What Is the Difference between Interstate and Intrastate Trucking?

By Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP on November 10, 2015

Blue 18 wheeler

The terms interstate and intrastate are often mistakenly used interchangeably when referring to the trucking industry. However, they have very different meanings, especially when it comes to your accident lawsuit.

Table of Contents

What Is Intrastate Trucking?

Intrastate trucking refers to goods being carried via commercial vehicle from one location to another within the same state. The goods never leave the state from which they originated during an intrastate trucking run.

What Is Interstate Trucking?

Interstate trucking refers to shipments originating from one state which are destined for another. During the shipment, the commercial vehicle will cross state lines; sometimes the trucks will travel across multiple states carrying a shipment. Interstate trucking may also refer to shipments moving from the United States to Mexico or Canada; in such cases, foreign authorities will be involved.

Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking

Both combinations of tractor trailers and cargo loads are classified for intrastate and interstate travel. Trucking companies must make sure not to confuse loads or mix up equipment. If inappropriate loads or equipment are involved in a truck accident, insurance issues can arise. Confusion may occur if a trucking company handles both interstate and intrastate truck shipments.

In the case of an accident, a trucking company’s insurance provider may refuse to pay claims because technically the vehicle wasn’t covered correctly due to the error. In such a case, the trucking company and trucking accident victims can experience extreme financial hardships.

The logistics of interstate and intrastate trucking companies and accident claims involving these commercial vehicles can be quite complex. It is in the best interest of accident victims to retain a personal injury attorney with experience dealing with lawsuits surrounding truck accidents.

Have you been injured in a truck accident? The Fort Worth truck accident lawyers at Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP can assist you. Our award-winning personal injury lawyers have many years of experience and are ready to review the details of your claim today.

Call us at (817) 920-9000 today to discuss your case.

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Seth Anderson, whose team has more than 50 years of combined legal experience in helping victims of personal injury seek justice.

Recent Blog Posts

Highway car accident.

What Drivers Should Know About Chisholm Trail Parkway Accidents

November 11, 2026

Drivers involved in a Chisholm Trail Parkway accident should know that unsafe lane changes, following too closely, speeding, distracted driving, merging, and changing roadway conditions can all contribute to a collision. The Parkway runs from Fort Worth through southern Tarrant County toward Cleburne, connecting communities including Fort Worth and Burleson....

Read Article
ATV rollover.

Common Causes of Serious ATV Accidents in Texas

November 04, 2026

Serious ATV accidents in Texas often result from careless or reckless riding, excessive speed, inexperience, impaired operation, improper passengers, unsafe terrain, or mechanical problems. These crashes can cause severe injuries because ATV riders don’t have the protection provided by an enclosed passenger vehicle. ATV riding is common on Texas ranches,...

Read Article
Two crashed cars.

How Dallas-Fort Worth Growth is Increasing Traffic Accident Risks

October 27, 2026

Dallas-Fort Worth’s rapid growth is putting more people, vehicles, construction activity, and development on North Texas roads, increasing traffic conflicts that can contribute to serious accidents. The North Central Texas region continues to add hundreds of thousands of residents, increasing demand on roads throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Fort Worth,...

Read Article

Request a Free Case Evaluation

Tell us about your accident and your injuries. An injury lawyer from our team will call and provide you with a free evaluation of your case. If we can help, and you are unable to travel, we will come to your home, office, or hospital. It’s easy – let’s get started.

  • Disclaimer

Give Us A Call

We are always available to discuss your case. Give us a call at (817) 920-9000.

Email Us Anytime

Email us anytime and we will get back to you.

We’ll Come To You

Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.

Available 24/7

Our team is ready and waiting to help you today.

Fort Worth, TX Office

4200 W Vickery Blvd
Fort Worth, TX 76107

Directions