KS➜VA
This 1,240 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
MANDATORY FILINGS
The Route: Kansas to Virginia Trucking Guide
This guide provides a common and efficient route for commercial truck drivers traveling from Kansas to Virginia, focusing on major interstates, potential checkpoints, permit requirements, and seasonal weather considerations. Note that specific origin and destination points within Kansas and Virginia might necessitate slight deviations from this route.
The primary route generally leverages I-70 East and I-64 East.
Initial Phase (Kansas): Begin your journey on I-70 East. Depending on your specific starting point in Kansas, local highways will lead you to I-70. Maintain I-70 East.
Missouri Traverse: Continue on I-70 East as you cross into Missouri. Be aware of speed limit changes and traffic conditions, especially around the Kansas City and St. Louis metropolitan areas.
Illinois Transfer: Enter Illinois still on I-70 East. Shortly after entering, you'll merge onto I-64 East.
Across Kentucky: I-64 East will lead you through the southern portion of Illinois and into Kentucky.
West Virginia Section: Continue east on I-64, crossing into West Virginia. You'll notice more significant changes in elevation as you move through the Appalachian Mountains.
Final Leg (Virginia): I-64 East will carry you into Virginia. Depending on your final destination within Virginia, you may need to transition to other Interstate or state routes. For example, I-81 could be used for destinations further west or north within Virginia.
Compliance & Permits
Navigating the states along this route requires adherence to specific compliance regulations and potential permit requirements.
- KYU (Kentucky Usage Tax): As you travel through Kentucky, you'll need to ensure compliance with the Kentucky Weight Distance Tax (KYU). If your vehicle meets the weight requirements (vehicles with a declared gross weight over 59,999 pounds), you'll need a KYU account and must file quarterly tax reports. Make sure you've properly registered and are up to date on your filings.
- Weigh Stations and Ports of Entry: Be prepared to encounter weigh stations along I-70, I-64. Check your PrePass or Drivewyze apps for openings. Specific weigh stations of note include those near St. Louis, MO, and at state lines between Kentucky and West Virginia, and West Virginia and Virginia. These may be closed and open depending on manpower and seasonality, so always check.
Risks & Hazards
Be aware of the following seasonal and geographic hazards:
- Winter Weather (November - March): The Midwest and Appalachian regions can experience significant snowfall and ice during the winter months. I-70, I-64 can be impacted. Closures are possible. Be prepared for reduced visibility, slippery road conditions, and potential delays. Carry chains and emergency supplies.
- Summer Heat (June - August): Extreme heat can pose risks to both drivers and equipment. Ensure your vehicle's cooling system is in good working order, and take frequent breaks to avoid heat exhaustion. Tire blowouts are also more common in extreme heat.
- Mountain Driving (West Virginia & Virginia): The Appalachian Mountains present challenges such as steep grades, sharp curves, and limited visibility, especially in inclement weather. Use lower gears when descending steep grades to avoid brake failure. Maintain a safe following distance.
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →