MD➜AZ

The Route: Maryland to Arizona

This route guide outlines a common and efficient trucking route from Maryland to Arizona. Please note that specific origin and destination points within each state may require slight adjustments to this route. This guide assumes a standard 53' dry van operation. Always consult your dispatch and load information for precise directions and any customer-specific requirements.

The primary Interstate Highways used on this route are:

• I-70 West: Starting in Maryland, take I-70 West. This will be your primary east-west corridor for a significant portion of the trip.

• I-64 West (briefly): In Illinois, you might briefly use I-64 West to connect back to I-70. Watch signage carefully.

• I-44 West: After St. Louis, Missouri, I-70 turns into I-44 West. Continue heading West on I-44.

• I-40 West: Near Oklahoma City, transition onto I-40 West. This will be your final major east-west Interstate.

• I-17 South: After Flagstaff, Arizona, you'll exit I-40 and take I-17 South towards Phoenix and other destinations in central and southern Arizona.

Compliance & Permits

Navigating through multiple states necessitates adherence to diverse regulations. Keep your logs meticulously updated and be prepared for inspections. Expect to encounter the following weigh stations and ports of entry (locations can change, so verify using your GPS and current road information):

• Maryland: Expect weigh stations along I-70. Be ready to comply with Maryland's specific size and weight regulations.
• Pennsylvania: While not directly on I-70 (if you take the Pennsylvania Turnpike briefly), be aware of their regulations.
• Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma: Various weigh stations exist along I-70/I-44/I-40 in these states. Monitor signage.
• Arizona: The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) operates weigh stations along I-40 and I-17. Be aware of Arizona's "Move Over Law" which requires you to change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights.

Permits:

• Depending on your load configuration and weight, you may require an Oklahoma Trip Permit if you are not already registered with the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) or the International Registration Plan (IRP).
• Additionally, many states require a KYU (Kentucky Weight Distance Tax) license if you regularly travel through Kentucky. Even though this direct route does not go through Kentucky, some alternate routes or deviations might. Ensure compliance based on your actual mileage in each state.

Risks & Hazards

This route presents a variety of seasonal weather risks.

• Winter (November - March): Expect potential snow and ice from Maryland to Missouri, particularly in mountainous regions along I-70. Carry chains and be prepared for delays or closures.
• Spring (March - May): Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms are possible in the Midwest, specifically Oklahoma. Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to seek shelter.
• Summer (June - August): Extreme heat is a significant risk in Arizona. Ensure your truck's cooling system is functioning correctly, and stay hydrated. Tire blowouts are more common in extreme heat. Also, be aware of monsoon season in Arizona, which can bring heavy rain and flash flooding, particularly in the afternoons and evenings.
• Year-Round: High winds can be a hazard in the plains states (Kansas, Oklahoma). Monitor wind advisories and adjust your speed accordingly. Wildlife crossings are common throughout the route. Maintain vigilance, particularly at night.