Waukegan, IL
Freight hub guide — rates, shippers, parking, and opportunities for owner-operators in Waukegan.
216
Carriers Based Here
Truck Parking
Midwest
Region
Who Operates Out of Waukegan
216 active motor carriers are registered with a physical address in Waukegan. Here is how that base breaks down by fleet size — useful for judging whether you would be competing against owner-operators or against fleets with dedicated freight locked up.
126
Owner-operators (1 truck)
55
Small fleets (2-5)
12
Mid fleets (6-20)
5
Large fleets (20+)
58% of carriers based here run a single truck, and 29 are registered to haul hazardous materials.
Source: FMCSA Motor Carrier Census (active carriers, US physical addresses), retrieved 2026-07-18.
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment Type | Rate / Mile |
|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.43 |
| Reefer | $2.79 |
| Flatbed | $3.01 |
Rates by Equipment Type
Key Highways
Top Industries
Major Distribution Centers
Top Shippers
Nearby Ports
Truck Stops
Challenges
- EPA Superfund zones require hazmat awareness.
- Lake-effect snow causes sudden dangerous conditions on I-94.
- Port area roads have weight restrictions and limited turning radius for 53-foot trailers.
Opportunities
- Central location provides access to loads heading in every direction
- Massive intermodal and rail hub infrastructure in Chicago area
- Strong agricultural freight during harvest season
- Lower cost of living and operating costs improve net margins
Seasonal Freight Patterns
Harvest season (August-November) generates enormous grain and produce volume. Holiday retail peaks September through December. Winter weather (November-March) causes delays but also rate spikes. Spring flooding can disrupt river-adjacent routes.
Trucking in Waukegan — FAQ
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