Harrisburg, PA to Knoxville, TN
560-mile freight corridor via I-81 S through Shenandoah Valley, through Virginia into northeast Tennessee. 1-2 days transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
560 mi
Transit Time
1-2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$5-15
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.20 | $1,232 |
| Reefer | $2.65 | $1,484 |
| Flatbed | $2.85 | $1,596 |
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-81 S through Shenandoah Valley, through Virginia into northeast Tennessee
Fuel Stops
3 recommended
Tolls
$5-15
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.00/mi
Common return cargo: Auto parts from Virginia, furniture from North Carolina, tobacco
Key Stops Along the Route
Harrisburg, PA
Origin
Hagerstown, MD
Winchester, VA
Staunton, VA
Roanoke, VA
Wytheville, VA
Bristol, VA
Knoxville, TN
Destination
Seasonal Trends
One of the busiest truck corridors on the East Coast year-round. Fall foliage tourism October-November slows traffic through the Shenandoah Valley. Winter ice on mountain grades near Roanoke and Wytheville causes frequent closures.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
I-81 through Virginia carries some of the highest truck percentages in the nation (30-40%). Stay patient and maintain following distance.
The Christiansburg/Radford stretch has aggressive weigh station enforcement. Keep your logs and paperwork current.
Fuel in Virginia is cheaper than Pennsylvania. Fill up near Staunton or Lexington.
Several steep grades between Staunton and Wytheville -- use engine brakes and watch your speed on descents.
Hagerstown, MD is a major distribution hub. Check for reload opportunities if deadheading north.