Best Truck GPS Navigators That’ll Make Your Road Trip Easier

If you’ve ever found yourself cursing at your GPS for sending you down yet another impossibly narrow side street, you know it’s time to get the best navigation system for truckers. Truck drivers need the best truck GPS for accurate guiding through bridge heights, weight restrictions, and road widths, not just the shortest distance.

After testing countless models over many miles, we’ve discovered the 6 best GPS for truckers guaranteed to make your journeys easier. These user-friendly gadgets have loads of features optimized for truck driving. 

What is A Truck GPS?

A truck GPS (Global Positioning System) is a navigation device specifically designed for use by truck drivers and commercial vehicles. It provides navigation and routing information tailored to the unique requirements of trucks, such as their size, weight, height, and cargo type.

Unlike standard GPS devices meant for personal navigation, the best truck GPS units take into account restrictions and regulations that apply to commercial vehicles, ensuring that drivers are directed along routes that are safe and legally permissible.

A truck GPS works by utilizing a network of satellites, along with specialized software and mapping data, to determine your vehicle’s precise location and calculate the optimal route to your destination.

Satellite signals: The foundation of GPS technology is a constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites emit signals containing information about their positions and the precise time the signals were transmitted.

Receiver in the GPS device: The GPS device, in this case, the truck GPS, contains a receiver that picks up signals from multiple satellites in its line of sight.

Trilateration: By receiving signals from at least four satellites, the GPS device can determine its exact location through a process called trilateration. Trilateration involves measuring the time it takes for signals to travel from the satellites to the device. Since the signals travel at the speed of light, the GPS device can calculate the distance to each satellite.

Calculating position: Once the distances to the satellites are known, the GPS device uses triangulation to determine its precise location. It identifies where the circles representing the distances intersect, pinpointing its latitude, longitude, and altitude coordinates.

Mapping and routing: Once the GPS device knows your current location, it accesses a digital map database. This database contains information about roads, highways, streets, landmarks, points of interest (POIs), and more. The software calculates the best route to your destination based on your vehicle type, preferences, and any additional information you’ve inputted (such as vehicle dimensions and weight).

Real-time navigation: As you drive, the GPS device continually receives signals from satellites to update your position in real time. The software compares your actual location to the planned route and provides turn-by-turn instructions to guide you along the most efficient path. It also takes into account traffic conditions and potential obstacles to offer route adjustments.

Display and user interface: The GPS device presents navigation information on its screen, which could be a portable device, an in-dash system, or even a smartphone app. The user interface shows maps, upcoming turns, distance to the next maneuver, estimated time of arrival, and other relevant details. Some systems also provide voice-guided instructions to enhance driver safety.

Advanced GPS systems can stay up-to-date with real-time traffic and weather information, thanks to their data connectivity. GPS devices need regular updates to their maps and software to ensure accuracy. Manufacturers release updates for GPS devices to add new roads, changes in traffic patterns, and points of interest (POIs).

Is Truck GPS Worth It?

Using a truck GPS for road tripping offers numerous advantages that can greatly enhance the overall experience, safety, and efficiency of your journey, especially when driving a large commercial vehicle or an RV. 

One of the primary benefits is the provision of truck-specific routing. These GPS systems take into account critical factors such as the vehicle’s height, weight, length, and cargo. This feature ensures that you are directed away from roads with low bridges, weight restrictions, and other obstacles that could pose challenges to your vehicle’s size.

In addition to avoiding hazards related to size limitations, truck GPS systems include valuable information about potential road dangers such as sharp curves, steep grades, and tight turns. This comprehensive hazard awareness helps ensure a safer and smoother journey, particularly when driving a larger or less maneuverable vehicle.

Efficiency in routing is another key advantage of using a truck GPS. These devices factor in real-time traffic congestion, road closures, and construction zones, offering timely updates and suggesting alternative routes to help you save both time and fuel costs. Furthermore, the accurate arrival time estimates provided by these GPS systems allow you to better plan your stops and breaks along the route.

