Using GPS

I find myself using my GPS for keeping track of how far or close I am to shipper or reciever.

I also use it to track my miles driven for the day. I sometimes forget to record my beginning hub in the morning and it has saved me a bit of time backtracking the trip on the atlas for those times when I'm off the interstate.

I never use it for dock to dock directions as my Garmin Nuvi 205w doesn't have truck routing on it. I continue to use the QualComm and cell phone to contact shippers/recievers if the QC directions aren't clear or aren't available. I always research and plan my city route and record it to my notepad if I am in a strange city

If I am going to an unfamiliar shipper in a strange city, I also use google maps or live msn maps to scope out the area. Most cities have been photographed in high detail enough to be able to see what the terrain or street conditions looks like. This doesn't help in searching out low clearances or weight limit bridges but it does help

I have had several loads where I was told "Do Not Contact Shipper" I always call them anyway. I tell them if they want thier load p/u then I need better directions. I then pass on the better directions back to the company. Never let anyone tell you not to contact a shipper or reciever.

Basically IMHO the idea of GPS is to assist drivers but the driver also needs to use common sense and not use it as thier only source of guidance.

Use ALL the tools available to you for trip planning and travel. Brain, Maps, Phones, QC, GPS

But Most Of All...Use Common Sense

 

I use the Garmin 2720 it has Marinas in it, Great for me.
I still call the Marina for routing in. As with all GPS units you still need to do Updates. I do mine every two years.

 

I can see both sides of that one. I called one place in Chicago a while back for directions. First thing out of the guys mouth is to ask what company I drive for. He then went on a tirade about how he's been giving us directions for over a year and why doesn't your company give you the directions and he has better things to do with his time and so on and so on lol. Was talking with him later when I got there and he was a real cool guy but I can see how it gets annoying for them. Think of how many trucks they get into some of those places each day. I know some have it set up on a recording which is a great idea.