Deadhead
A "deadhead" refers to when a truck, bus, or other commercial vehicle travels without carrying any cargo or passengers. This usually happens when drivers need to return to a starting point or move to a new location to pick up their next load. It's an important concept in transportation planning because companies try to minimize these empty trips to save money and be more efficient. The term is commonly used in trucking, shipping, and public transportation industries.
Examples in Resumes
Reduced deadhead miles by 30% through improved route optimization
Managed fleet scheduling to minimize deadheading between delivery points
Developed strategies to eliminate unnecessary deadhead trips across regional routes
Typical job title: "Transportation Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Transportation Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a strategy to reduce deadhead miles across a large fleet?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include methods for analyzing current routes, using technology for route optimization, coordinating with sales teams for balanced shipping lanes, and implementing load matching systems to find return cargo opportunities.
Q: What metrics would you use to track and improve deadhead reduction efforts?
Expected Answer: Should mention key performance indicators like empty mile percentage, cost per mile, fuel efficiency, driver utilization rates, and how to use this data to make operational improvements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you balance reducing deadhead miles with driver home time requirements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss practical solutions like regional dedicated routes, relay systems, finding local backhaul opportunities, and considering driver satisfaction alongside operational efficiency.
Q: What factors do you consider when deciding if a deadhead trip is necessary?
Expected Answer: Should explain consideration of costs, time constraints, alternative loads available, equipment positioning needs, and customer service requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a deadhead trip and why do companies try to avoid them?
Expected Answer: Should explain that deadheading means moving vehicles without cargo/passengers, and companies avoid it because it costs money (fuel, driver time, wear and tear) without generating revenue.
Q: What basic strategies can help reduce deadhead miles?
Expected Answer: Should mention simple solutions like finding return loads, better route planning, and coordination between dispatch and drivers to avoid empty trips.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of route planning
- Familiarity with transportation management systems
- Knowledge of basic logistics terminology
- Understanding of driver schedules and regulations
Mid (2-5 years)
- Route optimization techniques
- Fleet management experience
- Understanding of transportation costs
- Ability to coordinate multiple vehicles and loads
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic planning for large fleets
- Advanced route optimization
- Transportation network design
- Team management and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic transportation terminology
- Lack of experience with route planning or optimization
- Poor knowledge of DOT regulations and compliance
- No experience with transportation management systems
Related Terms
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