Truck GPS systems come equipped with points of interest (POIs) specifically tailored to larger vehicles. These include information about truck stops, rest areas, fuel stations, and other amenities suitable for your vehicle type. The inclusion of height and weight warnings is particularly valuable, as it helps you avoid scenarios involving low-clearance areas, weight-restricted bridges, and other potential obstacles that might be hazardous for your vehicle.

The customization feature of many truck GPS systems allows you to input your vehicle’s specific dimensions and weight, ensuring that the routing is precisely tailored to your vehicle’s unique specifications. Voice guidance further enhances the ease of navigation by providing turn-by-turn instructions while allowing you to keep your focus on the road.

Using a truck GPS instills a sense of confidence as you travel, knowing that you are on a route optimized for your vehicle’s dimensions and needs, especially in unfamiliar territories. Moreover, the incorporation of truck-specific routes lessens stress by eliminating uncertainties associated with navigating through unfamiliar roads.

For commercial vehicle drivers, regulatory compliance is a significant consideration. Truck GPS systems help maintain adherence to local laws by offering routing that considers weight limits and other regulations.

Types of Truck GPS

Standalone Truck GPS Devices

These are dedicated portable devices that are specifically designed for truck navigation. They usually have larger screens compared to regular GPS units and are intended to be placed on the dashboard or windshield of the vehicle.

Standalone truck GPS devices come with truck-specific features like routing for larger vehicles, height and weight restrictions, and truck-related points of interest. They are suitable for independent truck drivers who may use different vehicles for various jobs.

In-Dash Truck GPS Units

In-dash GPS units are integrated directly into the dashboard of the vehicle. They offer a more streamlined and permanent navigation solution compared to portable devices.

These systems are often larger and provide a more seamless experience as they are part of the vehicle’s infotainment system. In-dash truck GPS units can offer truck-specific routing, traffic updates, and other features relevant to truck drivers. They are commonly found in RVs or larger commercial vehicles.

Truck GPS Apps

These are navigation applications designed to run on smartphones or tablets. Truck GPS apps utilize the device’s built-in GPS and provide truck-specific routing information.

They are convenient because drivers can use their existing devices, and these apps are often updated frequently to include the latest road information. Some popular truck GPS apps include CoPilot Truck, Sygic Truck GPS Navigation, and Google Maps with truck-specific settings.

Best Truck GPS Reviews: Top 6 Products

What is the best GPS for truck drivers? We’ll share our experiences with these best truck GPS systems so you can find the perfect one. 

1. Garmin dezl OTR800 GPS Truck Navigator

At a glance:

• Screen size: 8 inches
• Resolution: 1280 x 800
• Map type: North America
• Mounting option: Magnetic mount
• Battery life: 2 hours

Why we love it:

The dezl OTR800 is the best Garmin truck GPS currently available in the market. The device has a large screen with a high resolution. So, you can read the instructions even in direct sunlight. 

The North America maps are accurate, guiding truckers seamlessly through their routes. A real-time traffic monitoring feature lets you avoid delays by offering alternate routes. This saves time and frustration.

The magnetic mounting makes installation a breeze in any truck, and the 2 hour battery life means you can easily take it with you on the go. 

You can tweak the voice, language, and display settings as you like. Whether walking, biking, or driving, the versatile navigation will get you there. 

With quick charging and hassle-free updates, the dezl OTR800 has thought of everything a trucker needs to navigate unfamiliar territory. It could arguably be the best truck GPS for truckers across North America.

Pros

• Large 8-inch display with high resolution for clear maps
• North America maps are detailed and accurate
• Real-time traffic monitoring helps avoid congestion
• Customizable voice, language, and display settings
• Versatile navigation for walking, biking, or driving
• Fast charging and wireless updates

Cons

• The device runs on Android 6, making it hard to find compatible apps
• It doesn’t have an integrated calculator

2. Rand McNally TND 750 7-inch GPS Truck Navigator

At a glance:

• Screen size: 7 inches
• Resolution: 800 x 1200
• Map type: Street, North America
• Mounting option: Magnetic mount

Why we love it:

The Rand McNally TND 750 could be the best commercial truck GPS system. Make it your road trip companion for its robust hardware and advanced navigation features. 

The high-resolution 7-inch display provides good clarity while viewing maps. And the bright, high-contrast colors allow you to read everything at a glance. 

