OH➜SD

The Route: Ohio to South Dakota

This route guide provides a general overview for commercial truck drivers traveling from Ohio to South Dakota. Always consult your company’s dispatch and utilize real-time navigation tools for up-to-date information on traffic, road closures, and weather conditions.

The most efficient route typically involves a combination of Interstate highways traveling primarily west:

• I-70 West (Ohio to Illinois): Begin your journey on I-70 West through Ohio. This segment is generally straightforward but can experience high traffic volume near major cities.
• I-57 North (Illinois): Transition onto I-57 North. This route runs relatively north/south and will eventually cross over into I-64.
• I-64 West (Illinois to Missouri): Head West on I-64 which then merges into I-70.
• I-70 West (Missouri to Kansas): Continue west through Missouri and into Kansas on I-70. Be prepared for flatter terrain and potentially strong crosswinds as you enter the plains.
• I-29 North (Kansas to South Dakota): Take I-29 North into South Dakota. This interstate runs along the eastern edge of the state and will connect you to various destinations within South Dakota.

Remember to plan your rest stops and fuel stops strategically along the route. Using truck stop locator apps can be invaluable.

Compliance & Permits

Navigating the I-70 and I-29 corridor requires adherence to state regulations. Be aware of the following:

• Weigh Stations: Expect to encounter weigh stations in Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and South Dakota. Common locations include (but are not limited to):

  • Ohio: Typically on I-70 near the Indiana border.
  • Illinois: I-57, I-64, and near major metropolitan areas.
  • Missouri: Often found on I-70 near Kansas City.
  • Kansas: Numerous weigh stations are located along I-70.
  • South Dakota: I-29 typically has at least one station.

  Always be prepared to stop and ensure your vehicle is in compliance with weight restrictions, hours of service, and safety regulations. Check ahead through apps for possible closures of these weigh stations.

• Permits: As this route does not involve travel through particularly restrictive states, specific permits beyond standard IFTA registration and operating authority may not be required for typical operations. However, if you are transporting oversized or overweight loads, you will undoubtedly require specialized permits from each state. The best practice is to consult with your company's permitting department to determine the specific requirements for your load and route.

Risks & Hazards

This route presents various seasonal weather-related challenges:

• Winter (November - March): Expect potential snow and ice, particularly in Kansas and South Dakota. Blizzards can create whiteout conditions and make travel extremely hazardous. Be prepared with chains and ensure your vehicle is properly winterized. Check road conditions frequently, and consider delaying travel if necessary.
• Spring (April - May): Flooding can be a concern in the Midwest during the spring thaw. Watch out for flooded roadways and potential road closures. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are also possible.
• Summer (June - August): Extreme heat can be a significant issue, particularly in Kansas. Regularly monitor your engine temperature and take breaks to avoid overheating. Tire blowouts are also more common in hot weather.
• Crosswinds: The Great Plains region, including Kansas and South Dakota, is prone to strong crosswinds that can significantly affect vehicle control. Be prepared to adjust your driving accordingly.