How it works
Round-trip RPM measures revenue per total mile over a pair of loads. Assign connecting deadhead to one leg only and include any planned final repositioning miles.
The formula
Keep currency, units and time periods consistent. Percentage inputs use percentage points (enter 5 for 5%). Results are rounded only for display; tiny nonzero values may use scientific notation. Undefined ratios are shown as unavailable.
Outbound revenue of $1,500 and return revenue of $1,200 over 950 loaded miles plus 150 empty miles produce $2.4545 per mile. Costs of $800 and $700 leave $1,200 combined profit.
Calculation method
The combined rate uses total revenue divided by total miles. Averaging the two standalone RPM numbers without weighting miles can distort the result when one leg is longer.
Interpretation
A zero-revenue return can represent an empty repositioning leg. Enter its miles even when it earns nothing. Optional costs require both leg totals so an omitted amount is not silently treated as free.
Limitations
RPM is a revenue measure. Fuel, elapsed time, equipment wear, tolls and operating costs determine profit. The tool does not forecast whether a return load will be available.
Using this in a dispatch decision
Add both revenues and all included miles before dividing. Do not average the two displayed RPM values: the legs may have different lengths. An assumed return load is a scenario, not booked revenue.
Method and reference sources
Method and content checked 2026-09-20. These sources provide background, not endorsement or professional certification. The formula and limitations above define this calculator.
- ATRI — Trucking researchOperating-cost research context. No industry-average cost or contractual compensation rate is automatically used.
Frequently asked questions
Should I average the two posted RPM values?
No. Add both revenues and divide by total loaded and empty miles. A simple average gives the wrong weighting when trip distances differ.
What is a worked example for Two-Load / Round-Trip RPM?
Outbound revenue of $1,500 and return revenue of $1,200 over 950 loaded miles plus 150 empty miles produce $2.4545 per mile. Costs of $800 and $700 leave $1,200 combined profit.