GOOGLE MAPS FOR TRUCKING – GOOD, BAD, OR UGLY? Using the wrong navigation tool can land you in trouble. For example, the GPS platform can lead you down roads where your truck or commercial vehicle doesn’t fit, and turning around can be a challenge (or impossible). Plus, to maximize revenue, efficient routing is a must. Can you use Google Maps for Trucks, and if not, what are the best navigation apps to use? Google Maps is specifically configured for cars, and unfortunately, you can’t configure Google Maps for trucks. Using Google Maps for your trucking navigation needs isn’t going to do you any favors. Instead, use a proper trucking navigation app like TruckMap, TruckBook, TruckerPath, and Sygic. Ready to learn more about Google Maps, navigation for trucks, and the best trucking navigation apps? We’ve got all the information (and more!) you need right here. We’ve written about the best GPS units for truckers, the best GPS apps for Truckers, now it’s time to discuss the most popular GPS app in the world:Should You Use Google Maps for Trucks?Google Maps is a great navigation tool and app – that is, if you drive a non-commercial vehicle like a car. The data for Google Maps is specifically configured for these kinds of vehicles. If you drive a truck or another commercial vehicle, you may mistakenly think that Google Maps is suitable for you. However, when it comes to trucking, you need the best routing app possible since poor tuck route planning leads to: Delivery delays Higher operating costs Lower profitability Issues with routes and truck fit and more So in a pinch, you can probably get away with using Google Maps for your trucking needs, but honestly? You shouldn’t use this navigation app as there are much better choices out there. Can You Configure Google Maps for Trucks?Sadly, you can’t configure Google Maps or put it in “Truck Mode” if you drive a truck, heavy goods vehicle (HGV), or other commercial vehicles. Google Maps doesn’t accurately calculate truck travel time or distance or fit (when it comes to cities and narrow alleys). Pros and Cons of Using Google Maps for TrucksThere are some pros to using Google Maps when you drive commercial vehicles, but overall, there are many more cons that say, “Find a better GPS navigation app for your trucking needs.” ProsIt’s free Gives you the quickest route from point A to destination B (but doesn’t factor in truck-specific requirements) Can manually put in stops, but this is capped at 10 stops per route Real-time traffic conditions ConsDoesn’t consider the size of your truckDoesn’t take the heights of overpasses into account (#lowpass)Doesn’t look at the widths of (recommended) roads or loading areasDoesn’t account for differences in drive-time between trucks and cars Doesn’t have features so you can adjust the recommended road based on driver skill, service time, load type, or vehicle time Doesn’t take into account mandatory driving breaks or planned stopsLacks the automation truck drivers need Why Choose a Truck-Specific Navigation App? There are various other navigational app alternatives for truck drivers. Before we have a look at the best ones, a good truck GPS app should accurately give you: Truck driving times Truck distances (especially with long-haul routes)Automatic truck route planningOptimized routes for trucks Information on tolls Border crossing times Up-to-date truck restrictions on roadsPlaces to stop and take overnight breaks when you do a long-haul Live tracking so customers, clients, dispatchers, and fleet managers can track the truck in real-time and get accurate estimated times of arrival (ETAs) Information so you can avoid a fatal bridge strike or collapse A truck navigation app also ensures you avoid low clearance bridges and the hefty fines and truck repair costs that come with driving into one of these bridges. In essence, the best GPS app for trucks balances machine-learning and artificial intelligence with real-time data so you have the best of both worlds. The app should also be available on the App Store for iOS users and Google Play Store for Android smart device users. Other Navigational App Alternatives for TrucksHere are the best truck GPS apps you can use: TruckBookTruckBook is a GPS app for trucks that can be used by shippers, truck drivers, and owner operators. While you can use the app to find trucking jobs to help eliminate down-time and empty loads, the navigation system focuses on helping you get to your destination using optimized trucking routes. Key Features: Live trucking weather Live traffic updates Helps you find and detect parking stops, road closures, truck stops, truck scales, and weigh stationsUp-to-date truck maps TruckerPathAn all-in-one solution is what TruckerPath offers. It’s the app to use, whether you are a fleet owner, truck driver, or owner-operator. Key Features: Find the closest truck stops, weigh stations, fuel stops, and available parking Safe routing for trucks Trip planning Access to turn-by-turn navigation Night move navigation Forum for truckers – access to advice and share your ideas Sygic Truck Navigation System Another truck GPS platform is Sygic. The tool features tailor-made navigation for larger vehicles – from trucks and buses to vans and caravans. Key Features: Offline maps Custom routing Choose from 7 custom vehicle profiles Get traffic info, speed limit and speed camera warnings, and the latest fuel pricesHeads-up display Dynamic lane assist TruckMap TruckMap is a routing and revenue platform for truckers. The easy-to-use app features a map, navigational tools, and much more. Key Features: Truck-safe turn-by-turn routing and navigating Real-time traffic Alerts for weight restriction and low clearance Driver dispatch with live tracking, scheduling integration, and more Customize your vehicle’s profile to account for truck weight and height limits, “no through trucks,” steep inclines and declines, and more Final Thoughts on GPS Apps for Truck Drivers Choosing (and using) a truck-specific GPS route planner is non-negotiable for your trucking business. If you opt for the wrong navigation app, you won’t be able to meet the expected arrival times for deliveries as you’ll deal with delays and your revenue will be less as your truck will use more fuel. So while using Google Maps for trucks may seem like a great option, it isn’t. Rather stick to truck-specific GPS apps that optimize truck routes, give clients and customers accurate delivery arrival times, and ensure overall efficiency. After all, you want and need a safe and efficient driving experience. A navigation app for truck drivers gives you that in spades.
