Trucker Guide: I-4 Exit 44 (SR-559 / Polk City)
I-4 Exit 44 (SR-559 / Polk City) is a heavy hitter for drivers hauling between Tampa and Orlando.
Anchored by one of the largest Love’s facilities in the region, this interchange is a crucial stop for resets and fueling before hitting the Mouse Trap Disney traffic. As of 2026, it remains the premier logistics hub in Polk County.
Parking Availability & Type
One of the most reliable parking zones on the I-4 corridor. Chances of finding a spot here are significantly higher than exits closer to Tampa or Orlando.
Official Truck Stops:
Love’s Travel Stop #228
1800 FL-559, Auburndale, FL 33868
Ph:(863)984-7030
Details: ~160 paved spaces, 24-hour security, and bright lighting.
Polk City Travel Center (BP)
1821 State Rd 559, Polk City, FL 33868
Ph:(863)984-1918
Details: ~50 spaces. Excellent secondary option for reefers and staging.
State & Roadside Staging:
Polk County Rest Area (EB/WB): MM 46 (2 miles east). Dedicated truck pull-through slots and 24/7 security.
SR-559 North Shoulders: Wide enough for short-term staging (<1 hour). Warning: FHP actively discourages ramp parking.
Fuel Amenities (Diesel Specific)
Designed for high-volume commercial fueling with wide lanes.
High-Speed Pumps:
Love’s: 9 dedicated lanes with dual-sided pumping.
Polk City Travel Center: 7 commercial diesel lanes.
Bulk & Reefer:
Bulk DEF at the pump (Love’s). Both stations accept Comdata, EFS, Fleet One, and T-Check. Dedicated reefer fuel available at commercial islands.
Food & Driver Comfort
Options range from grab-and-go to local hot bars.
Arby’s: Inside Love’s. 24-hour service.
Subway: Inside Polk City Travel Center.
Polk City BBQ & Deli: Located inside the BP; popular for breakfast biscuits and hot food.
Amenities: 7 professional showers at Love’s; 2 basic showers at BP. High-capacity laundry and theater-style driver lounge at Love’s.
Clearance & Weigh Stations
| Location | Height |
|---|---|
| SR-559 Overpass (Bridge over I-4) | 16'1 |
| I-4 Mainline at SR-559 | 15'8 |
| Nearby Wildlife Crossing (1 mi East) | 15'2 |
Scales: CAT Scales on-site at both Love’s and Polk City Travel Center.
Weigh Station: Plant City EB (MM 14), ~30 miles west. No active scales between Exit 44 and Orlando.
Re-entry & Radius
Re-entry Score: 9/10.
Expanded ramps with long acceleration lanes. Easy merge even at 80,000 lbs.
Radius Alert: Love’s entrance is wide, but watch for cars exiting the Arby’s drive-thru. BP entrance is tighter; watch tandems on high curbs.
Service, Repair & Washout
Love’s Truck Care
Ph: (863)984-7030
DOT inspections, tires, oil, and light mechanical. 24/7 roadside available.
Blue Beacon Wash
Adjacent to Love’s.
High-volume washout. Check app wait times before pulling in.
USA Tank Wash
Ph:(863) 422-9542
Specialized trailer washout and tank cleaning services.
Traffic Flow & Local Landmarks
- The Green Swamp Stretch: 10-mile stretch east of Exit 44 with no exits. Heavy wildlife activity and early morning fog.
- Polytechnic Landmark: The futuristic white dome of Florida Polytechnic University is visible just to the west.
- The Merging Lane: Watch for heavy merging traffic from the Polk Parkway just west of the exit.
FAQ: Driver Quick-Hits
Is there a trailer washout at Exit 44?
Yes, Blue Beacon and USA Tank Wash both operate at this exit, making it the primary cleaning hub for the region.
Can I get a DOT inspection here?
Yes, Love’s Truck Care at this exit is certified for Level I, II, and III DOT inspections.
Is there overnight parking at the Rest Area?
Yes, the Polk County Rest Area (MM 46) allows for overnight parking for commercial vehicles up to 10 hours.