Nashville, TN to Atlanta, GA
249-mile freight corridor via I-24 E to I-75 S through Chattanooga into Atlanta. Same day (3.5-4.5 hours) transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
249 mi
Transit Time
Same day (3.5-4.5 hours)
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.45 | $610.05 |
| Reefer | $2.90 | $722.1 |
| Flatbed | $3.10 | $771.9 |
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-24 E to I-75 S through Chattanooga into Atlanta
Fuel Stops
1 recommended
Tolls
$0
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.25/mi
Common return cargo: Carpet/flooring from Dalton, auto parts, poultry from North Georgia
Key Stops Along the Route
Nashville, TN
Origin
Murfreesboro, TN
Chattanooga, TN
Dalton, GA
Marietta, GA
Atlanta, GA
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Two of the fastest-growing metros in the Southeast create consistent demand. Amazon and other e-commerce DCs in both cities keep volume steady. Winter ice on Monteagle Mountain can close I-24 for days.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
Monteagle Mountain on I-24 between Nashville and Chattanooga has a steep 6% grade with a mandatory truck speed of 35 mph. Use the runaway ramp if you lose brakes.
Dalton, GA (between Chattanooga and Atlanta) is the carpet capital of the world. Excellent reload opportunities for flatbed and dry van.
I-75 through Chattanooga is under major reconstruction. Expect lane shifts and 45-minute delays through 2027.
Nashville shippers on the east side (Lebanon, Mt. Juliet) are booming with new DCs. These facilities are newer and more truck-friendly.
This lane pairs perfectly with Atlanta-to-Nashville backhauls. Build a round-trip circuit for maximum utilization.