Waukesha, WI
Freight hub guide — rates, shippers, parking, and opportunities for owner-operators in Waukesha.
Regional hub
Population
Fair
Truck Parking
Midwest
Region
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment Type | Rate / Mile |
|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.39 |
| Reefer | $2.75 |
| Flatbed | $2.97 |
Rates by Equipment Type
Key Highways
I-94US-18WI-59WI-164WI-190
Top Industries
Power generation equipment
Healthcare technology
Hydraulic manufacturing
Food equipment
Printing
Major Distribution Centers
Generac distribution center
GE Healthcare parts DC
ProHealth Care supply chain
Top Shippers
G
Generac Power SystemsG
GE HealthcareH
Husco InternationalW
WelbiltK
Kalmbach MediaNearby Ports
Nearest major port accessible via I-94
Truck Stops
Kwik Trip (I-94 & WI-164)
BP (US-18 & Grandview Blvd)
Challenges
- I-94 commuter congestion between Waukesha and Milwaukee, local road weight limits in residential areas, and limited truck parking options.
- Winter weather creates hazardous driving conditions November through March
- Spring flooding can close river-adjacent highways
- High competition from large carrier fleets based in the region
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 Waukesha — FAQ
Average rates per mile out of Waukesha: Dry Van $2.39, Reefer $2.75, Flatbed $2.97. Rates vary by season, lane, and current market conditions.
Truck parking in Waukesha is rated "fair." Popular stops include Kwik Trip (I-94 & WI-164), BP (US-18 & Grandview Blvd). Parking is manageable but can get tight during peak hours and weekends.
Top shippers operating in the Waukesha freight market include Generac Power Systems, GE Healthcare, Husco International, Welbilt, Kalmbach Media. Key industries driving freight demand are power generation equipment, healthcare technology, hydraulic manufacturing.
The biggest challenges for truckers in Waukesha include: I-94 commuter congestion between Waukesha and Milwaukee, local road weight limits in residential areas, and limited truck parking options.; Winter weather creates hazardous driving conditions November through March; Spring flooding can close river-adjacent highways. However, opportunities include central location provides access to loads heading in every direction.