In the transportation industry, time is money. Having a reliable GPS for truckers helps ensure that you’re where you need, safely, and on time. Unlike standard GPS devices, truck-specific options provide tailored features like route planning for oversized vehicles, driver behavior monitoring, and telematics reporting.
7 Best GPS for Truckers
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best GPS devices on the market to help you choose the perfect equipment for your needs.
- Best for fleet route optimization: Trimble CoPilot
- Best for affordability: Konexial My20 ELD
- Best for regulatory compliance: Motive
- Best for driver safety and behavior monitoring: Azuga GPS Fleet Tracking
- Best for ease of use: Garmin dezl OTR800
- Best for overall efficiency: Verizon Connect
- Best for fast data: Samsara GPS Fleet Tracking
Trimble CoPilot
Best for: Fleet Route Optimization
Trimble CoPilot stands out for precise, truck-specific routing powered by the industry-standard PC*MILER engine. By using comprehensive truck map data and vehicle parameters, it eliminates unnecessary miles, avoids restricted roads, and helps cut fuel costs—critical advantages for time- and cost-sensitive fleets. CoPilot also supports unique truck and driver profiles for deeper customization, and optional real-time traffic with delay forecasts to keep schedules on track.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PC*MILER-powered, truck-aware routing reduces out-of-route miles and fuel spend
- Custom truck & driver profiles for highly tailored guidance
- Optional real-time traffic with proactive delay alerts and automated rerouting
- In-cab speed warnings support safety and compliance
Cons
- Commercial-grade system may require training and an adjustment period for drivers
- Best results when integrated with PC*MILER; may require an additional system if not already in use
Special Features
- Lane Assist & CoPilot ClearTurn™: Clear, lane-level guidance for complex intersections and interchanges.
- Truck-Specific Map Data: Automatically avoids low bridges, weight limits, and truck-prohibited roads based on vehicle parameters.
- Real-Time Traffic: Live traffic alerts and anticipated delay times to help maintain schedules.
- PC*MILER Voice-Guided Routing: Truck- and load-aware directions with automated rerouting for safety, compliance, and efficiency.
- In-Cab Speed Warnings: Notifies drivers of posted speed limits to help reduce citations.
Konexial My20 ELD
Best for: Affordability
Konexial’s My20 ELD is a simple, cost-effective GPS and compliance solution built for owner-operators and small fleets. Its user-friendly design combines GPS tracking with FMCSA-compliant electronic logs, offering essential routing and location visibility without extra complexity. The no-frills approach makes it easy to install, learn, and deploy while still delivering reliable performance for everyday operations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely budget-friendly for small fleets and owner-operators
- Straightforward setup and intuitive day-to-day use
- Delivers core GPS tracking and routing without unnecessary add-ons
- No monthly fees on the basic plan (after hardware purchase)
Cons
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end platforms
- No dedicated hardware for deeper diagnostics and vehicle health insights
- Less robust for large fleets that need comprehensive analytics
Special Features
- FMCSA-certified ELD functionality: Ensures compliance with Hours of Service requirements via electronic logging.
- Integrated GPS tracking & routing: Combines location visibility with truck-ready navigation in one system.
- My20 Tower dashboard: Centralized web console for monitoring drivers, assets, and trips.
- No monthly fees (basic plan): Pay for hardware and use core features without ongoing subscription costs.
Motive
Best for: Regulatory Compliance
Motive’s GPS fleet tracking system integrates real-time location visibility with advanced telematics, giving drivers accurate navigation while enabling managers to monitor and optimize fleet performance. It stands out for combining GPS navigation with FMCSA-compliant ELD tools, streamlining logging and reporting to balance operational efficiency with regulatory adherence.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Minimizes delays with real-time tracking and optimized routing
- Reduces fuel consumption and vehicle wear through smarter routes
- Helps drivers avoid hazardous or restricted roads with truck-aware guidance
- FMCSA-compliant ELD simplifies HOS logging and reporting
- AI-powered dashcams and coaching support safer driving practices
Cons
- Advanced features may require paid add-ons or higher-tier plans
- Initial setup, geofences, and driver coaching workflows can require training
- Real-time capabilities depend on consistent cellular connectivity
- Video/AI features may require clear privacy policies and change management
Special Features
- Continuous location updates: Precise, real-time vehicle position monitoring.
