Intrastate vs Interstate Trucking: Key Differences Explained
If you’re a truck driver, it’s not only important to know what type of freight you’re hauling, but also whether it is classified as interstate or intrastate freight. Determining the difference between the two types of freight can be a little confusing, but thankfully, we are here to help! Apex recently attended a seminar held by the Texas Trucking Association, which discussed the difference between interstate and intrastate freight, and we’re sharing our knowledge with you.
Understanding intrastate vs interstate trucking is essential for carriers to determine the correct authority, regulations, and compliance requirements. Many new carriers ask about the difference between intrastate vs interstate trucking and which type of authority they need before hauling freight.
Intrastate vs Interstate Trucking: What’s the Difference?
The difference between intrastate vs interstate trucking depends on where freight originates and where it is delivered, not just where the driver operates.
What is Intrastate Freight
Intrastate commerce is based on where the freight came from and where it’s going, not necessarily on where the driver hauling the freight is located. If you are transporting goods between two companies within the same state, it is considered intrastate commerce.
What is Interstate Freight
If you haul interstate commerce, you are most likely hauling freight between two different states or through another state. Interstate freight also includes freight that is dropped off or picked up outside the US.
Why does the difference between interstate and intrastate freight matter?
It’s important to note that if you haul interstate freight, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has authority, whereas intrastate commerce is ruled by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA also controls gravel and sand haulers, logging, agriculture, and cement and concrete mixers. If you are a hazmat hauler, the DOT has authority whether you haul interstate or intrastate.
An example from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) website helps distinguish the differences between interstate and intrastate.
If a trucking company hauls freight from California to Idaho and you, another trucking company, deliver the freight to its final destination, staying entirely in-state, the freight would be considered interstate because the freight’s original location spans multiple states. Additionally, delivery trucks picking up the load from the warehouse in Idaho would not be considered interstate commerce if the delivery locations were not mentioned in the original shipment from California to Idaho.
For more information on the differences between interstate and intrastate freight, visit OSHA, FMCSA, or the DOT websites.
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