The best trucking GPS system has detailed North America maps to keep drivers on track. The real-time traffic updates are good for saving time on the road. Dynamic weather overlays display current conditions throughout your route. And improved WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allows for fast over-the-air updates and connections. 

The interface is thoughtfully designed for truckers, with on-screen alerts for speed limit changes, sharp turns, and more. Built-in tools for tracking mileage and fuel logs allow you to calculate fuel economy on the go. 

Enhanced thermal resistance protects the device in extreme temperatures. The fast hexa-core processor delivers quick response times and seamless graphics as you navigate. And a strong magnetic mount keeps the TND 750 securely in place in any truck.

Navigate the North American roads with the best truck GPS. Its intuitive interface and advanced features make your life on the open road easier. 

Pros

• Real-time traffic updates help avoid delays
• Show current weather conditions
• On-screen alerts for speed limits, turns, etc.
• Mileage and fuel log tools
• Rugged hardware built for life on the road

Cons

• The map feature has some inaccuracies
• Many users complained about shorter battery life

3. TomTom Trucker 620 6-Inch GPS Navigation Device

At a glance:

• Screen size: 6 inches
• Map type: Truck Map, North America
• Mounting option: Active magnetic mount (dashboard)

Why we love it:

The TomTom Trucker 620 is the best trucker navigation device for truck drivers looking for an easy-to-use and reliable companion. A combination of customized truck routing, real-time traffic avoidance, and robust mapping makes this device the right choice for optimizing driving and safety.

The pre-installed truck maps for the USA and Canada are incredibly detailed, helping drivers avoid restricted routes and low bridges. But what really sets the navigator apart is the customized truck routing feature. By inputting your vehicle specs, it provides routes tailored to your size, weight, cargo, and speed. This takes the guesswork out of unfamiliar routes and gives you realistic arrival times.

Real-time traffic monitoring makes it the best truck GPS. You can steer clear of congestion, ensuring the fastest routes. Regular free map updates mean you always have the most up-to-date maps at your fingertips. Convenient updates via WiFi eliminate the need for a computer.

The best truck driver GPS has an active magnetic mount for an easy installation. Voice activation lets you access Siri or Google Now hands-free. The TomTom Trucker 620 can even read smartphone messages aloud, so you keep your eyes on the road.

While the processor may lag at times, the easy-to-use interface and customized routing features make the TomTom Trucker 620 a favorite for truckers. Its reasonable price point makes this a top choice for truck drivers prioritizing navigation simplicity and reliability.

Pros

• Customized truck routing for size, weight, etc.
• Real-time traffic avoidance
• Updates via WiFi, no computer needed
• Active magnetic mount for easy installation
• Voice activation for hands-free use
• Reasonable price

Cons

• Processor can be sluggish at times
• No notifications for upcoming weigh stations
• Screen is smaller at 6 inches

4. OHREX N700 GPS Navigation for Car, Truck, RV

At a glance:

• Screen size: 7 inches
• Resolution: 800 x 480
• Map type: Canada, America, Mexico
• Mounting option: Suction cup mount (Dashboard)
• Battery life: 2 hours

Why we love it:

The OHREX N700 GPS is the best navigation for truckers looking for an affordable navigation device. With its 7-inch display and pre-installed detailed maps of North America, it provides the essential features truckers need to navigate unfamiliar routes confidently.

The 800 x 480 pixel resolution delivers a bright, crisp image that makes viewing directions simple, even in direct sunlight. The screen is large enough to display turns and maps clearly at a glance. The included suction cup mount secures the device firmly on the dashboard or windshield of any truck.

While the 2 hour battery life means it may need recharging on longer hauls, the basic navigation features work smoothly. The best truck GPS speaks street names aloud in a loud, clear voice so you never miss a turn. The maps are optimized to avoid sudden lane changes or missed turns.

However, some downsides are that turn announcements can come quite late, so keeping an eye on the map screen is advised. The pre-installed screen protector is also highly reflective in sunlight. But for truckers seeking an affordable GPS with essential navigation features and easy usability, the OHREX N700 is a great choice. 

