Denver, CO to Omaha, NE
540-mile freight corridor via I-76 E from Denver to I-80 E through Nebraska's Platte River Valley to Omaha. 1 day (7-8 hours) transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
540 mi
Transit Time
1 day (7-8 hours)
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.20 | $1,188 |
| Reefer | $2.65 | $1,431 |
| Flatbed | $2.85 | $1,539 |
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-76 E from Denver to I-80 E through Nebraska's Platte River Valley to Omaha
Fuel Stops
3 recommended
Tolls
$0
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $1.80/mi
Common return cargo: Beef, agricultural equipment, grain, ethanol
Key Stops Along the Route
Denver, CO
Origin
Fort Morgan, CO
Sterling, CO
Ogallala, NE
North Platte, NE
Kearney, NE
Grand Island, NE
Lincoln, NE
Omaha, NE
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Cattle shipping peaks in fall (October-November). Grain harvest September-November creates strong seasonal demand. Nebraska blizzards December-March can close I-80 for extended periods. Ethanol plant shipments are year-round.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
I-80 through Nebraska is one of the most wind-prone corridors in the US. Crosswinds regularly exceed 50 mph in winter and spring.
North Platte has one of the largest rail yards in the world (Bailey Yard). Intermodal freight connections are available.
Fuel is relatively cheap across Nebraska. Prices are consistent between truck stops.
I-76 from Denver to I-80 junction is two lanes in sections with heavy truck traffic. Pass with caution.
Omaha is a major beef processing hub (Omaha Steaks, Greater Omaha Packing). Reefer loads heading east are plentiful.