Trucking in Rhode Island
Owner-operator guide for Rhode Island (RI) — rates, freight volume, regulations, top shippers, and everything you need to run profitable lanes through the Providence state.
Quick Stats
Freight Volume
lowO-O Friendly
5/10
Fuel Tax
34.0 c/gal
Parking
critical shortageAverage Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile |
|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.65 |
| Reefer | $3.00 |
| Flatbed | $3.20 |
Key Highways
I-95I-195I-295RI-146
These corridors connect Rhode Island's major freight cities: Providence, Warwick, Cranston. Knowing these routes is essential for planning efficient loads in and out of the state.
Top Industries
1Jewelry manufacturing
2Naval operations
3Healthcare
4Tourism
5Marine
Top Shippers
Electric Boat (Quonset)
CVS Health HQ
Raytheon
Naval Station Newport
Trucking Regulations
- Smallest state — most loads transit through
- Providence is the freight hub
- Many roads too narrow for 53ft trailers
- Most loads originate from Massachusetts
Toll Roads & Winter Conditions
Toll Information
Bridge tolls for trucks
Winter Conditions
Moderate winters; noreasters; coastal flooding
Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, dry van rates average $2.65/mile, reefer rates average $3.00/mile, and flatbed rates average $3.20/mile. Actual rates vary by lane, season, and load specifics.
Rhode Island scores 5/10 on our owner-operator friendliness scale. The state has low freight volume with critical shortage truck parking availability. Key industries driving freight include Jewelry manufacturing, Naval operations, Healthcare.
Key trucking regulations in Rhode Island include: Smallest state — most loads transit through. Providence is the freight hub. Many roads too narrow for 53ft trailers. Most loads originate from Massachusetts. The state fuel tax rate is 34.0 cents per gallon.
The major freight highways in Rhode Island are I-95, I-195, I-295, RI-146. These corridors connect the state's key freight cities: Providence, Warwick, Cranston. Bridge tolls for trucks.