Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
760-mile freight corridor via I-76 W (PA Turnpike) to I-80 W to I-80/90 (Indiana Toll Road) to I-90/94 into Chicago. 2 days transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
760 mi
Transit Time
2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$60-90
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.30 | $1,748 |
| Reefer | $2.75 | $2,090 |
| Flatbed | $2.95 | $2,242 |
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-76 W (PA Turnpike) to I-80 W to I-80/90 (Indiana Toll Road) to I-90/94 into Chicago
Fuel Stops
4 recommended
Tolls
$60-90
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.15/mi
Common return cargo: Machinery, packaged food, auto parts, steel from Indiana
Key Stops Along the Route
Philadelphia, PA
Origin
Harrisburg, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Youngstown, OH
Akron, OH
Fort Wayne, IN
Chicago, IL
Destination
Seasonal Trends
High-volume corridor year-round connecting East Coast ports to Midwest distribution. Holiday freight peaks November-December. Pennsylvania mountain weather is unpredictable October-April.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
The PA Turnpike is expensive ($40+) but faster than the free I-80 alternative through northern PA mountains. Do the math on your rate before choosing.
Allegheny Mountain and Tuscarora Mountain tunnels on the PA Turnpike have height restrictions (13 foot 6 inch) and frequently back up.
The Ohio Turnpike has excellent service plazas with truck parking, fuel, and food every 30-40 miles.
Indiana Toll Road accepts E-ZPass. Having one transponder that works across PA, OH, and IN saves significant time at toll plazas.
Philly port loads (containers from Packer Avenue Marine Terminal) can be heavy. Verify weight before departing -- PA has strict overweight enforcement.