GPS and Other Routing Software

Posted in Trucker Lifestyle by Brian ·  

Long gone are the days when a truck driver had to pull off the side of the road to read a map or atlas to find out where they were going. They no longer have to worry about getting lost because GPS (Global Positioning System) and other routing software is available that can keep them on-route to reach their destination.

Thankfully, if you’re a truck driver, prices for a GPS has come down in recent years. Instead of having to pay between $500 and $1,300, prices have now been reduced quite a bit. In fact, you can now find GPS and other routing software starting at less than $100. Of course, if you’d like to spend over $1,000 for your GPS device, you can still find them on the market.

Most truck drivers are pleased with the smaller GPS devices. Not only can they help a driver maneuver their way through unfamiliar territory, they can also help you prepare your route ahead of time, decide upon scheduled stops along your route, and even help you find the quickest way to reach your destination. Best of all, they can help you get around traffic problems on major highways and interstates across the country.

All-in-all, having a GPS in your cab can help you cut operating costs, improve your delivery schedule, and help you be more efficient. Common GPS device manufacturers include Garmin, Cobra, Magellan, Pharos, and TomTom. Some drivers, however, prefer to use a laptop computer and their favorite mapping software such as Delorme, CoPilot, Microsoft Streets and Trips. Owner-operators may choose either of these types of routing systems because of the prohibitive cost of specialized software.

The routing and scheduling software that is specifically designed for the trucking industry may cost considerably more than anything available for the general public. They may also be provided by a trucking company for their drivers as long as the truck is company-owned.

If you aren’t sure about which GPS device or software is best for you as a truck driver, there are a few options to consider.

• What can you afford? If your budget is limited, one of the GPS devices might be what you need. They do a great job and won’t break your budget.
• Do you already have a laptop computer? If you have a laptop already, it might be easiest to purchase the software. These can usually be purchased for around $100, so they’re not too expensive.
• Does your company provide the software for you? If this is the case, all you have to do is ask them about having it installed on your truck.

You can compare prices of different systems online or look through consumer reporting magazines. No matter which you choose to buy, there’s no doubt that GPS and other routing software can make your job as a truck driver much easier.

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