Speak Like a Trucker: Can You Pass the Slang Quiz?
When a trucker says he's driving a "deadhead," what does that mean?
Correct Incorrect A "deadhead" refers to a truck that isn't carrying any cargo, typically between dropping off one load and picking up the next. Since many companies don't pay for these 'deadhead miles,' drivers try to minimize them—after all, no cargo means no pay! A truck without a trailer is called a 'bobtail,' so while all bobtails are deadheads, not all deadheads are bobtails.