Pros

• Pre-installed detailed North America maps
• The screen displays bright, crisp image
• Suction cup mount secures device on dashboard
• Optimized to avoid missed turns
• Affordable

Cons

• Turn announcements can come very late
• Pre-installed screen protector is highly reflective
• No advanced navigation features

5. LOVPOI GPS Navigation for Truck, Car

At a glance:

• Screen size: 9 inches
• Resolution: 800 x 480
• Map type: North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
• Mounting option: Suction cup mount (Dashboard)
• Battery life: 2 hours

Why we love it:

The LOVPOI GPS Navigation system is a top pick for truckers, thanks to its extra large 9-inch display and preloaded North America maps. The high-visibility 800 x 480 resolution screen provides stunningly clear directions at a glance.

The detailed maps cover the USA, Canada, and Mexico and include customized truck routing based on vehicle size and weight. This prevents frustrations from accidentally taking restricted routes. Voice alerts provide ample warning for upcoming hazards like low bridges, sharp turns, and railroad crossings.

Setting up the suction cup mount on the dashboard takes seconds, and the screen’s expansive size means maps are readable from any angle. Over 40 language options allow choosing the ideal voice for turn-by-turn instructions. This hands-free experience reduces driving fatigue and increases safety.

The built-in FM transmitter amplifies navigation prompts through the vehicle’s speakers for added clarity. Drivers can stay away from the busy routes, thanks to the real-time traffic monitoring. Free lifetime map updates ensure access to the most up-to-date routes.

Pros

• Large 9-inch display for high visibility
• Customized truck routing for size and weight
• Easy suction cup mounting
• 40+ language options for voice instructions

Cons

• No support for importing favorites
• Doesn’t sync with trip planning software
• No weigh stations, state lines, rest stops, mile markers

6. XGODY Truck GPS Navigation

At a glance:

• Screen size: 9 inches
• Resolution: 800 x 480
• Map type: North America
• Mounting option: Dashboard mount

Why we love it:

Truckers looking for an affordable large-display GPS will love the user-friendly navigation of the XGODY X5. Its 9-inch high-resolution screen provides awesome visual clarity for easy viewing of maps and directions. The 800×480 resolution results in a sharper image that reduces eye strain.

The preloaded detailed maps of North America are optimized for truck routing. You can customize routes based on vehicle size specifications to avoid restricted roads. This prevents frustrations from low bridges and narrow widths. 

The best truck GPS has a simple menu system that makes navigating unfamiliar areas straightforward. Turn-by-turn voice guidance helps you keep your eyes on the road. The dashboard mount allows flexible positioning to reduce glare.

However, the lack of automatic map updates means relying on intermittent upgrades from the company. Some users also find the maps inaccurate at times compared to premium brands. But for an affordable large display GPS tailored to trucker needs, the XGODY X5 nails the basics like size, resolution, and straightforward navigation. 

Pros

• Large 9-inch high resolution display
• Customizable truck routing for size
• Turn-by-turn voice guidance
• Dashboard mounting for flexibility
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Lacks automatic map updates
• Some inaccuracies in maps
• No advanced navigation features

How to Choose A Truck GPS: Buying Criteria

Display types

GPS systems for truck drivers come with a variety of display types to meet different user preferences. This factor can have a significant impact on the user experience, visibility, and ease of navigation. 

• LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): LCD displays are the most common type of display used in GPS devices. They offer good visibility in various lighting conditions and provide decent color reproduction. However, some LCD screens may have limited viewing angles.
• LED (Light Emitting Diode): LED displays are becoming increasingly common in GPS devices. They are more energy-efficient than LCD displays and offer improved color saturation and brightness. LED displays are often found in more advanced and higher-end GPS systems.
• Touchscreen: Touchscreen displays are becoming increasingly common in GPS devices. They allow users to interact with the device by tapping, swiping, and pinching. Touchscreen displays can enhance user-friendliness and make navigation more intuitive.

If you are looking for a system with a large, high-resolution display, a capacitive touchscreen may be the best option. If you are on a budget, a resistive touchscreen may be a better choice. And if you need a system with good viewing angles, a wide-angle display may be the best option.

