Nashville to Chicago Freight Rates & Lane Guide (2024)

Nashville–Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin metro → Chicago–Naperville–Elgin metro · 476 miles

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

Current Rate Benchmarks

FTL Dry Van
$3.05
Range: $2.60–$3.80/mile
Before fuel surcharge (~22% FSC)
LTL (Class 70)
$24.50
Range: $20.00–$31.00/cwt
Before fuel surcharge
FTL Transit Time
1 day
476 mile corridor
Standard single-driver service
Fuel Surcharge
22%
Applied to linehaul rate
Source: EIA weekly diesel avg

Lane Profile

RouteNashville, Tennessee → Chicago, Illinois
Distance476 miles
Lane Typesame region
Lane Direction⚖️ Balanced (strong bi-directional demand)
Peak SeasonQ1–Q2 automotive production season, Q4 retail season
Active Carriers~390 carriers serving this lane

Key Industries Served

automotivehealthcarefood & beveragemusic/entertainmentmanufacturing

Market Context & Analysis

Nashville has become one of the fastest-growing freight markets in the Southeast. Volkswagen, GM, and Nissan operate major assembly plants in the Nashville metro area, generating significant outbound automotive freight. Healthcare is Nashville's other dominant industry, with Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) and several major medical device manufacturers based in the metro.

Shipper Tips for This Lane

Strong carrier coverage due to Nashville's central location. Automotive suppliers should consider rail intermodal for heavier, less time-sensitive components. Nashville International Airport offers cargo service for air freight connectivity.

Carriers Active on This Lane

The following carriers maintain regular capacity on the Nashville–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: 476 miles × $3.05/mile = $1,452 base + fuel surcharge (~22%) = ~$14,840 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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