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Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA

308-mile freight corridor via I-90 W to I-84 W through Connecticut, I-95 S through NYC metro to New Jersey Turnpike into Philadelphia. 1 day (5-7 hours) transit. Challenging difficulty.

Distance

308 mi

Transit Time

1 day (5-7 hours)

Difficulty

Challenging

Toll Cost

$25-45

Average Rates Per Mile

EquipmentRate/MileEst. Total
Dry Van$2.60$800.8
Reefer$3.05$939.4
Flatbed$3.25$1,001

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-90 W to I-84 W through Connecticut, I-95 S through NYC metro to New Jersey Turnpike into Philadelphia

Fuel Stops

2 recommended

Tolls

$25-45

Common Freight Types

PharmaceuticalsConsumer GoodsSeafoodTechnology

Backhaul Information

Good Backhaul Availability

Average backhaul rate: $2.40/mi

Common return cargo: Pharmaceuticals, retail goods, port cargo, food products

Key Stops Along the Route

Boston, MA

Origin

Worcester, MA

Hartford, CT

New Haven, CT

Bridgeport, CT

Stamford, CT

New York, NY

Trenton, NJ

Philadelphia, PA

Destination

Seasonal Trends

Year-round high demand on the densest population corridor in the US. Holiday retail peak is intense October-January. Boston's biotech/pharma industry generates consistent high-value loads. Summer shore traffic (Cape Cod, Jersey Shore) adds severe congestion. University move-in/move-out August-September creates household goods surges.

Trucker Tips for This Lane

1

This is the most expensive toll corridor in the US for trucks. Budget $25-45 for tolls (MA Pike, CT tolls, George Washington Bridge, NJ Turnpike).

2

NYC metro is unavoidable on this route. George Washington Bridge or Cross Bronx Expressway -- both are painful. Run overnight if possible.

3

Boston's biotech corridor (Cambridge/Kendall Square) generates temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical loads requiring qualified reefer and chain of custody.

4

The NJ Turnpike through the Meadowlands is truck-friendly but congested. Use the truck lanes (outer roadway) for slightly better flow.

5

Parking is nearly impossible in both cities. Schedule tight delivery windows and have contingency plans.

Boston to Philadelphia FAQ

Current average rates on the Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA lane are approximately $2.60/mi for dry van, $3.05/mi for reefer, and $3.25/mi for flatbed. Rates fluctuate based on season, fuel costs, and market demand. The most common equipment types on this lane are Dry Van, Reefer, Box Truck.
The 308-mile route from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA typically takes 1 day (5-7 hours). The recommended route is I-90 W to I-84 W through Connecticut, I-95 S through NYC metro to New Jersey Turnpike into Philadelphia. Actual transit time depends on weather, traffic, HOS compliance, and whether you run solo or team. Plan for 2 fuel stops along the way.
Yes, backhaul availability on the return trip is good. Average backhaul rates run around $2.40/mi. Common backhaul cargo includes Pharmaceuticals, retail goods, port cargo, food products. Check DAT, Truckstop, and local brokers for the best return loads.
Estimated toll costs on the Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA corridor are $25-45. Factor these tolls into your rate negotiation -- they directly impact your net revenue per mile. Electronic transponders (E-ZPass, SunPass, etc.) can reduce costs and save time at toll plazas.

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