Screen sizes

• Small screens (4 to 5 inches): These screens are compact and easy to mount in vehicles with limited dashboard space. They are a good option for drivers who want a simple and minimalist navigation system.
• Medium screens (5 to 7 inches): These screens are the most common size for truck GPS systems. They offer a good balance of visibility and ease of installation.
• Large screens (7 to 10 inches): These screens offer the best visibility, especially for trucks where the GPS device might be mounted further away from the driver. The GPS with a large screen is a good option for truck drivers who want a more immersive navigation experience. 

If you are looking for a system that is easy to mount and does not take up too much space, a small screen may be a good option. If you want a system with good visibility, a medium or large screen may be a better choice. So consider your preferences, the available space on your vehicle’s dashboard to choose the right GPS for your truck.

Mounting options

Mounting options for truck GPS devices are essential for ensuring visibility, convenience, and safety while navigating on the road. The type of mounting option you choose depends on factors such as your vehicle’s interior layout, your preferences, and the specific GPS device you’re using.

• Windshield mounts: These are popular for their easy installation and visibility. They attach to the windshield using suction cups and provide a clear line of sight for the driver. Make sure the mount does not obstruct your view or violate any local laws.
• Dashboard mounts: These use adhesive or non-slip materials to secure the GPS device on the dashboard. They offer a lower profile than windshield mounts and can be a good option if you prefer the device to be closer to your line of sight.
• Permanent mounts: These involve drilling holes in the dashboard or other parts of the vehicle to secure the GPS device. These mounts provide a sturdy installation but are not suitable for leased vehicles or if you prefer a less permanent solution.

If you are looking for a system that is easy to install and remove, a dashboard mount may be a good option. If you want a system that is secure and durable, a permanent mount may be a better choice.

Mapping and navigation

Mapping and navigation are another two essential features of the best GPS for truckers, providing users with a comprehensive set of tools for accurate and efficient travel.

• Mapping involves storing and continuously updating geographical data, such as roads, landmarks, and points of interest. This information is displayed on the device’s screen in a variety of views, including turn-by-turn navigation instructions. Real-time points of interest can also be displayed to help users plan stops and find services along the way.
• Navigation uses mapping data to provide users with smooth and seamless route guidance. Dynamic route calculations take into account real-time traffic conditions, so users are directed away from congestion and delays. Truck-specific routing is also available, taking into account vehicle dimensions, weight limitations, and hazardous materials regulations. Voice guidance is another safety feature that provides audible prompts, allowing drivers to focus on the road.

Additionally, the best truck GPS systems offer alternative routes when faced with road closures or disruptions. The offline map feature also makes it possible to navigate in areas with limited connectivity. So look for a system with regular map updates to ensure the data is current.

Real-time traffic and weather

Real-time traffic and weather updates are essential when looking for GPS systems for truck-specific navigation. These features provide drivers with current insights into road conditions and weather forecasts, helping them make informed decisions and navigate effectively.

Real-time traffic updates are collected from a variety of sources, such as traffic sensors, GPS probes, road cameras, and incident reports. This data is constantly monitored to assess traffic flow and disruptions, so that optimal routes can be determined and alternatives can be suggested to save time.

GPS systems often use color-coded overlays on maps to visually represent traffic conditions. Green indicates normal traffic flow, yellow indicates moderate congestion, and red indicates heavy traffic. This makes it easy for drivers to quickly understand the traffic situation.

Audible and visual alerts keep drivers informed about traffic incidents and allow them to make route adjustments. These real-time traffic updates not only recalibrate estimated times of arrival based on current conditions, but they also help drivers avoid traffic jams and optimize fuel consumption and travel time.

Real-time weather updates on trucking GPS systems use meteorological data to show drivers the current weather conditions. This feature can be used to provide timely alerts about severe weather events, so drivers can adjust their behavior and routes accordingly.

Some GPS systems even consider weather when suggesting routes. For example, if inclement weather is anticipated, the system might suggest alternative paths that are less likely to be affected by the weather. Additionally, these systems can help drivers plan rest stops during adverse weather conditions, which can help to improve safety on the road.

