How to Reduce Empty HGV Miles

Empty running remains a material issue in UK road freight. Department for Transport statistics report that GB-registered HGVs travelled 5,897 million kilometres empty in 2025. For an individual operator, the useful question is not simply how to find more work, but how to identify freight that genuinely fits the vehicle, route, timing and operating plan.

Start with route fit, not just load availability

A return load is useful only when collection and delivery can be incorporated realistically. Consider the vehicle's current destination, next planned movement, collection window, delivery window, vehicle suitability and the additional distance needed to collect the freight.

Compare the incremental cost of the return load

A practical comparison starts with what changes if the load is accepted. Use your own operating figures rather than a generic market rate: additional revenue from the load, additional mileage, fuel, driver or operating time, road charges and other costs created by the detour or waiting time. This is an incremental comparison, not a calculation of the full profit of the vehicle's day.

For example, if a load requires a collection away from the direct return route, calculate the extra distance and time created by that collection and delivery. The decision should reflect those additional costs and the vehicle's next commitment; avoiding an empty leg does not automatically make every backload a good operational fit.

Keep operational constraints visible

Drivers and operators still need to work within applicable drivers' hours, tachograph and road-freight requirements. A commercially attractive load is not a good match if the planned movement cannot be completed lawfully and safely. See the HGV drivers' hours and tachographs guide for the relevant planning context.

Treat load security as part of the match

Vehicle and freight compatibility matter. DVSA guidance makes clear that operators, drivers and consignors all have responsibilities around safe loading and load security. Before accepting work, the transport plan should account for the load, vehicle and appropriate securing arrangements.

Reduce disconnected administration

Finding freight is only one part of productive utilisation. Applications, messages, job status and proof of delivery should remain easy to follow so that additional work does not create avoidable administrative friction.