Technology has changed the trucking industry in countless ways. From digitized paperwork to advanced route planning and real-time tracking, modern innovations have streamlined operations and increased efficiency for truck drivers around the world.
Among these technological innovations, mobile apps have become indispensable tools for truckers, offering solutions that range from navigation and fuel optimization to regulatory compliance and load management.
Keep reading to find out more about some of the best mobile apps for truck drivers, and why you’ll want to download these before heading out on your next run.
Best Navigation Apps
Mobile apps have helped to make route optimization and achieving fuel efficiency accessible to every truck driver, no matter the distance traveled or freight carried.
Trucker Path: Truck GPS & Maps
Cost: Free with in-app purchases
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Trucker Path is a comprehensive directory and route-planning app that is used by over a million truckers. The app contains locations and information for truck stops, weigh stations, parking areas, CAT scales, and more. It also offers real-time updates and reviews from its large community of users.
Google Maps
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Although most drivers are likely already aware of Google Maps, this app is popular for good reason. Google Maps provides satellite views, real-time traffic updates, and rerouting options based on accidents or road closures. Perfect to supplement trucking-specific navigation apps, Google Maps is useful for checking out planned routes or looking for backup suggestions.
Waze
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Waze is another mobile app that isn’t specifically designed for truckers but can be a big help when on the road. Waze is a community-driven GPS navigation app that provides real-time traffic updates, turn-by-turn voice guidance, and crowdsourced data. It offers route optimization, alternative modes of transportation, and communication with fellow Wazers.
GasBuddy
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
GasBuddy is an essential app for truckers, helping to find the cheapest fuel prices anywhere in the country. Users can search for gas stations nearby, compare prices, and save money on fuel purchases.
Best Apps for Daily Use
TruckSmart
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
TruckSmart, created as a collaboration between TravelCenters of America (TA), Petro, and TA Express, provides real-time location updates and information about amenities at truck stops. It allows drivers to access their UltraONE account, redeem points, queue up for TA Truck Service, purchase showers, and request roadside assistance.
Weigh My Truck CAT Scale Company
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Weigh My Truck simplifies the weighing process for truckers. It allows drivers to weigh their trucks without leaving the cab, provides real-time weight data, and integrates with CAT Scale’s extensive network of certified scales across North America. The app also keeps a history of weigh-ins and offers easy payment options.
Trucker’s Slide Calc
Cost: Free with in-app purchases
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Trucker’s Slide Calc helps balance axle weights by simulating weights at different slide holes. Users can input axle weights and receive precise recommendations for adjusting their tandems depending on how much each is over or under. The app also suggests optimal slide positions to keep axles legal while maximizing efficiency.
Trucker Tools
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Trucker Tools, considered to have been “downloaded and used more than any other trucking app on the market,” is a comprehensive spot for finding and booking loads, planning routes, and locating cheap fuel and rest stops.
Adobe Fill & Sign
Cost: Free
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Keeping paperwork organized and up to date is an important part of trucking, and apps like Adobe Fill & Sign can play a large role in streamlining the process. This app can be used to fill in and obtain signatures on forms, digital or physical. Simply take a picture of a paper copy and it will be uploaded to the app for a digital signature.
Best Apps for Health, Wellness, and Entertainment
MyFitnessPal
Cost: Free with in-app purchases
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Maintaining an active lifestyle can be difficult when on the road. MyFitnessPal is a popular app used for reaching health, fitness, and weight goals while learning more about the food and exercise your body needs.
Rolling Strong
Cost: Free with in-app purchases
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Rolling Strong has similar features to MyFitnessPal, but is designed specifically for truck drivers. Focusing on driver health and wellness, the app offers fitness programs, nutrition guidance, and mental health resources
Audible
Cost: Free download and 30-day trial, $7.95 monthly subscription
Availability: App Store & Google Play Store
Long hours behind the wheel can get tiring, especially as an OTR driver. Audible is a great resource for access to millions of audiobooks, all available with a monthly subscription. Ranging in genres and length, Audible provides countless hours of entertainment for any driver.
What are your favorite trucking apps? If there are any ones we missed, be sure to connect with us on social media and let us know!
