Should I use backhaul shipping or dedicated trucks?
Clear guidance on backhaul vs dedicated trucking from Gateway Distribution in Vermont, VT.
You ship regularly but you're torn between backhaul service and dedicated trucks. Backhaul costs less but pickup times aren't guaranteed. Dedicated trucks cost more but you get scheduled capacity. Vermont businesses face this choice daily, especially with I-89 and I-91 corridors seeing heavy freight traffic.
Backhaul shipping means your freight rides home on a truck already making the trip. The driver fills empty trailer space with your cargo. Dedicated trucks make the trip just for you. The cost difference is significant because backhaul splits the round-trip expense among multiple shippers.
Backhaul typically costs 20-40% less than dedicated service. Your savings depend on route popularity and timing flexibility. Busy corridors like I-89 between Burlington and the Massachusetts border offer more backhaul options. Remote Vermont locations might see smaller savings because fewer trucks pass through regularly.
Choose backhaul if you can wait 2-5 extra days for pickup and your freight isn't time-critical. Choose dedicated if you need guaranteed pickup dates or ship high volumes weekly. Gateway Distribution can quote both options for your Vermont routes. Most shippers use a mix based on urgency and season.
With the right choice, your freight moves reliably at the right price point. Backhaul keeps costs low for flexible shipments. Dedicated service ensures your urgent freight never waits for space on someone else's schedule.
Other things people in Vermont ask
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
freight shipping transit times
LTL typically takes 2-5 business days depending on distance. Full truckload is usually 1-3 days. Expedited can be next day. Weather, holidays, and freight class affect timing. Get a transit time estimate in writing before you book.
own truck vs freight company
Own trucks make sense if you ship the same route 3+ times per week consistently. Factor in driver wages, insurance, maintenance, and downtime. Most businesses save money with freight companies until they hit 50+ shipments per month.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles backhaul logistics in Vermont and the area around it.