Memphis to Chicago Freight Rates & Lane Guide (2024)

Memphis–Forrest City metro → Chicago–Naperville–Elgin metro · 531 miles

Last verified: December 1, 2024 Source: DAT Freight & Analytics Trendlines

Current Rate Benchmarks

FTL Dry Van
$2.98
Range: $2.50–$3.70/mile
Before fuel surcharge (~22% FSC)
LTL (Class 70)
$26.00
Range: $21.00–$32.00/cwt
Before fuel surcharge
FTL Transit Time
1 day
531 mile corridor
Standard single-driver service
Fuel Surcharge
22%
Applied to linehaul rate
Source: EIA weekly diesel avg

Lane Profile

RouteMemphis, Tennessee → Chicago, Illinois
Distance531 miles
Lane Typeregional
Lane Direction⚖️ Balanced (strong bi-directional demand)
Peak SeasonQ3 summer produce season, Q4 retail season
Active Carriers~430 carriers serving this lane

Key Industries Served

automotivefood & beveragehealthcareretail distributionmanufacturing

Market Context & Analysis

Memphis is the geographic center of the US and a critical FedEx World Hub, making it one of the most important freight markets. The Memphis–Chicago I-55 corridor is well-served with high carrier availability. Memphis's position as an inland logistics hub means carriers are rarely empty in either direction.

Shipper Tips for This Lane

One of the most competitive short-to-medium haul lanes in the US due to high carrier density. FedEx Freight and Old Dominion both have major Memphis hub operations. Next-day LTL delivery standard.

Carriers Active on This Lane

The following carriers maintain regular capacity on the Memphis–Chicago corridor:

Browse all verified supply chain providers →

How to Calculate Total FTL Cost

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

All-in cost estimate: 531 miles × $2.98/mile = $1,582 base + fuel surcharge (~22%) = ~$16,175 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.

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