Backhaul Minimum Rate Calculator
Minimum rate a backhaul must pay to cover your deadhead exposure.
Backhaul minimum = (deadhead miles × CPM) ÷ backhaul miles. Below this, the backhaul actually costs you money.
How it works
- 1Enter the deadhead miles
From your delivery to the backhaul pickup.
- 2Enter backhaul loaded miles
Loaded miles on the return leg.
- 3Enter your CPM
Use all-in CPM — the truck still incurs fixed costs on deadhead.
Example: 150 deadhead + 500 backhaul at $1.85 CPM
| Break-even total pay | $1,203 |
| Break-even RPM | $2.41/mi |
| At $2.10/mi the backhaul loses | $155 |
Takeaway: Reject backhauls below $2.41/mi — covering deadhead is what makes the trip net positive.
Key takeaways
- Backhaul minimum = (deadhead + backhaul miles) × CPM ÷ backhaul miles.
- Brokers discount backhauls 15–30% — counter with your break-even.
- Sometimes deadheading home beats a money-losing backhaul.
Frequently asked questions
Is a backhaul always worth taking?+
Only if (deadhead × CPM) is fully covered by the backhaul's contribution above your CPM. A cheap backhaul that doesn't clear deadhead actually loses money vs deadheading home.
How do brokers price backhauls?+
Brokers know they hold leverage on backhauls and discount 15–30% below outbound rates. Use this calculator to set a hard floor before negotiating.
Last reviewed June 15, 2026 by the Bonafide Trucking Solutions dispatch team.