Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL
530-mile freight corridor via I-55 N through the Mississippi Delta, across southeastern Missouri and central Illinois to Chicago. 1-2 days transit. Easy difficulty.
Distance
530 mi
Transit Time
1-2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0-5
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.15 | $1,139.5 |
| Reefer | $2.60 | $1,378 |
| Flatbed | $2.80 | $1,484 |
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-55 N through the Mississippi Delta, across southeastern Missouri and central Illinois to Chicago
Fuel Stops
3 recommended
Tolls
$0-5
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $1.95/mi
Common return cargo: Machinery, consumer goods, packaged food from Chicago-area distribution
Key Stops Along the Route
Memphis, TN
Origin
West Memphis, AR
Blytheville, AR
Sikeston, MO
Cape Girardeau, MO
Mt Vernon, IL
Effingham, IL
Chicago, IL
Destination
Seasonal Trends
FedEx World Hub in Memphis ensures year-round freight dominance. Holiday parcel surge November-January creates enormous demand. Cotton harvest August-November. Spring flooding near the Mississippi can disrupt routes. Chicago's distribution needs are insatiable.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
Memphis is the FedEx World Hub and one of the top 5 freight origins in the US. Reload opportunities are constant.
I-55 through the Bootheel of Missouri has fog issues in river valleys during fall and winter mornings.
Effingham, IL is the crossroads of I-57 and I-70 -- an excellent reload hub for east-west freight.
Fuel in Missouri and southern Illinois is cheaper than either Memphis or Chicago metro areas.
The West Memphis, AR bridge over the Mississippi can have delays during peak hours. Plan accordingly.