LA➜MN

The Route: Louisiana to Minnesota

This guide provides a recommended route for commercial truck drivers traveling from Louisiana to Minnesota. It's crucial to consult real-time traffic and weather conditions before and during your trip.

Primary Route:

• Start: Begin your journey in Louisiana, typically from a major city like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, or Shreveport.
• I-49 North: If starting in southern Louisiana, take I-49 North toward Shreveport.
• I-20 East: Merge onto I-20 East towards Monroe.
• I-220 North: Bypass Shreveport utilizing I-220 North.
• I-30 North: Take I-30 North (shared concurrency with I-40) to Little Rock, Arkansas.
• I-40 East: Head east on I-40 a very short distance.
• I-55 North: Transition onto I-55 North through Missouri, towards St. Louis.
• I-55 North/I-64 East: In Illinois, I-55 will merge for a short distance with I-64 East.
• I-55 North: Continue on I-55 North, following signs for Chicago.
• I-90 West/I-94 West: In Wisconsin, I-55 will lead into I-90 West/I-94 West towards Madison.
• I-90 West: Once past Madison, take I-90 West to Minnesota.
• I-90 West/I-35 North: Depending on your final destination, I-90 West will intersect with I-35 North, providing access to Minneapolis/St. Paul and other locations in Minnesota.

Weigh Stations and Ports of Entry:

Be prepared for weigh stations along this route. Common locations to anticipate include:

• Arkansas: Weigh stations along I-30 and I-55.
• Missouri: Numerous weigh stations along I-55.
• Illinois: Weigh stations along I-55.
• Wisconsin: Weigh stations along I-90 and I-94.
• Minnesota: Ports of Entry as you cross the state line on I-90.

Always be aware of changing regulations and ensure all paperwork is up-to-date. Check ahead for specific opening times and locations of weigh stations as they can vary.

Compliance & Permits

This route requires compliance with regulations in Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota.

• KYU (Kentucky Highway Usage Tax): Although Kentucky is not directly on this route, if your operations bring you through Kentucky at other times, ensure compliance with KYU requirements. If your company only operates in Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, then this is not a requirement.
• IFTA: Ensure your International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) is current and accurate for all states traveled through. This is critical for proper fuel tax reporting.

Consult with your compliance department to ensure all necessary permits are secured before departure.

Risks & Hazards

This route presents various seasonal weather risks.

• Summer: Expect high temperatures and humidity, particularly in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Missouri. Heat can affect tire pressure and engine performance. Plan for increased rest stops and preventative maintenance.
• Winter: From late fall through early spring, be prepared for snow and ice, especially in Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. This can lead to hazardous road conditions and closures. Carry chains, warm clothing, and an emergency kit. Reduced visibility due to snow squalls is a common hazard.
• Spring/Fall: Be aware of severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, particularly in Arkansas, Missouri, and Illinois. Monitor weather forecasts closely and seek shelter if necessary. High winds can also pose a risk, especially for high-profile vehicles.