VA➜WA
This 2,971 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
MANDATORY FILINGS
The Route: Virginia to Washington Commercial Truck Route Guide
This guide provides a potential route and key considerations for commercial truck drivers traveling from Virginia to Washington state. Note that this is a general guide and specific route adjustments may be needed based on your origin, destination, and load requirements.
A common and relatively direct route utilizes the following Interstate Highways:
- I-64 West (Virginia): Begin your journey heading west on I-64.
- I-70 West (West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado): Merge onto I-70 West. This will be your primary east-west corridor for a significant portion of the trip. I-70 takes you through multiple states, offering varying terrain and regulations.
- I-15 North (Utah, Idaho, Montana): At some point near Denver or further west in Colorado, you'll transition to I-15 North.
- I-90 West (Montana, Idaho, Washington): Finally, take I-90 West into Washington State. This route provides access to major cities and distribution centers within Washington.
Remember to consult your Motor Carrier Atlas or GPS for the most current road conditions and construction updates. Always adhere to posted speed limits and traffic regulations.
Compliance & Permits
Navigating across multiple state lines requires adherence to various regulations. Be prepared to encounter weigh stations and potential inspections.
- Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Along I-70 and I-15, expect to encounter weigh stations in each state. Common locations include (but are not limited to):
- West Virginia: Expect weigh stations along I-64 and I-70.
- Ohio: Look for weigh stations on I-70 near the Indiana border.
- Kansas: Kansas has multiple weigh stations on I-70.
- Utah: Weigh stations are prevalent on I-15.
- Idaho: Be prepared for weigh stations on I-15 and I-90.
- Washington: Final weigh stations will be encountered on I-90.
- Permits: This specific route may require an IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) permit for fuel tax reporting. It is crucial to ensure compliance with IFTA regulations. Additionally, based on the size/weight of your vehicle and cargo, an Overweight/Oversize permit may be necessary. Consult each state's Department of Transportation website for specifics.
Risks & Hazards
This long haul presents several potential risks:
- Seasonal Weather:
- Winter (October-March): Expect potential snow and ice conditions, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains, the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Utah, and across Montana and Idaho. Chain requirements are common. Always check weather forecasts before and during the trip.
- Summer (June-August): Extreme heat can be a factor, especially in the plains states (Kansas). Ensure your truck's cooling system is in good working order, and be mindful of tire pressure.
- Mountain Driving: Be prepared for steep grades and winding roads, especially in the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains. Use appropriate gear selections to maintain control and minimize brake wear.
- Driver Fatigue: This is a long trip. Plan for adequate rest breaks and comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →