The 4:1 advantage: why empty returns are mining’s hidden cost

In mining logistics, the loaded leg is optimized.
The empty return is usually ignored.

Trucking of 4 folded FOX containers, and one standard shipping container

Yet after every delivery to the port, trucks drive back carrying only air. You still pay for fuel, drivers, tolls and time.

That is pure cost.

Example: 450 km inland mine to port

Assumptions:
Repositioning cost = $1.30 per km
Distance = 450 km

Cost per empty truck return = $585

Scenario	Trucks	Cost per cycle
Standard containers	4	$2,340
FOX-bulk folded (4:1)	1	$585
Savings	—	$1,755 per cycle

What this means in practice

If those 4 units complete just two cycles per week:

Weekly savings: $3,510
Annual savings: $182,520

Payback

If the FOX-bulk carries a $15,000 premium over a standard bulk container:

Payback = $15,000 ÷ $3,510 ≈ 4–5 months

After that, the savings drop straight to operating margin.

Designed for real operations

This only works if the equipment is practical on site:

• Fold with one forklift and two operators

• <10 minutes handling time

• Interlocking stacks for safe road transport

• 75% less yard footprint at the terminal

No special infrastructure required.

Bottom line

Every empty return you eliminate is guaranteed cash flow.

The FOX-bulk converts four empty trucks into one.
Less fuel. Fewer drivers. Less yard space. Lower CO₂.

Simple economics.

FOX-bulk return logistics ROI calculator (4:1 folding)

Estimate empty-return transport savings and payback based on your route and cycle frequency.

One-way distance (miles)

Empty repositioning cost ($/mile)

Fleet size (units)

Cycle frequency

per week per month per year

Empty return cost (per truck):
$0

Trucks required (standard vs FOX):
0 vs 0

Estimated savings per cycle:
$0

Estimated annual savings:
$0

Estimated payback period: —

Assumptions: 4:1 folding (FOX trucks = ceil(units/4)). This calculator focuses on empty-return transport costs only.