Trucking in Ohio
Ohio logs over 27 million commercial truck miles annually, and that number is heading up — freight volume is projected to increase 26 percent by 2045. Four major interstates cross the state: I-80 (the Ohio Turnpike), I-70 through Columbus, I-75 from Cincinnati to Toledo, and I-71 connecting Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati in the state’s freight triangle. With no split speed limit — trucks and cars both get 70 mph — Ohio treats commercial vehicles more fairly than most of its neighbors.
The standout tool for any trucker running Ohio is OHGO. It is the best state DOT platform in the country, providing real-time traffic cameras, incident reporting, construction zones, weather conditions, and live truck parking availability through both a website and mobile app. OHGO’s public API exposes 9 endpoints including a dedicated Truck Parking feed, which means real-time parking data can be integrated directly into routing decisions. No other state gives truckers this level of free, accessible operational intelligence.
Current Conditions: Check OHGO.com for real-time traffic, incidents, and truck parking availability. (Live OHGO data coming soon.)
Ohio’s biggest infrastructure investment is in truck parking. The state is spending $150 million to add 1,400+ new spaces at 33 sites, with construction starting in 2026 and completion targeted for end of 2027. This will more than double state-owned capacity to 3,100+ spots. Meanwhile, lake-effect snow from Lake Erie hammers the I-90 corridor through Ashtabula, Lake, and Cuyahoga counties — whiteout conditions can materialize with little warning. The Turnpike runs 241 miles across northern Ohio at $58.75 for a 5-axle E-ZPass westbound, making toll math a real factor for carriers running the I-80 transcontinental route.
Truck Parking: Ohio is adding 1,400+ spaces at 33 sites by end of 2027. Check OHGO for real-time parking availability. (Live parking data coming soon.)
Starting a Trucking Company in Ohio?
If you’re launching a new carrier in Ohio, our free guide walks you through every step from business formation to passing your first FMCSA safety audit. Start with the decision guide or jump to insurance costs for new authorities.
Major Trucking Corridors in Ohio
Ohio Trucking Insurance Requirements
State Minimums (Intrastate)
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $25,000 |
Federal Minimum (Interstate)
$750,000
Required for interstate for-hire carriers
RMS Recommendation: We recommend $1,000,000 CSL for most carriers. Most brokers and shippers require $1M, and it protects your personal assets.
Coverage Types for Ohio Truckers
Major Freight Hubs in Ohio
Columbus
Central Ohio crossroads where I-70 and I-71 intersect, with a rapidly growing logistics and distribution sector.
Cleveland
Lake Erie port city and northern freight hub connecting I-77, I-90, and I-480 with industrial freight.
Cincinnati
Ohio River gateway where I-71 and I-75 converge, connecting the Midwest to southeastern freight lanes.
Toledo
Northwestern Ohio hub where I-75 meets the Ohio Turnpike, with port facilities on Lake Erie.
Ohio Trucking Regulations
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Speed Limits | No split speed limit -- trucks and cars both 70 mph on rural interstates. Ohio is trucker-friendly on speed. |
| Weight Limits | 20K single axle, 34K tandem, 48K tridem, 80K GVW. Federal Bridge Formula enforced statewide. |
| Weigh Station Threshold | All CMVs over 10,000 lbs (5 tons) including combinations must stop at open weigh stations. |
| Winter Operations | No chain law. Studded tires Nov 1 - Apr 15 only. County sheriffs can declare snow emergencies. |
| Oversize/Overweight Permits | Online portal at haulingpermits.transportation.ohio.gov. Standard permit ~$135. Turnpike requires SEPARATE permit. |
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Ohio Trucking Insurance FAQ
What insurance do I need to truck in Ohio?
Ohio intrastate minimums are $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury and $25,000 property damage. Interstate carriers must meet the federal minimum of $750,000. You also need a PUCO CPCN for intrastate for-hire operations, with Form E filed by your insurer. RMS recommends $1M CSL.
How much are Ohio Turnpike tolls for a semi?
For 2026, a Class 5 (5-axle) truck pays $58.75 westbound or $49.75 eastbound with E-ZPass for the full 241-mile trip. Cash rates run about 20 percent higher. Rates increased 2.7 percent effective January 1, 2026.
What is the OHGO app and why should truckers use it?
OHGO is Ohio's free real-time traffic platform with live cameras, incident alerts, construction updates, weather conditions, and real-time truck parking availability. It is the best state DOT tool in the country.
Do I need a separate Ohio DOT number?
Yes. All commercial motor vehicles operating in Ohio need an Ohio DOT number, which is separate from your federal USDOT number.
Where are the weigh stations on I-70 in Ohio?
Key I-70 stations include Preble County/Eaton (EB MP 0) at the Indiana border and Cambridge (MP 173) in both directions. Cambridge is one of the most heavily monitored stations in the state.
What is Ohio doing about truck parking?
Ohio is investing $150 million to add 1,400+ new truck parking spaces at 33 sites. Construction begins in 2026 with completion targeted for end of 2027, more than doubling state-owned capacity to 3,100+ spots.
Are there chain laws in Ohio?
Ohio has no formal chain law, but chains are permitted for safety. Studded tires are allowed November 1 through April 15 only. County sheriffs can declare snow emergencies and close roads.