Case Study: Increasing Fleet Utilisation Through Strategic Backhaul Planning

Client: Large Independent Waste Haulier (UK)

Challenge

The client operates a large regional fleet transporting materials to key treatment facilities. While outbound routes were well utilised, a significant proportion of vehicles were returning empty, particularly on longer-distance routes. This reduced fleet efficiency, increased cost per mile, and limited margin potential.

The client sought to improve utilisation capacity on key routes without adding vehicles or increasing operational complexity.

Objectives

Our Approach

The WasteVyne analysed key transport corridors, depot locations, and treatment facility routes to identify underutilised return journeys.

We mapped potential backhaul material flows aligned with existing routes, focusing on:

• High-volume, low-handling materials
• Movements originating near existing treatment facilities
• Deliveries into established depot regions and transport hubs

Results

• Increased utilisation capacity on key routes
• Reduced empty running without additional fleet investment
• Improved cost per mile and cost per tonne
• New contracted material movements aligned with existing operations

Impact

The WasteVyne helped the client unlock hidden value within existing fleet operations, transforming empty return journeys into revenue-generating movements and supporting sustainable, scalable growth.