Backhaul: A backhaul is a load that moves a truck back toward its home base or toward a stronger freight market after delivering a headhaul.
Why it matters to owner operators
Backhauls often pay less because they move against the main freight flow, but they can beat driving empty. Compare the rate against the cost of deadhead before you decide.
Example
A truck delivers in a low-freight area and takes a lower-paying backhaul toward a busy market rather than driving back empty.
Related terms
Brokerage & Loads: Not sure a broker or load is worth your time? We check brokers before we book freight for you, and you always choose which loads to haul. Talk to our dispatch team or browse the full trucking glossary.
Haul smarter with a dispatch team behind you
Nexloads finds loads, negotiates rates and handles paperwork for owner operators and small fleets. No forced dispatch and no long-term contracts.