Do you need a cell phone?

Staight Talk unlimited with their smartphone on Verizon never failed UNTIL I was within 175 mi range of any dod ateam. Learned they carry phones with att signal and purchased one. I carry both. If you are going to be near or on military installations Verizon is completely blocked. There is a code on the phone pkg that is att or verizon. I learned this the hard way en route and lost several hours not to mention total block of communication even text. Hope this helps.

 

Untill two years ago I know between Leadville and Beuna Vista Sprint was about the only phone that worked. All three seem to be changing consistently adding and dropping towers then weather and accidents taking out service here and there. Plus as you have said updates and radios going bad can mess with phones receptions.
But I don't think anyone can deny the best is with AT&T or Verizon as a driver they cover the best hands down.

To OP I understand trying to cut cost to try and catch up been there and done that but I really think the phone is not the place to do it. Food costs is probably your best bet shop at Wal-mart and discount stores buy bulk items you use a lot 2litters and a cup with a lid if you drink soda gallon jugs of water instead of 16oz bottles cup-o-soups a $5 coffee maker from a good will store and so-on.
BTW sometimes you do internet search you can get a $45 straight talk card plus a free phone I will see if my wife remembers where she got the deal just got one for one of the kids whos phone went bad

 

Havent finished reading all the responses yet.. but for me, I would not be without a cell phone and I have a smart phone and can use it to complete my trip pacs.. whech means I can get paid for the runs faster.. without being able to use my phone for trip pac there is probably a run or two that wouldnt get on that weeks checks..
I do use to communicate with shippers and there are a few where you have to wait for them to call you on your phon and tell you what door to back up to..

In an industry where everyday there is a line of new drivers and many others being sent home you might as well give yourself every edge you can..