AK➜IA

The Route: Alaska to Iowa

This route guide provides a recommended route and vital information for commercial truck drivers transporting goods from Alaska to Iowa. Due to the separation of Alaska from the contiguous United States, this trip will necessarily involve a significant portion by ferry. The following route assumes cargo has reached a port in Washington State for onward ground transport.

• Step 1: Bellingham, WA to Sweetgrass, MT: From Bellingham, WA take I-5 South towards Seattle. Merge onto I-90 East towards Spokane. Continue on I-90 East passing through Washington and into Montana. Proceed towards Great Falls, MT. From Great Falls continue North on I-15 towards Sweetgrass, MT, bordering Canada.

• Step 2: Sweetgrass, MT to Fargo, ND: From Sweetgrass, MT return to Great Falls via I-15 South. Take US-87 East towards Lewistown, MT. Continue on US-87 which merges into US-12 East toward Harlowton, MT. Near Harlowton, take US-191 North to US-12 East. Follow US-12 East toward Roundup, MT and then continue toward Miles City, MT. In Miles City, take I-94 East toward Glendive, MT and into North Dakota. From Glendive continue on I-94 East through North Dakota and to Fargo, ND.

• Step 3: Fargo, ND to Des Moines, IA: From Fargo, ND, take I-29 South through South Dakota and into Iowa. Follow I-29 South to Council Bluffs, IA. In Council Bluffs, merge onto I-80 East. Take I-80 East towards Des Moines, IA.

Compliance & Permits

Navigating interstate regulations is crucial. The following highlights key considerations:

• IFTA & IRP: Ensure your International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) and International Registration Plan (IRP) credentials are up-to-date for all states traversed. Maintaining accurate mileage records for fuel tax reporting is essential.

• Permits: Depending on the load's dimensions and weight, you may require oversized/overweight permits. Specifically, a Montana Oversize/Overweight Permit is probable given the route through Montana, especially if hauling wide or heavy loads. Confirm regulations for all states traveled.

• Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Be prepared to encounter weigh stations, particularly in Montana. Some potentially relevant stations include:

  • Montana: Expect weigh stations along I-15 and I-94. Locations and operating hours vary. Ensure all paperwork and vehicle inspections are current.
  • North Dakota: Look for weigh stations along I-94 and I-29.
  • Iowa: Expect weigh stations along I-29 and I-80.

Risks & Hazards

Be aware of the following environmental and logistical challenges:

• Seasonal Weather in Montana & North Dakota: Winter brings significant snowfall and icy conditions, particularly in Montana. From October through April, expect road closures, reduced visibility, and the need for chains. Summer can bring severe thunderstorms and flash flooding. Check weather forecasts frequently.

• Wildlife: Montana and North Dakota have significant wildlife populations. Be particularly vigilant at dawn and dusk for deer and other animals crossing roadways. This is especially important on the sections of US-12 and US-87.

• Ferry Delays: Unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or mechanical issues, can delay ferry transport from Alaska to Washington. Buffer your schedule to account for potential disruptions.