Gary, IN to Cleveland, OH
340-mile freight corridor via I-90 E (Indiana Toll Road and Ohio Turnpike) along the southern shore of Lake Erie. 1 day (5-6 hours) transit. Moderate difficulty.
Distance
340 mi
Transit Time
1 day (5-6 hours)
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$15-25
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.30 | $782 |
| Reefer | $2.75 | $935 |
| Flatbed | $3.25 | $1,105 |
Rates are approximate averages and vary by season, demand, and broker. Always verify current spot rates on DAT or Truckstop.
Route Details
Recommended Route
I-90 E (Indiana Toll Road and Ohio Turnpike) along the southern shore of Lake Erie
Fuel Stops
2 recommended
Tolls
$15-25
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $2.15/mi
Common return cargo: Raw materials (iron ore, limestone, scrap), manufacturing supplies
Key Stops Along the Route
Gary, IN
Origin
Michigan City, IN
South Bend, IN
Elkhart, IN
Toledo, OH
Sandusky, OH
Lorain, OH
Cleveland, OH
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Steel production is year-round but construction season April-October drives demand for steel products. Auto industry retooling (July, December) creates temporary surges. Lake-effect snow from Lake Erie makes winter driving hazardous November-March. Scrap metal loads are counter-cyclical.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
Steel coils require specialized coil haulers or properly secured flatbeds. Improper securing of coils has caused fatal accidents.
Gary/Burns Harbor steel mills (US Steel, ArcelorMittal) are major origins. Know mill loading procedures -- they are unique.
Indiana Toll Road and Ohio Turnpike tolls are significant. Budget $15-25 for commercial vehicles.
Elkhart, IN (RV capital of the world) is along this route. Check for specialty oversized loads.
Cleveland's steel service centers cut-to-order steel products. Loads from service centers are lighter but higher-value.