Colorado Coverage Area

If you need transportation and logistics services for freight moving into or out of Colorado, ArcBest^® can help. With fully staffed service centers and door-to-door service that covers the state, we offer comprehensive solutions to streamline your supply chain. Learn more about our services or get a quote by calling 800-610-5544.

Facts about Colorado

• Population — 5,504,700 as of 2016
• Unemployment rate — 4.2 percent
• Job growth — 2.6 percent as of 2016
• Sales tax rate — 2.9 percent
• Income tax rate — 4.63 percent
   

Global Access From The Rockies

Colorado is known for its high elevation, a varying geography and a robust economy. The state is experiencing positive job growth and a rising population, giving it a business-friendly environment that encourages economic sustainability.

With borders shared by Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah and Arizona, the state is also a hub for commerce. Thanks to its central location and transportation system, Colorado is ideal for shipments bound for either domestic locations or international regions such as Canada.

Important Economic Components

Colorado has a growing economy and is a leader in many areas. The state primarily relies on agriculture, mining, tourism, manufacturing and government operations.

Agriculture

Agriculture is vital to Colorado’s economy, and the state is a national leader in livestock, wheat and corn production. Apples, hay and dairy products such as milk and cheese are also important products for the state. The agriculture industry contributes nearly $41 billion annually to state’s economy and provides nearly 173,000 jobs.

Mining

Mining is one of the largest areas of economic growth in the state, accounting for more than 73,000 jobs. The capital city of Denver is considered the mining capital of the United States, with several energy and mining companies operating there.

Tourism

Tourism is another large contributor to the state’s economy. It’s estimated that 77 million people visit Colorado each year, and tourism accounts for about 11 percent of the state’s jobs. Ski and mountain resorts, professional sporting events and business tourism, such as trade shows and conventions, make the state a popular spot for travelers and business professionals.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing and the food processing industry are also important to Colorado’s economy. The state’s primary manufactured products include scientific and medical instruments, electrical equipment and computer parts. The manufacturing sector is a growing field and accounted for a total of 143,000 jobs in 2015, according to research from the University of Colorado.

Federal Government Presence, Military and Scientific Research

The state is home to seven major military bases and many important federal government facilities, including the Denver Mint, the North American Aerospace Defense Command Center (NORAD) and the United States Air Force Academy. Several scientific research facilities such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the National Institute of Standards and Technology are also based in Colorado. As of 2013, the federal government supported 53,800 jobs in the state.

Transportation Options

Colorado has five interstates, 17 federal highways and a large network of state highways that provide access to all areas of the state — making ground transportation a great solution for businesses shipping freight. Rail, air and water are other popular options for transporting shipments. Colorado has 2,688 miles of Class I freight rail tracks, nearly 20 rivers whose headwaters begin in Colorado and two major airports. The Denver International Airport offers service to commercial flights and is the fifth busiest airport in the world. Colorado Springs Airport is the state’s second largest airport and also handles commercial flight service.