GPS

I use my GPS for redundancy. You dont really need to waste 400 dollars on a truck specific GPS either. Im quite happy with my nuvi 1300, as it usually takes me right to the door.

 

Most important thing to learn about a GPS is when not to use the GPS.

I love mine, and it not only makes my job easier, but also saves me time which translates to more miles I can run and more money in my pocket.

But, I hate to admit that I use it and I never know what to say to those who ask me about it, because they are thinking of getting one. Too many drivers rely on them blindly, and allow it to point them into trouble. I know how to use mine, and don't like getting lumped in with those who don't. For the same reason, I never feel right about recommending a unit to a driver, for fear that they might not have enough sense to use it properly.

Might not matter soon, as I think my company is nearing a ban on GPS units in our trucks. Not for the standard reason of drivers following them under a low bridge (although that has happened), but more because of the distraction they feel it causes.

 

All true, I treat my GPS directions as just a suggestion, not written in stone directions.

 

Model should be 5510

 

I use Delorme Street Atlas USA on my laptop. I enter the origin and destination, and then look at the route it gives me. If it is taking me on roads that I can't or don't want to run, I enter a "via" in the route and it changes the route to go through that point. I will usually inspect the route very closely to see where it is taking me along the entire route.

It is a judgment call many times because I will have 3 to 5 buildings to deliver to Mr. or Mrs. homeowner that lives on restricted routes as well as paved and gravel county roads that aren't on even state maps. I just go in and back out on the roads that look the best on the screen. I have had to back up to a mile on a fairly busy roads before because I find a turn I can't make, a 5 ton bridge etc.

A great addition to your gps is http://www.lowclearances.com/ It will mark where low overpasses are on most gps systems.

As far as gps being a distraction, driving a truck is a distraction in itself. If you can't deal with distractions, you have no business being in a truck.

 

Be sure to understand that the data may not be up todate.

Thanks,
Mark

 

I have never seen any gps system or data that is truly up to date.