Deadhead
Deadheading is a common trucking industry term that refers to when a truck driver travels with an empty trailer or no trailer at all. This usually happens when drivers need to pick up their next load from a different location after delivering cargo. While deadheading doesn't directly generate income since no cargo is being transported, it's an essential part of trucking operations. Think of it like a taxi driving without passengers to pick up the next customer. Understanding deadheading experience is important because it shows that a driver can handle different driving conditions and efficiently manage their time and fuel between paid loads.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained excellent fuel efficiency during Deadhead runs between deliveries
Reduced Deadheading miles by 25% through strategic route planning
Successfully managed both loaded and Deadhead trips across 48 states
Typical job title: "Truck Drivers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Truck Drivers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Driver Questions
Q: How do you minimize deadhead miles in your routes?
Expected Answer: Experienced drivers should discuss planning return loads in advance, using load boards, coordinating with dispatch, and maintaining relationships with regular customers to reduce empty miles.
Q: How do you adjust your driving technique when deadheading versus hauling a full load?
Expected Answer: Should explain different handling characteristics of an empty trailer, including increased wind sensitivity, different braking requirements, and fuel management strategies.
Mid-Level Driver Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when accepting a deadhead run?
Expected Answer: Should discuss fuel costs, distance to next load, potential compensation, time management, and how these factors affect overall trip profitability.
Q: How do you communicate with dispatch about deadhead opportunities?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of working with dispatch to find loads, negotiating better routes, and maintaining clear communication about location and availability.
Entry-Level Driver Questions
Q: What is deadheading and why is it sometimes necessary?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of driving without a load, why it happens in trucking operations, and basic safety considerations.
Q: What special safety considerations should you keep in mind while deadheading?
Expected Answer: Should mention lighter vehicle weight, different handling characteristics, and increased effects of weather conditions on an empty trailer.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic understanding of deadheading safety
- Following dispatch instructions
- Basic route planning
- Empty trailer handling
Mid (1-3 years)
- Efficient route planning to minimize deadhead miles
- Coordinating with dispatch for load planning
- Fuel efficiency management
- Weather condition adaptation
Senior (3+ years)
- Strategic planning to reduce empty miles
- Network building for consistent loads
- Advanced route optimization
- Mentoring junior drivers
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic safety during deadhead runs
- Poor communication with dispatch about empty miles
- Inability to explain different handling characteristics of empty trailers
- No knowledge of industry regulations regarding deadheading
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