How to Reduce Empty Miles in Trucking. Reducing empty miles is key to improving profitability in the transport industry. An empty-mile percentage exceeding 15% typically indicates planning issues.
Planning Backhauls Better
One of the best ways to reduce empty miles is to build stronger backhaul planning into the dispatch process. When dispatchers can see truck location, delivery timing, and nearby opportunities in one place, decisions get faster and smarter.
That kind of coordination is much harder when teams are relying on separate spreadsheets, messages, and load board tabs.
Key strategies for reducing empty miles
- Advance load planning: Organize and secure sequences of at least two loads in advance. Rather than reactively searching for the next one.
- Implementation of triangular routes: Use three-point routes (typically 300 to 500 miles). Instead of simple round trips to more easily secure backhaul freight.
- Backhaul optimization: Seek out return loads immediately after completing a delivery by checking with the same clients, nearby brokers, or through digital platforms.
- Use of technology and TMS: Implement transportation management systems (TMS) and AI-powered freight-matching platforms to gain real-time visibility and coordinate assignments more quickly.
- RPM (Revenue Per Mile) calculation: Evaluate load boards by accounting for deadhead costs and negotiating rates that cover the distances required for repositioning.
- Maintenance of customer databases: Tracks the history of shippers and brokers for specific lanes to reduce the time spent searching for freight.
How to Reduce Empty Miles in Trucking
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