AK➜NE
This 2,545 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
MANDATORY FILINGS
The Route: Alaska to Nebraska
This guide provides a general route for commercial truck drivers traveling from Alaska to Nebraska. Due to the logistical complexities of trucking directly from Alaska to the lower 48 states, this guide assumes the journey begins in Delta Junction, Alaska, near the Alaska Highway (AK-2). Keep in mind this route is lengthy and requires careful planning for fuel stops, rest periods, and potential delays.
- Delta Junction, AK to Dawson Creek, BC (AK-2 E/BC-97 S): Begin on the Alaska Highway heading southeast. This portion involves traveling through vast stretches of wilderness. Plan fuel stops accordingly as services can be limited.
- Dawson Creek, BC to Edmonton, AB (BC-2 S/AB-43 E): Continue south on BC-2 which turns into AB-43 as you cross into Alberta. This is a well-maintained highway.
- Edmonton, AB to Coutts, AB/Sweetgrass, MT (AB-2 S): Follow AB-2 South.
- Coutts, AB/Sweetgrass, MT to Great Falls, MT (I-15 S): Cross the border and continue south on I-15.
- Great Falls, MT to Billings, MT (I-15 S/I-90 E): Continue on I-15 South to I-90 East.
- Billings, MT to Sheridan, WY (I-90 E): Stay on I-90 East.
- Sheridan, WY to Buffalo, WY (I-90 E): Continue on I-90 East.
- Buffalo, WY to Gillette, WY (I-90 E): Stay on I-90 East.
- Gillette, WY to Rapid City, SD (I-90 E): Continue I-90 East.
- Rapid City, SD to Sioux Falls, SD (I-90 E): Stay on I-90 East.
- Sioux Falls, SD to Omaha, NE (I-29 S): Take I-29 South. From Omaha, you can connect to various routes to reach your final destination within Nebraska.
Compliance & Permits
Several states are crossed, and compliance with size, weight, and safety regulations is critical. Be certain to secure and carry all required paperwork for your load and vehicle.
- International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA): Maintain accurate mileage records for IFTA reporting in each jurisdiction traveled.
- Unified Carrier Registration (UCR): Ensure your UCR registration is current and compliant.
- Wyoming Permits: Depending on the size and weight of your load, you may need permits specific to Wyoming. Check with the Wyoming Department of Transportation for details.
- South Dakota Permits: Similar to Wyoming, oversized or overweight loads may require permits from the South Dakota Department of Transportation.
Consult official state DOT websites for the most up-to-date regulations.
Weigh Stations/Ports of Entry: Expect weigh stations along I-15, I-90, and I-29. Be prepared for inspections at the Coutts/Sweetgrass border crossing. Common weigh stations on this route include, but are not limited to:
- Montana Weigh Stations on I-15 and I-90
- Wyoming Weigh Stations on I-90
- South Dakota Weigh Stations on I-90
- Iowa Weigh Stations on I-29 near Sioux City.
Risks & Hazards
This route traverses diverse terrain and weather patterns, requiring vigilance.
- Winter Weather: Heavy snowfall, ice, and blizzards are common from late fall through early spring, especially in Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota. Carry chains and be prepared for delays or closures. Check road conditions frequently.
- High Winds: High winds are common in Wyoming and South Dakota, especially across open plains. These can create dangerous driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
- Wildlife: Be alert for wildlife, especially moose and deer, particularly in northern portions of the route. Dawn and dusk are peak activity times.
- Mountain Driving: While I-90 is generally well-maintained, it does traverse some mountain passes. Be prepared for steep grades and winding roads.
Always consult weather forecasts and road condition reports before and during your trip. Safe travels!
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →