Unlike everyday driving, trucking involves specific routes, height restrictions, weight limits, and hazardous cargo zones that standard GPS systems like Google Maps don’t account for. That’s why truck-specific navigation apps are often used to avoid wrong turns, restricted roads, and fines.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the top navigation providers for truckers. We’ll go over their pros and cons, how they work, system requirements, and how to purchase them so you can decide which one is best for your trucking business.
Why Truck-Specific Navigation is Important
When you drive a big rig, you can’t rely on Google Maps to get you where you need to go. Google Maps is designed for passenger cars and doesn’t consider the restrictions truckers face. Things like low bridges, weight restrictions, and narrow roads aren’t flagged in typical GPS systems, which can lead to costly mistakes like fines, damage to your truck, or even accidents.
Truck-specific GPS systems are designed to help you:
- Avoid restricted routes: Stay away from roads that can’t handle your truck’s size or weight.
- Save time: Find the most efficient routes that fit your needs, helping you meet delivery deadlines.
- Maximize profit: By taking the best routes, you can save on fuel and avoid delays that could cost you money.
How Truck GPS Systems Work
Truck GPS apps are similar to regular navigation systems but come with features tailored for commercial trucking. They offer truck-specific routing based on your truck’s dimensions (height, weight, length, etc.), and some even factor in the type of load you’re carrying (like hazardous materials).
These apps can also provide real-time updates on traffic, weather, and road conditions to help you avoid delays. Some even offer advanced planning features that allow you to map out multi-stop routes for more efficient delivery schedules.
The purchasing process usually involves downloading an app on your smartphone or tablet, and most systems require a subscription or one-time payment.
1. WeatherOptics
WeatherOptics is a navigation app that focuses on providing real-time weather data for truckers, helping you plan routes around dangerous weather conditions. It’s not a full GPS navigation tool on its own, but it works alongside other truck GPS apps to give you better visibility on upcoming weather hazards.
Pros:
- Real-time, detailed weather information.
- Helps avoid weather-related delays.
- Integrates well with other navigation systems.
Cons:
- Not a full standalone navigation app.
- Requires a subscription fee.
System Requirements: Available on most smartphones and tablets. You can download it from app stores and sync it with other GPS tools for weather-focused updates.
Purchasing: Subscription-based, with monthly or annual plans.
WeatherOptics is an excellent add-on for truckers who want to avoid weather-related issues that could delay deliveries or pose safety risks.
2. CoPilot / Trimble
CoPilot, owned by Trimble, is one of the most well-known truck-specific GPS systems. It offers highly detailed maps and accurate truck routing, with customizable settings for your truck’s size and load type.
Pros:
- Comprehensive truck routing based on vehicle dimensions.
- Offline maps available, so no internet connection is required.
- Can plan multi-stop routes and optimize them for fuel efficiency.
Cons:
- Subscription fees can be expensive.
- Some users report occasional routing issues in rural areas.
System Requirements: Compatible with both Android and iOS devices. CoPilot can also be used on in-cab navigation systems.
Purchasing: Subscription-based, with different pricing plans depending on the features you need.
CoPilot is perfect for truckers who need reliable, truck-specific routing with detailed map data that can work offline. It’s a great choice for long-haul drivers who regularly drive through areas with limited internet access.
3. TruckMap
TruckMap is a free navigation app designed specifically for truck drivers. It offers turn-by-turn navigation and routes that avoid truck-restricted roads. The app also provides information about truck stops, weigh stations, and parking.
Pros:
- Free to use.
- Avoids low bridges and restricted routes.
- Includes truck stop and weigh station information.
Cons:
- Fewer advanced features compared to paid apps.
- Can be less accurate in remote areas.
System Requirements: Available for iOS and Android devices.
Purchasing: Free to download and use, though it lacks some of the premium features of other apps.
TruckMap is ideal for truckers looking for a budget-friendly GPS app that still provides truck-specific routing and important location info like parking and weigh stations.
4. Sygic Truck GPS Navigation
Sygic Truck GPS Navigation is a popular navigation app that focuses on delivering highly accurate truck routes. It offers offline maps, real-time traffic information, and even includes voice-guided navigation.
Pros:
- Accurate truck-specific routes based on your truck’s dimensions.
- Offline maps for use without an internet connection.
- Voice-guided turn-by-turn directions.
Cons:
- Requires a one-time payment or subscription.
- Some users report minor glitches in remote areas.
System Requirements: Works on both Android and iOS devices. You can download the app from app stores.
Purchasing: You can either pay a one-time fee or subscribe to premium features.
Sygic is great for truckers who want a detailed and reliable navigation system that works without internet access and provides voice-guided directions for hands-free navigation.
5. SmartTruckRoute Truck GPS App
SmartTruckRoute is a GPS app designed specifically for truck drivers, offering real-time updates on traffic, road conditions, and weather. It allows you to enter your truck’s size and weight to create optimized routes and avoid restricted roads.
Pros:
- Real-time traffic and weather updates.
- Customized routes based on truck size and load.
- Voice-guided directions.
Cons:
- Requires a subscription, which can be pricey.
- Some users report that the user interface is a bit clunky.
System Requirements: Available for Android and iOS devices.
Purchasing: Requires a subscription for access to real-time updates and premium features.
SmartTruckRoute is an excellent choice for truckers who want to avoid traffic and weather delays while ensuring they stay on truck-approved roads.
6. Route4Me
Route4Me is a multi-stop route optimization app. While it’s not exclusively for truckers, it’s a great tool for anyone who needs to plan complicated delivery routes with multiple stops. You can input up to 10,000 stops, and the app will optimize your route for time and efficiency.
Pros:
- Multi-stop route optimization.
- Works for various types of deliveries and vehicles.
- Integrates with other GPS systems.
Cons:
- Not a truck-specific GPS, so it may not account for truck restrictions.
- Subscription required for advanced features.
System Requirements: Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
Purchasing: Subscription-based, with different pricing tiers depending on the number of stops and features you need.
Route4Me is ideal for drivers making deliveries with multiple stops, though it’s not as truck-specific as other apps.
How Better Navigation Helps
These GPS systems can make your job easier and help you run your business from your truck in several ways:
- Avoid fines: You can avoid costly fines and violations by steering clear of truck-restricted roads.
- Save time: With optimized routes, you’ll spend less time on the road, allowing you to fit in more deliveries or reduce fuel costs. On time deliveries, can also some times receive extra incentives from brokers.
- Fuel efficiency: Many of these apps can help you plan routes that maximize fuel efficiency, saving you money on fuel costs.
- Fewer delays: By avoiding traffic, poor weather, and low bridges, you can meet delivery deadlines and avoid losing out on future jobs.
A Navigation Solution For Every Trucker
Navigating without the proper tools can lead to costly mistakes, missed deadlines, and wasted fuel. But with the right GPS system, you’ll be able to save time, money, and avoid unnecessary headaches on the road.
Whether you want the comprehensive features of CoPilot, the real-time traffic and weather updates from SmartTruckRoute, or the budget-friendly simplicity of TruckMap, there’s a GPS solution out there for every trucker.