AL➜WA

The Route: Alabama to Washington (Long Haul)

This route prioritizes efficiency and major interstate highways, but drivers should ALWAYS consult updated maps and routing software due to construction and potential traffic delays. This is a general guideline; your specific origin and destination points will influence the most efficient route.

From Alabama, begin on I-65 North towards Nashville, Tennessee. From Nashville, take I-24 West towards St. Louis, Missouri. In St. Louis, merge onto I-70 West. I-70 will be your primary corridor across the Midwest and into the Rocky Mountains. Continue on I-70 through Kansas, Colorado, and into Utah. Near Green River, Utah, merge onto I-15 North. Take I-15 through Utah and Idaho. Near Butte, Montana, merge onto I-90 West. I-90 will carry you across Montana, through Idaho, and into Washington state, terminating in Seattle.

Consider alternate routes depending on your origin and destination points. For instance, you might utilize I-40 through Arkansas and Oklahoma, then I-25 North in New Mexico/Colorado to connect back to I-70. However, I-40 can be more congested.

Compliance & Permits

Several states along this route have specific permitting requirements. Given the route's length, ensuring compliance is critical to avoid delays and fines.

• KYU (Kentucky Usage Tax): If your travels necessitate even minimal mileage in Kentucky (as you might encounter on the I-24 section), you are subject to the Kentucky Usage Tax.
• Oregon Weight Mile Tax (ORMDT): While the suggested route avoids Oregon, many drivers operating I-90 terminate deliveries in the state, therefore are subjected to Oregon Weight Mile Tax.

Expect to encounter numerous weigh stations along this route. Common states like Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Idaho, and Washington, have well-established weigh station locations. Be prepared for inspections. Some specific locations to be aware of include:

• Missouri: Multiple weigh stations exist along I-70, both eastbound and westbound.
• Colorado: The Dumont Scales on I-70 west of Denver is a common location.
• Idaho: Expect weigh stations on I-15 and I-90, especially near state borders.
• Washington: Various weigh stations are located along I-90 within Washington.

Risks & Hazards

This transcontinental route presents several seasonal weather risks.

• Winter in the Rockies: Snow and ice are prevalent in the Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Utah, Montana, Idaho) from late fall through early spring. Chains may be required. Always check chain laws and weather conditions before traveling through these areas. Expect road closures and delays.
• Summer Heat in the Midwest and Plains: Extreme heat in Kansas, Missouri, and other Plains states during summer can cause tire blowouts and engine overheating. Ensure proper tire inflation and cooling system maintenance. Stay hydrated.
• High Winds: The plains states (Kansas, Eastern Colorado) are susceptible to high winds, which can make it difficult to control a loaded trailer. Check weather forecasts and be prepared to reduce speed.
• Wildlife: Be aware of potential wildlife crossings, especially in Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Pay particular attention during dawn and dusk.