One of the most significant inefficiencies in the freight industry is the prevalence of trucks driving back empty after delivering their loads. This problem is not only a waste of fuel and time but also contributes to unnecessary environmental pollution and increased operational costs for carriers.
Don’t miss Jasper discussing this critical issue in our video, focusing on the environmental and financial impact of empty trucks.
When a truck unloads at a destination far from its next pick-up point, it often has to travel hundreds of kilometers without cargo, commonly referred to as "deadheading." The distance can be as little as 100 kilometers or as much as 300 kilometers—or even more in some cases. This empty travel is compounded by regulations, such as those governing driving hours, which limit how long a driver can be on the road. These regulations sometimes force drivers to prioritize reaching their next pick-up point over-optimizing their routes for efficiency, leading to more empty miles driven.
The inefficiency is further increased by poor planning. Many carriers focus on reaching the next pick-up location quickly rather than finding the most efficient route that minimizes empty travel. Despite having access to extensive data, the emphasis is often placed on meeting immediate scheduling demands rather than optimizing the entire journey.
However, solutions are emerging. By better matching loads with carriers' preferred routes, companies can significantly reduce empty hauls. For instance, if a carrier specializes in a specific lane (route) from point A to point B, the aim should be to find a return load that aligns with this lane. This approach not only ensures that the truck is not traveling empty but also maximizes the efficiency of the entire supply chain.
Reducing empty kilometers is not just a logistical improvement; it has real-world benefits. At EU level, one fifth (20.2 %) of the total distances travelled was performed by empty vehicles in 2022. If even a fraction of these empty kilometers could be eliminated, it would result in billions of euros in savings for carriers and a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions.
In conclusion, by leveraging data and focusing on smarter route planning, the freight industry can tackle the issue of empty truck hauls, leading to more efficient operations and a positive impact on both the economy and the environment.
