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Los Angeles, CA to Salt Lake City, UT

688-mile freight corridor via I-15 N through Cajon Pass, across the Mojave Desert, through Las Vegas and southern Utah. 1-2 days transit. Challenging difficulty.

Distance

688 mi

Transit Time

1-2 days

Difficulty

Challenging

Toll Cost

$0

Average Rates Per Mile

EquipmentRate/MileEst. Total
Dry Van$2.40$1,651.2
Reefer$2.85$1,960.8
Flatbed$3.10$2,132.8

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-15 N through Cajon Pass, across the Mojave Desert, through Las Vegas and southern Utah

Fuel Stops

4 recommended

Tolls

$0

Common Freight Types

Consumer GoodsConvention/Event FreightConstruction MaterialsRetail

Backhaul Information

Limited Backhaul Availability

Average backhaul rate: $1.75/mi

Common return cargo: Mining equipment, agricultural products, manufactured goods

Key Stops Along the Route

Los Angeles, CA

Origin

Barstow, CA

Baker, CA

Las Vegas, NV

St. George, UT

Cedar City, UT

Provo, UT

Salt Lake City, UT

Destination

Seasonal Trends

Las Vegas convention season drives freight spikes January-March and September-November. Summer heat through the Mojave (115+ degrees F) causes tire blowouts and overheating. Winter snow on Cajon Pass and through southern Utah can require chains.

Trucker Tips for This Lane

1

Cajon Pass northbound out of LA is a steep 4,260-ft climb. Watch engine temps, especially in summer with loaded trailers.

2

The Baker to Las Vegas stretch has extremely limited services. Carry extra water and check tires before this 90-mile stretch.

3

Nevada fuel is expensive. Fill up in Barstow or wait until St. George, UT.

4

Virgin River Gorge between Nevada and Utah has narrow lanes and no shoulders. Stay focused through this stretch.

5

Salt Lake City's west side (near the airport and inland port) is the main freight district. Good reload opportunities to Denver or back to LA.

Los Angeles to Salt Lake City FAQ

Current average rates on the Los Angeles, CA to Salt Lake City, UT lane are approximately $2.40/mi for dry van, $2.85/mi for reefer, and $3.10/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, Flatbed.
The 688-mile route from Los Angeles, CA to Salt Lake City, UT typically takes 1-2 days. The recommended route is I-15 N through Cajon Pass, across the Mojave Desert, through Las Vegas and southern Utah. Actual transit time depends on weather, traffic, HOS compliance, and whether you run solo or team. Plan for 4 fuel stops along the way.
Backhaul availability on the return trip is limited. When loads are available, they average around $1.75/mi. Common return cargo includes Mining equipment, agricultural products, manufactured goods. Because backhaul is weak, negotiate your outbound rate accordingly or look for loads at intermediate stops.
Estimated toll costs on the Los Angeles, CA to Salt Lake City, UT corridor are $0. This is a toll-free corridor, which helps protect your margins.

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