Indianapolis to Chicago Freight Rates & Lane Guide (2024)

Indianapolis, Indiana → Chicago, Illinois · 180 miles

Last verified: March 31, 2026 Source: DAT Freight & Analytics

Current Rate Benchmarks

FTL Dry Van
$3.90
Range: $3.10–$5.00/mile
Before fuel surcharge (~22% FSC)
LTL (Class 70)
$43.00
Range: $NaN–$NaN/cwt
Before fuel surcharge
FTL Transit Time
1 day
180 mile corridor
Standard single-driver service
Fuel Surcharge
22%
Applied to linehaul rate
Source: EIA weekly diesel avg

Lane Profile

RouteIndianapolis, Indiana → Chicago, Illinois
Distance180 miles
Lane Typeregional
Lane Direction⚖️ Balanced (strong bi-directional demand)
Peak SeasonQ4 holiday, Q1 auto model year
Active Carriers~450 carriers serving this lane

Market Context & Analysis

Indianapolis to Chicago is a critical Midwest connector linking Indiana's massive logistics hub (Indy is a top-5 US warehousing city) with Chicago's national distribution network. Automotive parts, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical freight dominate this high-volume short-haul lane.

Shipper Tips for This Lane

Indianapolis has extremely high carrier availability — one of the best warehousing markets in the US. Same-day service available for urgent freight. I-65 is well-maintained but Chicago metro congestion can add 1-2 hours to transit.

How to Calculate Total FTL Cost

The all-in FTL cost for this lane is calculated as:

All-in cost estimate: 180 miles × $3.90/mile = $702 base + fuel surcharge (~22%) = ~$7,176 all-in

This estimate excludes accessorial charges (liftgate, inside delivery, residential surcharges, detention, and driver layover). Use our landed cost calculator for a comprehensive total cost of ownership.

Need a Carrier on This Lane?

Get matched with verified carriers and 3PLs that operate the Indianapolis–Chicago corridor.

Find Carriers Free →

Related Freight Lanes

Lanes sharing IN or IL — sorted by similar distance.

← All US freight lanes · Multi-mode rate benchmarks → · Landed cost calculator →