Chicago, IL to Atlanta, GA
716-mile freight corridor via I-65 S to I-24 E to I-75 S into Atlanta. 1-2 days transit. Easy difficulty.
Distance
716 mi
Transit Time
1-2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$5-10
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.25 | $1,611 |
| Reefer | $2.70 | $1,933.2 |
| Flatbed | $2.90 | $2,076.4 |
Rates are approximate averages and vary by season, demand, and broker. Always verify current spot rates on DAT or Truckstop.
Route Details
Recommended Route
I-65 S to I-24 E to I-75 S into Atlanta
Fuel Stops
3 recommended
Tolls
$5-10
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.05/mi
Common return cargo: Poultry, carpet/flooring, auto parts from Dalton and Chattanooga
Key Stops Along the Route
Chicago, IL
Origin
Indianapolis, IN
Louisville, KY
Nashville, TN
Chattanooga, TN
Atlanta, GA
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Consistent year-round lane. Strong holiday freight November-December. Summer reefer loads increase as produce season peaks. Winter weather through Kentucky and Tennessee can cause 4-8 hour delays.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
I-65 through downtown Nashville is under perpetual construction. Use I-440 bypass to save 30-45 minutes during business hours.
The Monteagle grade on I-24 near Chattanooga is steep -- use engine braking and watch for runaway truck ramps.
Fuel is cheapest in Kentucky between Bowling Green and Nashville. Avoid filling up in downtown Chicago.
Atlanta's I-285 perimeter is brutal 6-9 AM and 3-7 PM. Schedule deliveries for early morning or midday.
Strong backhaul market from Atlanta -- carpet/flooring from Dalton, GA pays well heading north.