Trip Planning

Gps is a handy tool, but it is just a tool. I use one for street address at shippers and receivers... still ust a map from point a to point b.

Good luck, you sound like you have your head on straight.

 

Yes, remember that, the GPS is an invaluable tool, but it is just that, only one tool. If the tool breaks, then what? Cancel the load? Quit driving?

I don't think so. So the description you gave of what it takes "good map...." etc, is what you need to trip plan. Any tools that makes that easier and faster is always welcome, but should not replace the brain. The GPS is also a good tool for when you are navigating road hazards to remind you of upcoming directions so you can concentrate on that 4-wheeler that wants to merge in front of you from the right, when you have an off ramp you need to get off ahead. It helps you decide to slow down and allow, rather than change lanes to avoid.

Now, just a note. I think making detailed notes of hill intersections, etc.. might be a little overkill. Make mental notes of things like that. If you're busy writing notes you'll surely crash. Your attention should be on your maneuvering the truck, not noting it's obstacle while driving.

That is what trip planning is supposed to help you avoid.

Good Luck.

 

I have an android phone and found an app called Truck Routes. It is a gps program that costs $45 a year and has three different options for truck routes, shortest, quickest, and prefer Freeway.

It has been great for me, and I just recenrly sawba write up on it, I think it was in Overdrive but not sure. It is free to down load, but you pay to activare it.

 

I have an android phone and found an app called Truck Routes. It is a gps program that costs $45 a year and has three different options for truck routes, shortest, quickest, and prefer Freeway.

It has been great for me, and I just recenrly saw a write up on it, I think it was in Overdrive but not sure. It is free tobdown load, but you pay to activare it.

 

Ooops! Double post

 

Oh, there arw trucker GPS units based on the Rand McNally Trucker Atlas, but the are generally $300-$700 for one. I much prefer the $45 I spent.

 

being a training company for dummies transam gives us fuel stops routes and locations for the gps supplied with the truck just plug and go
then when it breaks down the kids are lost i use it but i also know where i am going. I particularly like google earth to look at a new reciever and scope out available parking overnite to save on my trip clock. Nothing burns up my 14 hour clock faster then sleeping at the truck stop then getting up driving 25 miles to the reciever and just sitting in the door

 

I dont plan trips

 

How do you calculate the amount of fuel needed for a trip?