Top Truck Stops Near Des Moines, IA

Top Truck Stops Near Des Moines, IA

For owner-operators, fleet drivers, and logistics professionals traveling through central Iowa, identifying reliable truck stops is essential for maintaining schedules, ensuring compliance, and supporting overall driver well-being. Des Moines, IA sits at the crossroads of major freight corridors, including Interstates 80 and 35, making it a strategic hub for commercial transportation.

Below are five reputable truck stops near Des Moines, IA that provide comprehensive amenities for heavy-duty operators, including fueling stations, parking, food services, and driver facilities.

Pilot Travel Center (Store #373) — Urbandale

Address: 11957 Douglas Avenue, Urbandale, IA 50322

Website: https://locations.pilotflyingj.com/us/ia/urbandale/11957-douglas-avenue

Pilot Travel Center on East Army Post Road is one of the most accessible truck stops for drivers traveling along I-35. It offers high-flow diesel lanes designed for commercial trucks, DEF at the pump, and CAT Scale services for accurate weight verification.

Amenities typically include:

• Ample truck parking
• Showers and restrooms
• Laundry facilities
• On-site dining options
• 24-hour service

Its proximity to major distribution routes makes it a consistent stop for both regional and long-haul drivers.

Love’s Travel Stop (Store #411) — Clive

Address: 11820 Hickman Road, Clive, IA 50325

Website: https://www.loves.com/locations/ia/clive/loves-travel-stop-clive-411

Located just minutes from Pilot, Love’s Travel Stop provides a full-service fueling station with diesel pumps engineered for heavy-duty trucks. Love’s is recognized for clean facilities and organized parking layouts, which are critical during high-traffic periods.

Key services include:

• Truck parking spaces
• CAT Scale access
• Showers
• DEF dispensing
• Food and beverage options
• Tire care services at select locations

Its consistent service standards make it a dependable option for compliance checks, rest breaks, and refueling.

Flying J Travel Center (Store #913) — Altoona

Address: 3231 Adventureland Drive, Altoona, IA 50009

Website: https://locations.pilotflyingj.com/us/ia/altoona/3231-adventureland-dr

Situated east of Des Moines in Altoona along I-80, Flying J Travel Center supports significant freight traffic moving across Iowa. This location offers extensive truck parking capacity and commercial fueling lanes capable of accommodating large tractor-trailer combinations.

Amenities include:

• High-speed diesel fueling
• Bulk DEF
• Truck maintenance supplies
• Showers and lounge areas
• CAT Scale services
• 24-hour access

Its strategic placement along Interstate 80 makes it particularly convenient for cross-country operators.

QuikTrip (Store #562) – Des Moines, IA

Address: 4801 NE 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50313

Website: https://locations.quiktrip.com/ia/des-moines/4801-ne-14th-st

Located along NE 14th Street in Des Moines, QuikTrip (Store #562) provides convenient diesel access for commercial drivers operating within the metro area. Its position near key connecting routes makes it a practical stop for regional haulers, local delivery fleets, and drivers needing efficient refueling without detouring far from primary freight corridors.

Key services include:

• Diesel fuel pumps
• Convenience store access
• Food and beverage options
• Clean restrooms
• Well-lit fueling area
• Air and basic automotive supplies

While not a large-scale travel center designed for extended stays, this location serves as an efficient fueling and quick-stop option for drivers moving through Des Moines who require dependable diesel access and streamlined in-and-out service.

Strategic Importance of Truck Stops in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines functions as a central logistics corridor within the Midwest. With heavy truck traffic flowing east-west on I-80 and north-south on I-35, access to dependable truck stops reduces operational risk and supports regulatory compliance.

Reliable truck stops provide:

• Fuel access with high-flow diesel pumps
• DEF availability for SCR-equipped engines
• Certified scales for GVWR and axle compliance
• Safe and designated parking
• Rest facilities that support driver hours-of-service requirements

Selecting the right stop can directly impact schedule adherence, equipment longevity, and overall operational efficiency.

Supporting Fleet Operations in Des Moines, IA

While truck stops are essential for fueling and rest, mechanical reliability remains equally important. Drivers operating in and around Des Moines benefit from planning service intervals in coordination with travel routes. Combining scheduled fueling stops with preventive maintenance strategies helps minimize unplanned downtime and roadside events.

For operators running consistent Midwest routes, understanding the layout and services of major truck stops near Des Moines enhances route planning and improves overall fleet performance.

If you are operating through central Iowa and require professional heavy-duty service or fleet support, contact Kustom Truck & Tire today.