PA➜CO
This 1,853 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
ROUTE ADVISORIES
- CO: Chain Laws in effect Sept-May (I-70 Corridor). 6% Grades.
MANDATORY FILINGS
The Route: Pennsylvania to Colorado
This guide provides a suggested route and vital information for commercial truck drivers traveling from Pennsylvania to Colorado. This route primarily utilizes Interstate highways to ensure efficient transit while considering potential weather impacts and required compliance.
Our primary route focuses on maximizing Interstate highway travel:
- Starting Point (Pennsylvania): Begin on I-76 West (Pennsylvania Turnpike) heading towards Ohio.
- Ohio: Continue west on I-76 West to I-71 South near Akron. Take I-71 South toward Columbus, and then I-70 West toward Dayton.
- Indiana: Transition onto I-70 West, continuing through Indiana.
- Illinois: Continue on I-70 West through Illinois.
- Missouri: Cross the Mississippi River into Missouri, staying on I-70 West towards Kansas City.
- Kansas: Continue on I-70 West through Kansas.
- Colorado: Enter Colorado on I-70 West, leading directly into Denver and onward into Colorado's interior.
This route is designed for a driver based out of central PA. Adjust your starting highway to connect to I-76.
Compliance & Permits
Navigating interstate trucking requires meticulous adherence to regulations. Be prepared to stop at weigh stations. Some prominent weigh stations along this route include:
- Ohio: Expect weigh stations along I-70 West and I-76 West.
- Indiana: Several weigh stations exist on I-70 West.
- Illinois: Weigh stations are typically located on I-70 West near major cities.
- Missouri: Expect weigh stations near the Kansas City area on I-70 West.
- Kansas: Kansas operates multiple weigh stations on I-70 West.
- Colorado: Several Ports of Entry and Weigh Stations exist on I-70 approaching Denver.
Permits:
- Kentucky (KYU): Although this route skirts the state of Kentucky, depending on your origin point in Pennsylvania, you may transit through Kentucky. If so, you must have a valid KYU number.
- IFTA: Ensure your International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) credentials are up-to-date and properly displayed.
Always verify current regulations with each state's Department of Transportation before departure as rules and requirements can change.
Risks & Hazards
Seasonal weather presents significant hazards along this route:
- Winter (November - March): Expect snow and ice, especially in Pennsylvania, the Midwest, and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. I-70 through the Rockies can be particularly treacherous, with chain laws frequently in effect. Monitor weather conditions and be prepared to chain up.
- Summer (June - August): Extreme heat can be a factor, especially in Kansas. Ensure your vehicle's cooling system is functioning correctly. Tire blowouts are more common in extreme heat.
- Flash Floods: Be aware of the risk of flash floods, especially during the spring and summer months in the plains states. Monitor weather reports and avoid driving through flooded areas.
- High Winds: Open plains in Kansas are susceptible to high winds. Secure your load appropriately and be prepared for reduced visibility.
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →