WA➜NH

The Route: Washington to New Hampshire Commercial Trucking

This route guide outlines a common and efficient path for commercial truck drivers traveling from Washington State to New Hampshire. Please remember to always check current road conditions, weather forecasts, and obey all traffic laws.

The primary Interstate Highways used on this route are:

• I-90 East: From Washington, take I-90 East. This will be your primary East-West route for a substantial portion of the journey.
• I-84 East: Near Boise, Idaho, merge onto I-84 East toward Salt Lake City, Utah.
• I-80 East: Continue on I-80 East through Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
• I-87 North: In New York, take I-87 North toward Albany.
• I-90 East: Rejoin I-90 East toward Massachusetts.
• I-91 North: In Massachusetts, take I-91 North into New Hampshire.

This route is approximate and can be modified based on your specific origin and destination points. Use GPS navigation and consult trucking-specific route planning software for the most precise and efficient route for your needs.

Compliance & Permits

Be prepared for weigh stations and potential inspections along the route. States routinely monitor compliance with weight limits, safety regulations, and required documentation.

Expect to encounter weigh stations, potentially including:

• Washington: Numerous weigh stations along I-90. Look for signs indicating their locations.
• Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts: Varying locations along I-84, I-80, I-87, I-90 and I-91.
• Ports of Entry: Be aware of Ports of Entry, especially when crossing state lines where specific agricultural inspections may be required. These are most frequently located at state borders.

Permits:

• New York Highway Use Tax (NY HUT): If your vehicle's gross weight exceeds 18,000 pounds, you are required to obtain a New York HUT permit to travel in New York.
• Kentucky Weight Distance Tax (KYU): Similar to the NY HUT, the KYU permit applies to vehicles operating in Kentucky over a certain weight. While this route bypasses Kentucky, it's important to be aware of such permits in general for future trips.

Always verify specific permit requirements for each state you traverse based on your vehicle's weight and configuration. Contact each state's Department of Motor Vehicles or Department of Transportation for the most up-to-date information.

Risks & Hazards

This long-haul route presents various seasonal weather risks:

• Winter Weather: From late fall through early spring, expect potential snow, ice, and blizzard conditions across the Rocky Mountains (Wyoming) and the Northeast (New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire). Be prepared for road closures, reduced speeds, and mandatory chain requirements in some areas.
• Summer Heat: During the summer months, extreme heat can be a factor, especially in the Midwest. Ensure proper tire inflation, monitor engine temperature, and take breaks to avoid driver fatigue and equipment failure.
• Fog: Patches of dense fog can occur throughout the year, especially in low-lying areas and near bodies of water. Reduce speed and increase following distance in foggy conditions.
• High Winds: High winds are a common hazard, especially across open plains and mountain passes. Be prepared for sudden gusts and potential loss of control.
• Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife, particularly deer, crossing roadways, especially at dawn and dusk.