Heavy haul trucking is a challenging job, especially when it comes to long-distance hauls. Moving freight from Washington to Tennessee requires truckers to traverse several states and several time zones, making it an especially taxing endeavor. Along the way, drivers must be prepared to face countless unique challenges, from varying weather conditions to complex navigation. Here’s a closer look at the highways, challenges, and other special considerations for heavy haul trucking from Washington to Tennessee.
Major Highways
Heavy haul trucking from Washington to Tennessee typically involves traversing many highways. The most direct route is a combination of I-90 and I-80, which are both part of the Interstate Highway System. This route takes truckers through Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois, and takes at least two days of driving.
Alternatively, truckers can take I-84 and I-40, which is a much longer route but can save time if truckers are in search of a more scenic drive. This route passes through Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Mississippi, and can take up to four days of driving.
Regardless of which route is taken, truckers must be prepared to face varying weather conditions, traffic, and road construction. Highways in Washington and Tennessee are especially prone to winter snowstorms, and the mountainous regions of the Pacific Northwest can be difficult to navigate.
Unique Challenges
Truck drivers must be prepared to face several unique challenges when hauling freight from Washington to Tennessee. For instance, truckers must pay close attention to weight restrictions, as some highways and bridges may not be able to support the weight of a large truck. In addition, truckers must be prepared to face long stretches of road with no rest stops or services, meaning they must be prepared to manage their own meals and rest periods.
Truckers must also be prepared to face the unpredictable elements of nature. Heavy winds can be especially dangerous, as powerful gusts can blow trucks off course. In addition, lightning storms and wildfires can present dangers to truckers, and can even cause roads to close.
Weather Conditions
Truckers must be prepared to face a wide variety of weather conditions when hauling from Washington to Tennessee. In the Pacific Northwest, truckers must be prepared to face cold temperatures and heavy snow during the winter months. In Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming, temperatures can vary significantly depending on the time of year, and truckers should be prepared for hot summers and frigid winters.
During the summer months, truckers should be prepared to face hot temperatures, strong winds, and thunderstorms. In the Midwest, temperatures tend to be more moderate, though truckers should be prepared for the occasional snowstorm. In the South, temperatures can be hot and humid, with a chance of severe thunderstorms.
Other Considerations
When hauling from Washington to Tennessee, truckers should be prepared to face a variety of other considerations. For instance, truckers should be aware of state and local laws, and should research any special rules or regulations they may need to follow. In addition, truckers should research any potential toll roads they may need to use, and should be prepared to pay the associated fees.
Finally, truckers should be aware of any special equipment they may need, such as chains or straps to secure the load. In some cases, truckers may need to acquire special permits to cross state lines, and should research any potential fees or requirements beforehand.
Heavy haul trucking from Washington to Tennessee is a challenging endeavor, but with the right preparation and the right attitude, truckers can make the journey successfully. By researching the highways, challenges, and weather conditions, as well as other special considerations, truckers can ensure they are prepared for whatever may come their way.
