Trucking: Hot Shot car hauling local rates, straight scoop, local auctions

Question
I'm thinking of getting into the hotshot car hauling business with a 1 ton dually and an open 3-4 car 5th wheel or gooseneck. I think I've got a pretty good handle on long and medium haul rates. My question is if I want to quote dealers on local rates for pick-up delivery at local auctions and interstore transfers of less than 30 miles, how do I price these hauls, since it will require more time to load, unload and secure than to drive. Bob says to call on dealers to get their business, but once I'm in the door, I'm clueless about what to quote to be competitive. I don't want to price myself out or throw off the local market by underbidding. What is reasonable. I'm in Jacksonville, FL

Answer
Tom, I'm not familiar with the local market for this service and your competitors are not likely to share information.  You might try befriending a dealer or two and have them call your competitors and share the info with you.  You could offer to meet or beat the competition if they cooperate.  You just have to be sure they are giving you the straight scoop.  From a cost standpoint for short haul work you are going to need to estimate the time required and how much you need to cover operating costs on an hourly basis.  Be sure to include your overhead and profit and establish a base minimum for a short move.  Best of luck with your venture.