# Headhaul

*Last updated: 2026-06-24*

> In a carrier's network, the headhaul is the high-demand direction of a lane, where a vehicle moves fully loaded—typically from a production or export hub toward a distribution or import centre.

In a carrier's network, the headhaul is the high-demand direction of a lane, where a vehicle moves fully loaded—typically from a production or export hub toward a distribution or import centre. Its counterpart is the backhaul: the return leg, often run empty or with only a partial load. Because available capacity on the headhaul is tighter, carriers can command premium rates in that direction. Efficient load planning therefore aims to secure cargo for backhaul trips as well, minimising empty runs and improving asset utilisation. The structural imbalance between the two directions is one of the main drivers of freight rate volatility across road, rail, and ocean transport.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backhaul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backhaul)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Headhaul |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 107 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-24 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backhaul |

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