The navigational needs of a truck driver are vastly different from
those of the average commuter. Simply put, transports can’t fit everywhere that
a Smart Car can. Those tiny cars might be fine to zip through Manhattan and
squeeze into the last known parking spot in the metropolis, but good luck in
your big rig.
It is important to choose a system that is
specifically designed for a truck driver’s needs. Standard consumer GPS systems
are not equipped to handle the unique routing requirements of trucks, simply
because they are not designed to take into account the specific dimensions and
weight restrictions of these vehicles. Using a GPS system that is not designed
for trucking can result in the driver being directed down roads that are not
suitable for their vehicle, which can be dangerous and result in costly damage
or fines.
Truck-specific
GPS systems are programmed with information about the size and weight
limitations of different roads, bridges, tunnels, as well as other factors that
could impact a truck’s route, such as low clearance. They also include a
database of trucking-specific points of interest, such as truck stops and rest
areas. Other notable points about trucker GPSs include the larger screen size,
live traffic update capabilities, weather alerts, built-in dash cams, and even
some with a fatigue warning system.
With those things in mind, let’s take a
look at five recommended truck-driver-specific GPSs.
● Garmin dezl 780 LMT-S – This GPS system is specifically designed for truck drivers and has a
large 7-inch display, truck-specific routing, and a built-in dash cam. It also
includes trucking-related points of interest and a fatigue warning feature to
help keep drivers alert on long hauls.
●
Rand McNally OverDryve Pro – This GPS system
has a 7-inch display and features truck-specific routing, a trucking-specific
points of interest database, and a built-in dash cam. It also includes features
like live traffic updates, weather alerts, and a trip planner.
●
TomTom Trucker 620 – This GPS system has a
6-inch display and features truck-specific routing, a trucking-specific points
of interest database, and a built-in dash cam. It also includes features like
live traffic updates, weather alerts, and a fatigue warning system.
●
CoPilot Truck GPS – This GPS system has a
7-inch display and features truck-specific routing, a trucking-specific points
of interest database, and a built-in dash cam. It also includes features like
live traffic updates and a trip planner.
●
Magellan Trucker GPS – This GPS system has a
7-inch display and features truck-specific routing, a trucking-specific points
of interest database, and a built-in dash cam. It also includes features like
live traffic updates, weather alerts, and a fatigue warning system.
Be sure to use a truck-specific GPS to
help keep you safe on the roads. Today’s GPS systems are equipped to enter your
vehicle’s size and weight specifications to ensure you are safely routed to
your destination. Travel smart to make it to your destination faster, with
fewer challenges.