For many truck drivers, the GPS built into smart phones just won’t cut it. Truckers have unique needs, and google maps doesn’t offer any features that accommodate that. Sure, you could splurge and purchase an expensive Garmin. But why waste the money when there are plenty of free navigation apps out there. The most essential part of your job is delivering your load safely and efficiently. So, what is the best navigation app for truckers that ensures a safe trip? Well, we’ve done the research and found the best of the best! Check out these top navigation apps to up your driving game.
1. Trucker Path
Trucker path takes the cake for the best navigation app for truckers. This app is free for all, and allows you to make additional in-app purchases for special features. Trucker Path was built by truckers, so they understand all the unique needs of truck driving. The best feature that it offers is the ability for you to set specific GPS navigation directions based on your truck. This app takes all the guess work out of picking a route. Customize your route based your truck’s type, height, weight, and width.
As if that’s not already enough for you – there’s more! Looking to avoid those particularly stressful parts of your trip? This navigation app for truckers allows you to filter out all the things you don’t like including low overpasses, narrow roads, and difficult sharp turns. Nothing is worse than pulling into a parking lot and realizing that there are no available spots. With this app, you can see real time updates on parking availability and won’t ever have to worry about securing an open spot ever again. Save some money by comparing fuel prices at different fuel stations. Once you find those stations with the lowest fuel prices, save them along your route in the app to easily access again. And if you ever get bored between driving shifts, head over to the trucker forum to get the latest scoop.
Trucker Path’s features are so expansive, you’ll just have to check it out for yourself!
2. TruckMap
TruckMap is competing for best navigation app for truckers, and it certainly isn’t lacking in features. This free app gives you access to tons of features, all within reach of your fingertips. This app’s navigation system was designed specifically for truckers. Here, you can input your truck’s weight, height, and width. The app saves this information and only suggestions routes that allows trucks with your specifications. You’ll never have to worry about being too heavy or too tall for bridges or low overpasses. The GPS also automatically avoids any roads that don’t allow trucks. Within the app, you can easily check if weigh stations are open or closed along your route.
It’s fair to say that no one likes driving in circles looking for the entrance to a parking lot. This is especially difficult if you are driving a large truck in an unfamiliar area. Easily look up the truck entry for your building to simplify your drop off and erase any extra hassle.
You have preferences when it comes to choosing where you stop. TruckMap has tons of filters that allow you to find the perfect location that meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for parking, fuel, convenience stores, showers, or laundry you’ll be sure to find what you’re searching for. You’ll also get access to driver reviews – perfect for reviewing places before you stop. Drivers have the ability to leave a thumbs up or thumbs down on a place based on different parameters such as:
- Parking available overnight
- Secured lot
- Clean restrooms
- Food available
- Well-lit area
- Good safety
- Easy access
This feature eliminates all the guess work that comes with stopping at a new location, and allows you to determine whether a place meets your needs before you pull over.
If you’re looking to simplify your life on the road, check out TruckMap!
3. TruckBook
If the other two navigation apps don’t include what you’re looking for and you’re still searching for the best navigation app for truckers – look no further. TruckBook is free, designed specifically with truckers in mind, and offers a host of different features. Similar to Trucker Path and TruckMap, TruckBook allows you to customize you route based on your personalized preferences. Enter your truck’s information and discover the best routes for your needs. This app also chooses the best route based on the current weather. With this navigation app, you’ll never worry about getting caught in a crazy snowstorm again!
There are a few unique features offered on TruckBook that sets it apart. For one, you will receive live weather alerts, traffic alerts, and active road closures. This feature gives you the power to make decisions for your own safety. If you’re alerted about an impending hurricane on your route, you’ll have enough notice to detour affected areas. You’ll also be able to avoid stand stills due to traffic accidents when you receive real time alerts and can quickly detour. Still on the fence about downloading the app? Maybe the truck database is enough to convince you! TruckBook has the largest database of truck repair shops – search for truck washes, oil changes, towing, tire repairs, and much more.
Download this app and explore all that it has to offer!
Think you found the best navigation app for truckers? We’d love to hear about your experiences, let us know in the comments!
June 5, 2022
Avoiding a tragic bridge hit, collapse, or other associated casualties can be made easier with a dedicated truck route GPS app. Include truck-specific updates and information to assist you in distinguishing truck-friendly routes from the others, allowing you to make more successful, timely, and cost-effective deliveries. Awesome!