Richmond, VA to Atlanta, GA
535-mile freight corridor via I-85 S through the Piedmont corridor, Research Triangle, Charlotte, and Upstate SC into Atlanta. 1-2 days transit. Easy difficulty.
Distance
535 mi
Transit Time
1-2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0-5
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.15 | $1,150.25 |
| Reefer | $2.60 | $1,391 |
| Flatbed | $2.80 | $1,498 |
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-85 S through the Piedmont corridor, Research Triangle, Charlotte, and Upstate SC into Atlanta
Fuel Stops
3 recommended
Tolls
$0-5
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $1.95/mi
Common return cargo: Carpet from Dalton, poultry from Georgia, auto parts from Spartanburg
Key Stops Along the Route
Richmond, VA
Origin
Durham, NC
Greensboro, NC
Charlotte, NC
Spartanburg, SC
Greenville, SC
Atlanta, GA
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Consistent year-round demand driven by distribution centers along the corridor. Holiday retail surges October-December. The Charlotte-to-Atlanta segment sees heavy construction activity spring through fall.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
The Greensboro/High Point area is a furniture manufacturing hub. Check for specialty flatbed loads.
I-85 through Charlotte is perpetually under construction. Use I-485 bypass during rush hours.
Spartanburg has a BMW manufacturing plant -- auto parts loads are premium and consistent.
Fuel prices are lowest in South Carolina. Fill up between Spartanburg and Greenville.
Atlanta's I-285 to I-85 interchange (Spaghetti Junction) is brutal. Time your arrival to avoid 4-7 PM.