Dallas, TX to Houston, TX
240-mile freight corridor via I-45 S directly into Houston. Same day (3.5-4.5 hours) transit. Easy difficulty.
Distance
240 mi
Transit Time
Same day (3.5-4.5 hours)
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0-15
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.40 | $576 |
| Reefer | $2.85 | $684 |
| Flatbed | $3.10 | $744 |
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-45 S directly into Houston
Fuel Stops
1 recommended
Tolls
$0-15
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.25/mi
Common return cargo: Petrochemical products, steel pipe, industrial equipment
Key Stops Along the Route
Dallas, TX
Origin
Corsicana, TX
Buffalo, TX
Huntsville, TX
Conroe, TX
Houston, TX
Destination
Seasonal Trends
The #1 intrastate lane in Texas by volume. Consistent year-round. Oil price spikes increase flatbed and tanker demand from Houston refineries. Holiday retail surges drive dry van volume.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
I-45 between Dallas and Houston is one of the deadliest highways in America. Maintain following distance and stay alert.
Houston's toll roads (Hardy, Beltway 8, 249) can save 45+ minutes reaching northwest or northeast Houston warehouses. Get an EZ-TAG.
Multiple mega-distribution centers in Conroe and north Houston. Reload opportunities are excellent.
The Huntsville area has heavy law enforcement. Speed traps are constant on I-45 through Walker County.
This lane works well for team drivers or solo short-haul operators. Two round trips per day is doable with efficient receivers.