# Milk run

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> In a milk run, a carrier drives a fixed, recurring route to collect or deliver goods at multiple stops—picking up small, consistent quantities from several suppliers rather than waiting for a full load from each.

In a milk run, a carrier drives a fixed, recurring route to collect or deliver goods at multiple stops—picking up small, consistent quantities from several suppliers rather than waiting for a full load from each. The model optimises vehicle utilisation through scheduled frequency and predictable stop sequences rather than maximising payload per trip, which sets it apart from full-truck-load (FTL) direct transport. Milk runs are firmly established in just-in-time manufacturing supply chains and retail replenishment, where low inventory levels depend on high-frequency, dependable delivery cycles. The approach works equally for inbound logistics (supplier collection rounds) and outbound distribution (customer delivery routes).

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

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Milk run |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 101 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk_run_(transportation) |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/milk-run](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/milk-run)*

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