If there's one thing I've learned from talking to trucking friends (and some customers too), it's truck GPS apps.
I've learned from talking to trucker friends (and some customers too), is that the A normal car GPS is useless for trucks. .
And this may seem silly to someone who's never been on the road, but believe me: taking the wrong route can lead the driver to a dead end, a bridge that can't support the weight, or even a place prohibited for large vehicles.
I myself once gave a ride to an acquaintance who didn't own a truck, and during the conversation, he told me about the difficulties he had faced relying on standard navigation apps.
“Guilherme, I once took a country road thinking it was a shortcut… I lost three hours and almost got stuck!”, he said laughing, but with that look in his eyes that reminds him of the hard experience.
And this is where they come into play GPS apps for truck drivers , designed especially for those who live in the back seat.
They show safe routes, rest stops, height and weight limits, and even speed camera locations. If you work in transportation or know someone who does, heed the following tips.
Check out GPS Apps for Trucks…
1. Sygic Truck GPS Navigation
This is one of the most famous among truckers.
What makes it different is that you can configure the size, weight and type of truck , and calculates specific routes to avoid narrow streets, low tunnels and fragile bridges.
Another interesting thing is that it shows rest stops, rest areas and secure parking for large vehicles.
You can also use it offline, which is essential when you're in areas with no signal.
2. Trucker's Trail
This app is widely used in the United States, but there are already people in Brazil who are trying it and like it.
Trucker Path It has a community of drivers who share information in real time: such as where there are speed traps, where everything is stopped, where diesel is cheaper, etc.
The map is very complete and also shows Rest areas, restaurants, bathrooms, and even where there is Wi-Fi For those who spend days on the road, this makes a big difference.
3. PTV Navigator Truck
This is the most commonly used by logistics companies, but any driver can download it.
The idea is very similar to the others: avoid dangerous or unsuitable routes for trucks.
The strong point of PTV is that it integrates with companies' route systems , making it useful for those who work with scheduled deliveries or are part of a fleet.
It's quite accurate, especially in larger cities, and can be a good option for those who travel frequently in Brazil.
4. Google Maps in moderation
Yes, the old and good one google maps can still help, but with great caution .
It is not made for trucks, so if you are going to use it it is essential cross-reference the information with other applications, especially to know if the route is safe for your vehicle.
I often see a lot of people using Google Maps as a base and another truck driver app to make sure they don't get into trouble. It's the famous "second opinion."
Moments from the road
A truck driver once told me that, thanks to one of these apps, he avoided a closed mountain range and managed to divert to a safe route.
Said: “If it were just my phone's GPS, I would have been stuck and missed the entire day of work.”
And look, for those of us who make a living from delivery, time is money.
Last advice from a fellow traveler
If you work in transportation or know someone who travels by bus every day, You can't rely solely on standard GPS .
Download at least one of these apps, set it up correctly, and drive safely.
Oh, and if possible, keep two apps on your phone. One to follow and one as a backup, because you never know on the road.
Now it's your turn. Apply the handbrake, download the right apps, and drive smoothly. 🚛🛣️
GPS Apps for Trucks!
