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Backhaul Optimisation and Empty Running Reduction for Fleets

Focuses on one of the biggest hidden costs in road transport, the kilometres vehicles run empty on the way back from a delivery. Teaches operators to find return loads, match capacity to demand and plan routes that keep trucks earning in both directions. Highly relevant to long African corridors where empty return trips waste fuel and erode margins.

What you will be able to do

  • Measure empty running and its cost across the fleet.
  • Identify sources of return loads and backhaul opportunities.
  • Match available capacity to freight demand on return legs.
  • Plan routes and schedules that reduce empty kilometres.
  • Work with shippers, brokers and load boards to fill trucks.
  • Track loaded ratio and the savings from backhaul improvement.

Course outline

  1. 01The Cost of Empty Running
  2. 02Measuring Loaded and Empty Kilometres
  3. 03Finding Return Loads
  4. 04Matching Capacity to Demand
  5. 05Route Planning for Backhaul
  6. 06Working with Shippers and Load Boards
  7. 07Tracking Loaded Ratio and Savings

Who should attend

This course is designed for transport planners, fleet managers, freight coordinators and commercial staff in haulage operations.

Dates, venues and fees

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendar
24 to 26 Aug 2026Mauritius3US$1,500
31 Aug to 2 Sep 2026Dubai3US$1,500
7 to 9 Sep 2026Lagos3US$1,500
14 to 16 Sep 2026Harare3US$1,500
21 to 23 Sep 2026Kampala3US$1,500
28 to 30 Sep 2026Dar es Salaam3US$1,500
5 to 7 Oct 2026Pretoria3R13,000
12 to 14 Oct 2026Cape Town3R13,000
26 to 28 Oct 2026Online3US$900
2 to 4 Nov 2026Mozambique3US$1,500
9 to 11 Nov 2026Cairo3US$1,500
16 to 18 Nov 2026Accra3US$1,500
23 to 25 Nov 2026Lusaka3US$1,500
30 Nov to 2 Dec 2026Kigali3US$1,500
7 to 9 Dec 2026Nairobi3US$1,500
14 to 16 Dec 2026Durban3R13,000
21 to 23 Dec 2026Johannesburg3R13,000

Fees are per delegate. South African venues are priced in rand; other locations and online in US dollars. Fees exclude 15% VAT where applicable. Group bookings of three or more delegates from the same organisation qualify for a reduced rate; contact us for a quotation.

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