Maryland IFTA Rates & Trucking Overview 2026
Baltimore is one of the top 10 US ports by cargo volume and a major auto import terminal. The I-95 corridor through Baltimore's Fort McHenry Tunnel is a critical Northeast freight bottleneck — tunnel tolls add to operating costs.
Major Maryland Trucking Routes
I-95 (Baltimore–DC–Virginia, Northeast Corridor), I-70 (Baltimore–Frederick–Hagerstown–West Virginia), I-83 (Baltimore–Pennsylvania), I-81 (Hagerstown–Pennsylvania/Virginia), I-68 (Cumberland–West Virginia)
Maryland IFTA — Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maryland's IFTA diesel tax rate in 2026?
Maryland's IFTA diesel rate is approximately 36.9¢/gal for 2026. The rate is indexed annually to CPI.
Who administers IFTA for Maryland-based carriers?
Maryland IFTA is handled by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). File quarterly at mva.maryland.gov. Maryland also has a vehicle weight fee structure for heavy commercial vehicles.
Does Baltimore's Fort McHenry Tunnel restrict certain cargo?
Yes. The Fort McHenry and Baltimore Harbor tunnels prohibit hazardous materials. Hazmat loads must use the I-695 beltway around Baltimore. This adds significant mileage for tankers and other hazmat carriers on the Northeast Corridor.
What are Maryland's major freight markets?
Baltimore port (autos, coal, sugar, forest products) is the #1 freight generator. The I-270 Tech Corridor generates significant high-value freight. Distribution centers along I-95 in the Baltimore–DC metro serve the dense Mid-Atlantic consumer market.