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282-mile freight corridor via I-94 W through Michigan and Indiana into Chicago. Same day (4-5 hours) transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
282 mi
Transit Time
Same day (4-5 hours)
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$5-10
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.45 | $690.9 |
| Reefer | $2.85 | $803.7 |
| Flatbed | $3.15 | $888.3 |
Rates are approximate averages and vary by season, demand, and broker. Always verify current spot rates on DAT or Truckstop.
Recommended Route
I-94 W through Michigan and Indiana into Chicago
Fuel Stops
1 recommended
Tolls
$5-10
Common Freight Types
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.25/mi
Common return cargo: Consumer goods, packaged food, agricultural products from Indiana
Detroit, MI
Origin
Ann Arbor, MI
Kalamazoo, MI
Gary, IN
Chicago, IL
Destination
Auto industry drives this lane -- production schedules dictate volume. Model year changeovers (July-August) create spikes for parts and finished vehicles. Michigan winters (November-March) make I-94 treacherous with lake-effect snow.
Auto parts loads from the Detroit Big Three (GM, Ford, Stellantis) are time-critical JIT freight. Late delivery penalties are severe -- pad your schedule.
Lake-effect snow bands near Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor can dump 6+ inches in an hour. Always check radar before departing in winter.
The I-94/I-69 interchange near Marshall, MI is a known accident hot spot. Slow down, especially when wet.
Gary, Indiana on I-80/94 is congested around the clock. The Indiana Toll Road (I-90) bypass north of Gary saves time heading to Chicago's north side.
Canadian cross-border freight through the Ambassador Bridge adds complexity but premium rates. Consider FAST card enrollment.