What is a Truck GPS and Why is it Essential?
- A truck GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a device specifically designed for truck drivers, providing them with the right information to make their journeys safer and more efficient. But why exactly is it so essential?
- Well, a truck GPS goes beyond the simple navigation capabilities of regular GPS systems. It offers specialized features that are crucial for large vehicles like trucks. Such features include custom routing based on the size and weight of your truck, real-time traffic and weather updates, and points of interest tailored for truckers.
Difference Between Regular GPS and Truck GPS
- You might wonder: what makes a truck GPS so different from the GPS system I use in my car? Isn't it all about getting from point A to point B?
- While that's essentially true, there's a lot more to consider when you're driving a truck. For example, truck GPS systems have detailed maps and routing options that account for truck-restricted routes, bridge heights, and weight limits. Regular GPS systems typically don't include these considerations, which can lead to problematic, or even dangerous, situations for truck drivers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Truck GPS
- Choosing the best truck GPS isn't a decision to take lightly. You need to consider several factors to make sure you're getting a device that suits your specific needs. Let's break it down:
Screen Size and Resolution
An ideal truck GPS should have a large, clear screen for easy map viewing and instructions. A device with a poor resolution or small screen could lead to misinterpretations, which can be dangerous on the road.
Mapping and Routing Features
A top-notch truck GPS should offer detailed maps with real-time updates. It should also provide customizable routing options based on your truck’s specifications and load.
Traffic and Weather Updates
The best truck GPS systems offer real-time traffic and weather updates. These features can help you avoid traffic jams or dangerous weather conditions, ensuring a safer and more efficient trip.
Voice Command Features
Voice commands are a convenient feature that allows you to control the device without taking your hands off the wheel. It’s an essential safety feature for any truck GPS.
Top 5 Truck GPS Systems in 2023
- Let's now take a look at the best truck GPS systems available in the market today.
Garmin dezl OTR 700 Truck GPS
Garmin dēzl OTR700
Ratings
- Amazon's Top-Selling GPS
- Best Buy rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Pros & Cons
- Pros: User-friendly, excellent high-resolution screen, easy route planning
- Cons: Occasional inaccuracies in alerts and updates, software glitches
Notable Features
- 7-inch touchscreen with a high-resolution display
- Custom truck routing (available in some areas) based on truck size and weight
- Alerts for bridge height, sharp curves, and other road conditions
- Parking information along routes
- Directory of truck and trailer services, including truck stops and amenities
- Load-to-dock guidance with loading zones and storage lots
- "Most popular routes" feature
- Voice control
- Compatibility with Garmin ELD for Hours of Service Recording
- Automatic route updates with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Preloaded maps for the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Bahamas
Rand McNally TND 740 Truck GPS
Rand McNally TND 740
Ratings
- Best Buy: 3.3 out of 5 stars
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Relatively simple with minimal software bugs, quick route updates via Wi-Fi connectivity
- Cons: No camera, no specialized routing for hazmat loads
Notable Features
- User-friendly interface
- 7-inch screen
- Advanced lane guidance in 3D
- Live traffic and weather updates via Wi-Fi connectivity
- Display preferences and customizable warnings
- Compatible with Rand McNally ELD
- Estimated toll costs
- Navigation for the U.S. and Canada
Garmin dezl 580 Truck GPS
Garmin dēzl 580 LMT-S
Ratings
- Best Buy: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy configuration for different truck sizes/weights, smartphone compatibility, free map updates, voice activation
- Cons: No notable cons other than common complaints shared by all GPS units (imperfect optimization of routes, outdated roads and buildings)
Notable Features
- 5-inch or 7-inch screen options
- Traffic and weather forecasts
- Customized truck routing based on size and weight
- Alerts for upcoming height and weight restrictions, sharp turns, steep grades, and other route features
- Suggestions for nearby restaurants, rest areas, gas stations, parking, and weigh stations
- Truck and trailer services directory
- Voice activation
- Automatic route updates with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Preloaded street maps for the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Bahamas
Rand McNally TND 750 Truck GPS
Rand McNally TND 750
Ratings
- Best Buy: 3.3 out of 5 stars
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Customizable navigation tools, mileage and fuel tracking
- Cons: Tricky interface for new users, potential complications with charging
Notable Features
- 7-inch screen with 800 x 1280 pixel resolution
- Real-time traffic updates and weather overlays
- Detailed routes with 3D renderings of buildings
- Mileage and fuel tracking
- On-screen alerts
