-clearance vehicles, and can haul taller loads. Trade-offs include “tire scrubbing” when making tight turns on triple-axle trailers, and the fenders can limit what equipment or cargo you can haul.
Axle Ratings
One of the most important decisions you will make when ordering your hot shot trailer is the axle rating. Our most popular rating is 12,000 lbs, with axles available in 10k, 12k, 15k, and 16k. Some customers opt for triple 7k or 8k axles on a low-boy style gooseneck (C8 & B8 models).
Brake Options
Electric Brakes
The vast majority of 10–15 ton trailers use electric brakes, which work well for low- to medium-mileage applications on flat terrain. For high-mileage use, most sellers recommend hydraulic disc brakes. We typically do not recommend standard electric brakes for hot shot trailers.
Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Electric-over-hydraulic disc brakes are our top pick for hot shot trailers. They stop faster, last longer, and cost less to maintain on high-mileage hauls. We offer hydraulic disc on 7k–12k axles, and hydraulic drums on 15k axles.
Air Brakes
Air brakes automatically activate if there’s a leak—bringing you to a safe stop. They require an air supply from the tow vehicle and are available on 10k, 12k, and 16k axles.
Suspension Options
Spring Suspension
Spring suspensions are common on 10–15 ton trailers and work well on flat terrain for low- to medium-mileage applications. For high-mileage use, consider hydraulic disc brakes instead.
Hutch Suspension
The Hutch 9700 suspension is durable, with torque arms for adjustment, million-mile bushings, and maintenance-free hub fasteners—ideal for hotshot and oilfield work.
Air Suspension
Air-ride suspension offers a smoother ride and lets you raise or lower the deck for loading. You can also add a lift axle to reduce tire wear and save on empty-haul tolls.
Deck Options
Blackwood Rubber-Infused Lumber
Blackwood is a lumber with a rubber insert across the board’s surface, solving several age-old trailer lumber problems.
Rough Oak Floor
Our rough oak flooring is exceptionally durable—perfect for hauling steel-tracked vehicles.
Dovetail Options
Monster Ramps
Monster Ramps give you spring-assisted versatility for loading equipment of varying widths, with on-deck storage for cargo.
Power Tail
The power tail hydraulically raises and lowers at the touch of a button for effortless loading.
Center Pop-Up Dovetail
This dovetail pops up in the center for flexible loading configurations.
Straight Deck with 8′ Slide-In Ramps
Includes two 8′ ramps that slide in from the bumper. The LD’s load angle is 23°. Not suitable for loads over 9,000 lbs.
Hydraulic Dovetail & Load Capacities
The hydraulic dovetail lowers and raises at the touch of a button. Load angle is 15° (LY) or 17° (FY), with 10,000 lbs lift capacity and 4,000 lbs hauling capacity from center of tail to axle.
Toolboxes & Storage
Gooseneck Riser Toolbox
Provides storage for chains, straps, binders, gloves, and more in the gooseneck riser, accessible from the trailer deck.
Side Mount Toolbox
Lockable, sealed toolboxes available in 45″ and 72″ widths.
Deck Heights
Deckover Hot Shot Trailers
For a full 102″ deck with tandem duals you need a deckover. Our LD model has a 33″ deck height; our standard dual-axle flatdeck is 38″ high.
Low Boy Hot Shot Trailers
Single-wheel low boys (C8 & B8) sit at 28″ high with 83″ (C8) or 102″ drive-over (B8) decks. Great for low-clearance and tall loads; watch for tire scrubbing.
Where to Buy Gooseneck Hot Shot Trailers
Work with a PJ Trailers Dealer experienced in the hot shot industry. They can recommend in-stock units or custom options based on real-world feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing the right axle rating for my trailer?
Consider the weight you’ll haul. Higher ratings (15k, 16k) suit heavier loads; 7k or 8k work for lighter ones. The correct rating improves safety and longevity.
How do I know if a hydraulic dovetail is a good choice for my trailer?
If you load/unload heavy gear often, a hydraulic dovetail makes it easy—just push a button. It lifts up to 10,000 lbs and hauls 4,000 lbs; heavier loads may need another option.
Can I use the trailer to haul both vehicles and equipment?
Yes. Gooseneck and low boy trailers handle both, but check each model’s weight capacity and deck height to match your cargo.
How important is the trailer’s deck material for longevity?
Deck material affects durability. Blackwood rubber-infused boards resist wear and elements; rough oak stands up to steel-tracked vehicles.
What’s the advantage of using a tool storage box on my trailer?
Toolboxes—like gooseneck risers or side mounts—keep chains, straps, and tools organized and accessible, without cluttering your towing vehicle.
