ND➜SD

The Route: North Dakota to South Dakota

This route guide outlines a standard commercial trucking route between North Dakota and South Dakota. While specific origin and destination points within each state will vary the exact mileage, this guide focuses on the most common and efficient Interstate corridors.

The primary Interstate Highway connecting North Dakota and South Dakota is Interstate 94 (I-94). Generally, the route involves traveling south on I-94. From North Dakota, drivers will continue on I-94 directly into South Dakota. Larger cities or regions you can expect to pass through or near include Dickinson, ND, and Rapid City, SD. Drivers should be mindful of posted speed limits, especially through smaller towns along the Interstate and in construction zones.

For drivers heading to the eastern parts of South Dakota, for instance towards Sioux Falls, consider utilizing I-29 southward from North Dakota connecting at Watertown, SD. I-29 provides a more direct route, especially if starting in eastern parts of North Dakota.

Compliance & Permits

When operating a commercial vehicle between North Dakota and South Dakota, ensure compliance with all applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. This includes maintaining proper hours of service (HOS) logs, adhering to weight restrictions, and ensuring vehicle maintenance is up-to-date.

Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Drivers should be prepared to encounter weigh stations along both I-94 and I-29. Specific locations can vary, but common ones include:

• I-94, Near Richardton, ND: This is a commonly used weigh station for eastbound traffic.
• I-94, Near Murdo, SD: A major weigh station for westbound traffic.
• I-29, Near Watertown, SD: For those using I-29, this is a key location to watch out for.

These weigh stations are subject to closure due to weather or staffing shortages. Always check current road conditions and weigh station statuses before beginning your trip.

Permits: Assuming your vehicle is properly registered with IRP and IFTA and not overweight or oversized, no specific state-level permits (such as NM WDT, NY HUT, or KYU) are typically required solely for operating between North Dakota and South Dakota. Standard commercial vehicle registration and fuel tax requirements apply. However, it's always best practice to verify with the relevant state DOTs if you have any doubts about your specific load or vehicle configuration. For oversized or overweight loads, you will need to acquire the relevant permits from either North Dakota or South Dakota, or both, depending on the origin and destination of the load.

Risks & Hazards

Seasonal weather significantly impacts travel in the Dakotas.

• Winter: Blizzards are a significant threat from late fall through early spring. These can create whiteout conditions, icy roads, and road closures. Be prepared with winter driving essentials like chains, extra blankets, and emergency supplies. Wind is also a major factor that causes drifting snow and reduced visibility.
• Summer: While generally more favorable, summer brings the risk of severe thunderstorms, including hail and high winds. Extreme heat can also be a factor, impacting tire pressure and engine performance. Watch out for increased construction activity in the warmer months, which can lead to delays and lane closures.
• High Winds: Both spring and fall can bring periods of high winds across the open plains, particularly in western South Dakota. High profile vehicles may experience difficulty maintaining lane position. Always check weather forecasts before and during your trip, and be prepared to adjust your route or driving schedule as needed.