What do I need to get started in the hot shot trucking business? Do I need a CDL? Specific type of insurance? Truck & trailer? How do you find the companies needing cargo transferred?

What size truck, semi yes CDL are you going to do any items that require hazmat ratings. You have have to have what ever level of liablity that the companies will require, it can vary,
Marketing is the problem, you have to write, go visit in person, advertise and so on.