Over sized route gps

Hi. I’m not trying to be a buster, but from your opening post, it sounds like your trainer failed you. You say your trainer ran that route previously. IRRELEVANT. He was supposed to show you how he did his homework and found the correct route.

Do you have a copy of the permit? If so, take a marker, blot out any truck and trailer info, company info, then take a pic and post it here. I am certain that the guys can show you how they do OSOW homework.

 

I tried inputting a 50 mile route on my dezl and it was a frustrating experience. In less than an hour I can usually use Google maps and a sheet of paper, and have a ‘one sheet’ plan with exits and highways/streets that I keep on a clipboard or tape to the dash.

Some of the states (TX) have confounding directions, others (MS/AL) have simple but often vague routes.

When your trainer is gone, you’ll need a method that works for YOU. 10’4” ain’t a big deal, but you don’t want to get caught off route/outside curfews when you’re permitted.

Read the permits, have the provision sheets attached, know your curfews, and double check your route.

You can call the state DOT department at the top of the permit and ask questions on the route if you’re confused, or like @TripleSix said - post the route here with questions if need be.

Members here would rather see you safe and compliant , than see you on the news - or have you canned from your job for infractions.

 

I've used nothing but Google Maps for routing for the last 13 years of OS/OW. You can build your own routes in Google maps by using dropped pins and then save them on Android phones. For complicated routes you might have to do it in multiple sections since Google maps is limited to 10 waypoint pins.

I just save all the sections on a separate home screen in folders for each state if needed. Easy to pull up and easy to share with my escorts or other drivers on the same job to save them the time of entering the route themselves.


All those state folders on this screen shot are for one job I did. Probably 130-140 waypoints total to get Google maps to go the way I wanted.


Another option if you want to stay low tech is to get some dry erase markers and write your major route numbers and exits to turn on the inside of the windshield. Just put them in order down the left edge then reach up and wipe them off as you pass them.

Some states also have QR codes on the permits that will take you to a map on the state website that will show your route.

Others like Florida will provide a map with the permit but it will show the whole state so it's not worth much when it comes to seeing small roads and where to turn.

 

I would do it the same way. I would print out the permits, look on google maps, turn by turn the night before, and write everything down turn by turn on the back of the permit. The I would program every intersection where I am supposed to turn into the GPS. T the GPS would notify the intersection, but I would have to refer to my notes to know which way to turn. Everything was written down…the route, curfew times and areas, even parking spots. There are OSOW routes, there are overheight routes, there are superload routes…the bigger the load, the more strategic you have to be as a driver.

Anyway, post your routes when you need help. The guys will get you through.

Luck in battle.

 

Another option if you want to stay low tech is to get some dry erase markers and write your major route numbers and exits to turn on the inside of the windshield. Just put them in order down the left edge then reach up and wipe them off as you pass them.

Blast from the past - I seen a guy doing this 15-20 years ago.

It looked a little crazy, until you think about it - it’s actually brilliant.

 

I create a route on google maps using pindrops that has important points from the permit. Then I "share" the route via a text message to myself. That way it doesn't get lost.

 

I wish states would do like,, someone correct me if im wrong( I think Illinois and Kentucky) and a few other states do it. Where you scan the code thingy on the permit and I believe there's an app and it pre populates in the app..... IDK, it was a great idea but, I never could get it to work

 

I always wondered how to get around the cap on waypoints for google maps.. now i know!! Thanks for that

 

Use inroute for iPhone or iPad- if you are serious