INTERSTATE COMPLIANCE CHECK

CO➜AL

This 1,448 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.

TOTAL MILEAGE
1,448 miles
EST. DRIVE TIME
25 Hours
(@60mph avg)
REQ. RESET BREAKS
2
(10-hour resets per FMCSA 395.3)

ROUTE ADVISORIES

  • CO: Chain Laws in effect Sept-May (I-70 Corridor). 6% Grades.

MANDATORY FILINGS

!
Form E (AL)Uniform Motor Carrier Bodily Injury Liability (Alabama)
!
SR-22 (AL)Alabama Financial Responsibility Certificate
!
Form E (CO)Uniform Motor Carrier Bodily Injury Liability (Colorado)
!
SR-22 (CO)Colorado Financial Responsibility Certificate
Enforcement Warning: Operating without these filings in Alabama can result in immediate Out-of-Service (OOS) orders and fines starting at $1,100 (Violation 392.2).

The Route: Colorado to Alabama

This guide outlines a common and relatively direct route for commercial truck drivers traveling from Colorado to Alabama. Please note that specific origin and destination points within these states may necessitate adjustments. Always consult up-to-date road conditions and utilize a GPS designed for commercial vehicle routing.

The primary Interstate Highways involved are:

  1. I-70 East (Colorado): Begin by heading east on I-70 across Colorado. Be prepared for potential mountain driving conditions, especially during colder months.

  2. I-70 East/I-64 East (Missouri/Illinois): Continue east until I-70 merges with I-64 near St. Louis, Missouri. Follow I-64 East across Illinois.

  3. I-57 South (Illinois): Exit onto I-57 South near Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

  4. I-24 East (Illinois/Kentucky/Tennessee): Merge onto I-24 East. This highway will take you through parts of Kentucky and Tennessee.

  5. I-59 South (Tennessee/Alabama): At Chattanooga, Tennessee, transition to I-59 South. This highway leads directly into Alabama.

  6. Destination in Alabama: Continue on I-59 South until you reach your specific destination within Alabama.

Compliance & Permits

Navigating the regulatory landscape requires careful attention. Be sure to have all required documentation readily available.

Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Expect to encounter weigh stations along this route. While locations are subject to change, common locations include:

  • Colorado: I-70 has several weigh stations. Check ahead for operational status.
  • Missouri: Expect weigh stations along I-70 near the state line.
  • Illinois: I-57 has weigh stations located along the highway.
  • Alabama: Alabama operates weigh stations along I-59.

Always adhere to posted speed limits and weight restrictions. Ensure your vehicle is in compliance with all applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR).

Permits:

  • Kentucky Weight Distance Tax (KYU): If your combined gross weight exceeds 59,999 pounds, you'll need a KYU number and must file quarterly reports. Check requirements with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Risks & Hazards

Seasonal weather conditions present significant challenges along this route.

  • Winter (Colorado, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky): Expect snow, ice, and reduced visibility across Colorado and the Midwest states. Mountain passes in Colorado can be particularly hazardous. Chain laws may be in effect. Monitor weather forecasts closely.

  • Spring/Summer (Tennessee, Alabama): Severe thunderstorms, including tornadoes and flash flooding, are common in the spring and summer months across Tennessee and Alabama. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

  • Summer Heat (Alabama): Extreme heat can affect tire pressure and engine performance in Alabama. Ensure proper vehicle maintenance and driver hydration. Plan for extra rest stops. Check tire pressure frequently.

NEW AUTHORITY?

If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).

Get BMC-91X Filing →

MORE HAULS FROM Colorado

To AlaskaTo ArizonaTo CaliforniaTo ConnecticutTo DelawareTo GeorgiaTo HawaiiTo IdahoTo IndianaTo IowaTo KansasTo Louisiana