1. Loaded Miles
Loaded miles (also known as "revenue miles") are the distances traveled while the trailer is carrying cargo for a customer.
Revenue Generation: These are the miles for which a carrier is actively being paid. The freight rate usually covers the fuel, driver wages, and maintenance incurred during these miles.
Billing: Carriers typically bill shippers based on the shortest distance between the origin and destination (often using Practical Miles or HHG Miles), regardless of the actual route taken.
2. Empty Miles
Empty miles (often called "Deadhead") occur when a truck is moving without a trailer or with an empty trailer.
The "Efficiency Killer": These miles generate zero revenue but still incur costs such as fuel, wear and tear, and driver time.
Common Scenarios:
Post-Delivery: After dropping off a load, a driver must travel to the next pickup location.
Repositioning: Moving equipment to a high-demand area.
Return Trips: In "backhaul" situations where a carrier cannot find a return load after an outbound delivery.