Points of Interest

Points of Interest (POIs) in a truck GPS refer to specific locations, landmarks, or businesses that are relevant and useful to truck drivers. These are places where truck drivers might need to stop for rest, refueling, maintenance, or other purposes during their journeys.

Truck-specific GPS devices often include a wide range of truck-specific POIs to make the navigation and travel experience more convenient for commercial drivers. Here are some of the most common types of POIs found in truck GPS systems:

Truck stops: Truck stops are essential for long-haul drivers to take breaks during their trips. They offer a variety of amenities, including parking, refueling, showers, and dining facilities.

Rest areas: Rest areas along highways provide spaces for drivers to pull over, rest, and take breaks. Truck-friendly rest areas have ample parking space for larger vehicles.

Weigh stations: Weigh stations are checkpoints where trucks are inspected for compliance with weight regulations. Truck GPS systems often include information about these stations to help drivers plan their routes and comply with regulations.

Fuel stations: Truck-specific fuel stations are equipped to accommodate larger vehicles and provide the necessary fuel for long journeys.

Repair shops: Truck GPS devices might include locations of repair shops that offer services for trucks, including maintenance, repairs, and other mechanical assistance.

Truck-friendly restaurants: These are restaurants that have parking spaces suitable for trucks and are often located near major highways.

Truck-friendly parking: This is parking that is specifically designed for trucks. It is often wider than regular parking spaces and has more clearance.

Truck services: Truck services like tire shops, truck washes, and other truck-related businesses are included to help drivers find the assistance they might need.

Hotels and Lodging: Truck-friendly hotels or motels with ample parking space for trucks are important for drivers who need to rest overnight.

Price

The cost of a truck GPS system can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, features, capabilities, and whether it is a standalone device, an in-dash unit, or a smartphone app.

Here is a rough breakdown of the cost ranges for different types of truck GPS systems:

• Standalone truck GPS devices: These devices can range in price from around $150 to $600 or more. The price depends on factors such as the size of the screen, the inclusion of advanced features like real-time traffic updates, Bluetooth connectivity, and the brand name.
• In-dash truck GPS units: In-dash GPS systems tend to be more expensive because they are integrated into the vehicle’s dashboard. Prices can vary greatly, with basic systems starting at around $500 and more advanced units with larger screens, multimedia capabilities, and additional features exceeding $1,000.
• Truck GPS apps: Truck GPS apps are often more affordable upfront because they run on existing smartphones or tablets. These apps typically offer a free version with limited features and a premium version with more advanced features, ranging from around $20 to $100 per year.

When choosing the best truck GPS, it is important to consider your needs and budget. Keep in mind that a higher price tag often means access to more accurate maps, more frequent updates, and additional features that can enhance your navigation experience. If you need a system with a lot of features and capabilities, you will be looking at a higher price tag. However, if you have a tight budget, there are still some great options available. 

When comparing prices, be sure to factor in any ongoing costs, such as subscription fees for premium features, map updates, and potential data charges for using smartphone apps.

Best Truck GPS Brands

Several reputable brands are known for their high-quality truck GPS systems designed for commercial vehicles. These brands have earned a reputation for their accuracy, truck-specific features, and reliable navigation solutions. Here is the list of the best manufacturers of truck GPS:

Garmin: Garmin is a well-established name in the GPS industry, known for producing a wide range of navigation devices for various purposes, including truck navigation. They offer standalone truck GPS devices with features such as truck-specific routing, real-time traffic updates, and custom points of interest.

Rand McNally: Rand McNally specializes in maps, navigation, and travel content. They are known for their truck-specific GPS devices, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and comprehensive navigation solutions that cater to the needs of truck drivers. Their devices often include features like truck routing, Wi-Fi connectivity, and real-time weather updates.

TomTom: TomTom is another recognized brand in the GPS market, offering navigation solutions for both personal and commercial use. Their truck-specific GPS devices provide tailored routes for trucks, taking into account vehicle dimensions and restrictions. TomTom devices are known for their user-friendly interfaces and up-to-date map data.

Magellan: Magellan produces GPS devices for various purposes, including truck navigation. Their truck-specific GPS units often feature customizable routing options, safety alerts, and points of interest that cater to commercial drivers’ needs.