INTERSTATE COMPLIANCE CHECK
CO➜AZ
This 731 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
TOTAL MILEAGE
731 miles
EST. DRIVE TIME
13 Hours
(@60mph avg)
REQ. RESET BREAKS
1
(10-hour resets per FMCSA 395.3)
ROUTE ADVISORIES
- CO: Chain Laws in effect Sept-May (I-70 Corridor). 6% Grades.
- AZ: Extreme heat (110°F+) causes tire blowouts. Check pressure daily.
MANDATORY FILINGS
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Form E (AZ)Uniform Motor Carrier Bodily Injury Liability (Arizona)
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SR-22 (AZ)Arizona Financial Responsibility Certificate
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Form E (CO)Uniform Motor Carrier Bodily Injury Liability (Colorado)
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SR-22 (CO)Colorado Financial Responsibility Certificate
Enforcement Warning: Operating without these filings in Arizona can result in immediate Out-of-Service (OOS) orders and fines starting at $1,100 (Violation 392.2).
The Route: Colorado to Arizona
This route guide outlines a common and efficient path for commercial truck drivers traveling from Colorado to Arizona. This assumes you are starting near Denver, but adjustments may be needed based on your origin point in Colorado.
The primary route involves leveraging Interstate highways for optimal transit. Your journey will primarily use I-25 South and I-40 West:
- I-25 South: Begin your trip traveling south on I-25 from the Denver area. I-25 will take you through Colorado Springs and Pueblo.
- Connect to I-40 West: Continue south on I-25 until you reach Albuquerque, New Mexico. Merge onto I-40 West.
- I-40 West to Arizona: Continue west on I-40 through New Mexico and into Arizona. I-40 passes through major Arizona cities such as Flagstaff and Kingman. From Kingman you can either continue on I-40 West into California or head south on US-93 towards Phoenix.
- Destination Considerations: At Flagstaff, consider your final destination in Arizona. If heading to the Phoenix metropolitan area, you would likely exit I-40 onto I-17 South. If heading towards western Arizona (e.g., Yuma), stay on I-40 West or connecting to I-10 West.
Compliance & Permits
Navigating interstate trucking requires adherence to state and federal regulations. Be mindful of the following:
- Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Be prepared for weigh stations along I-25 in Colorado and New Mexico. On I-40, expect weigh stations in New Mexico and Arizona. Locations can change, so always check your PrePass or Drivewyze for real-time information. Common locations include:
- I-25 Southbound near Monument, Colorado.
- I-40 Eastbound near Thoreau, New Mexico
- I-40 Westbound near Sanders, Arizona.
- Permits: Because the route primarily utilizes I-25 and I-40, you will primarily be travelling through Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. None of these states require any "extra" state specific permits for general operation, aside from the normal IFTA and IRP. However, be aware that if you are operating a commercial vehicle over 26,000 pounds GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) across state lines, you are required to file and maintain an active UCR registration.
Risks & Hazards
Awareness of potential hazards is crucial for a safe journey:
- Seasonal Weather:
- Winter (Colorado & Northern Arizona): Be prepared for severe winter conditions. Heavy snowfall, icy roads, and reduced visibility are common along I-25 in Colorado and I-40 in northern Arizona (Flagstaff area). Chain laws may be in effect. Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to adjust your route or delay travel.
- Summer (Arizona): Extreme heat is a significant risk in Arizona, especially in the lower elevations. This can affect vehicle performance (tire pressure, engine overheating) and driver health (heat exhaustion). Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and take frequent breaks to stay hydrated.
- High Winds: High winds can be common along I-40, especially in open areas of New Mexico and Arizona. Be prepared for reduced visibility and potential difficulty controlling your vehicle.
- Wildlife: Be especially cautious during dawn and dusk for wildlife crossing the roadways. Elk and deer are common in Colorado and northern Arizona.
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →