Deadhead
Miles driven by a truck without a load, generating no revenue. Deadhead typically occurs when a carrier must reposition to pick up their next load or return to their home base. Deadhead miles increase the effective cost per loaded mile and are a key factor in rate negotiations. Shippers in imbalanced markets (more outbound than inbound freight) often pay higher rates because carriers factor in deadhead costs.
Detailed Explanation
Miles driven by a truck without a load, generating no revenue. Deadhead typically occurs when a carrier must reposition to pick up their next load or return to their home base. Deadhead miles increase the effective cost per loaded mile and are a key factor in rate negotiations. Shippers in imbalanced markets (more outbound than inbound freight) often pay higher rates because carriers factor in deadhead costs.
Example
After delivering a load in rural Montana, a carrier deadheads 180 miles to Billings to pick up their next load, burning fuel and time without earning revenue.
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