MA➜CO

The Route: Massachusetts to Colorado

This guide outlines a common and efficient trucking route from Massachusetts to Colorado. Remember to always consult your GPS and real-time traffic conditions for the most up-to-date information and adjust your route as needed.

• Starting Point: Assume departure is from the Boston, MA area.
• I-90 West: Begin by taking I-90 West (Massachusetts Turnpike). This is a toll road so budget accordingly.
• New York: Continue west on I-90 into New York State. Stay on I-90 west through the majority of New York, passing south of Albany and continuing through Syracuse and Buffalo.
• Pennsylvania: I-90 will briefly enter Pennsylvania near Erie.
• Ohio: Continue west on I-90 into Ohio. Stay on I-90 until near Cleveland.
• I-80 West: Merge onto I-80 West, which will be your primary highway for the majority of the journey.
• Indiana & Illinois: Continue west on I-80 through Indiana and Illinois, passing south of Chicago.
• Iowa: Remain on I-80 West through Iowa, passing near Des Moines.
• Nebraska: Continue on I-80 West across Nebraska.
• Wyoming: Continue on I-80 West across Wyoming, passing through Cheyenne.
• Colorado: I-80 ends just before the Colorado border. Continue into Colorado via local roads to your final destination.

Compliance & Permits

Navigating interstate trucking requires adherence to regulations. Always verify requirements for each state you will be traveling through.

• Weigh Stations: Expect weigh stations along I-80 in each state (NY, PA, OH, IN, IL, IA, NE, WY). Pay attention to signage indicating open/closed status. Specific locations include but are not limited to:

  • Pennsylvania: Near Erie.
  • Ohio: Near Austintown.
  • Illinois: Near Tinley Park.
  • Iowa: Near Des Moines
  • Nebraska: Multiple locations near cities like Omaha and Grand Island.
  • Wyoming: Near Laramie.
• IFTA: Ensure proper fuel tax reporting through the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA).
• Permits: Depending on the size and weight of your load, you may need permits.

  • KYU (Kentucky Weight Distance Tax): While this route does not directly enter Kentucky, verify if any portions of your business operations trigger a KYU requirement.

Risks & Hazards

This route presents several potential hazards, particularly related to seasonal weather.

• Winter Weather: From November through March, expect potential for significant snowfall and icy conditions, especially in upstate New York, across the Midwest, and particularly in Wyoming and the Rocky Mountains. Carry chains and be prepared for delays or closures. Be prepared for "black ice".
• High Winds: Wyoming is notorious for strong crosswinds, especially along I-80. Reduce speed and be prepared to adjust your steering.
• Summer Heat: During the summer months (June-August), extreme heat can be a factor in the Midwest, potentially leading to tire blowouts or engine overheating. Regularly check tire pressure and coolant levels.
• Mountain Driving: Although the route does not include steep mountain grades like those found on I-70, the terrain in Wyoming and the approach to Colorado still requires careful attention to speed and braking, particularly with a heavy load. Use lower gears when descending.