- Traffic & restriction analysis: Suggests optimal routes to cut travel time and fuel usage.
- Geofencing alerts: Notifications when vehicles enter or exit defined areas.
- Truck-aware turn-by-turn: Step-by-step directions tailored to vehicle specs to avoid restrictions.
- AI dashcams & coaching: Safety insights and driver feedback to reduce risky behavior.
Azuga GPS Fleet Tracking
Best for: Driver Safety and Behavior Monitoring
Azuga’s GPS platform pairs real-time tracking with diagnostic data to boost visibility, accountability, and safety across mixed fleets. With behavior monitoring, integrated dashcams (e.g., SafetyCam), and the engaging FleetMobile app (rewards, scores, leaderboards), the system helps reduce risky habits, cut transit times, and lower incidents and citations—backed by responsive, award-winning support.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reported average 38% reduction in accidents with safety-focused tools
- Helps reduce citations by an average of 57% through behavior coaching
- FleetMobile app drives engagement with rewards, scores, and notifications
- Real-time tracking and diagnostics improve visibility and uptime
- Works across a wide range of vehicle types
Cons
- Primarily uses a plug-in OBDII tracker; limited compatibility with vehicles lacking OBDII
- Performance depends on reliable cellular connectivity
- Subscription-based pricing may add recurring costs
Special Features
- Real-time tracking: Live vehicle locations for instant visibility and faster response.
- Diagnostic data capture: Pulls health and fault insights to reduce downtime.
- Customizable dashboard: Tailor views and reports for managers and dispatchers.
- Driver behavior monitoring: Detects speeding, harsh events, and idling to coach safer habits.
- Dashcam integration: SafetyCam captures critical road events for evidence and training.
- Versatile compatibility: Supports various vehicle classes to standardize across the fleet.
Garmin dezl OTR800
Best for: Ease of Use
Garmin’s dezl OTR800 is a driver-friendly, truck-focused GPS with an 8-inch touchscreen and clear, responsive navigation. Truck-specific routing factors in vehicle size, weight, and cargo type to keep drivers on legal, efficient roads. With preloaded maps, real-time traffic, weather, and voice control, it helps professional drivers stay on the best route with fewer distractions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Intuitive interface simplifies on-the-go use
- Real-time traffic and weather help avoid delays
- Dedicated truck routing supports legal, safe navigation
- No subscription required for core navigation
Cons
- Higher upfront cost versus app-based options
- Limited fleet management capabilities
- Live features require smartphone pairing
Special Features
- 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen: Large, clear display for easy viewing and input.
- Truck-specific navigation: Customizable truck profiles consider size, weight, and cargo.
- Preloaded maps with free updates: Stay current without added cost.
- Live traffic & weather: Real-time conditions to reroute around slowdowns.
- Voice-activated navigation: Hands-free commands reduce driver distraction.
Verizon Connect
Best for: Overall Efficiency
Verizon Connect is a comprehensive fleet tracking and telematics platform that helps managers monitor vehicles, optimize routes, and streamline compliance tasks in one system. As a long-standing leader in telematics, Verizon delivers high-tech software and robust data access to improve daily operations and long-term efficiency.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Flexible, scalable plans that grow with your fleet
- Customized reports and detailed activity logs
- Mature, enterprise-grade telematics platform and solutions
- Tools and workflows to support regulatory compliance
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Typically requires a 36-month contract
Special Features
- Hardwired & plug-and-play install: Deployment options to match diverse vehicles and timelines.
- Vehicle performance monitoring: Track health and utilization to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
- Fleet tracking software: Real-time location, trip history, and alerts for end-to-end visibility.
Samsara GPS Fleet Tracking
Best for: Fast Data
Samsara’s GPS fleet tracking is a cloud platform rather than a traditional in-cab GPS unit. It provides real-time fleet visibility, performance monitoring, and integrations that help administrators optimize operations across the entire fleet—fast.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Plug-and-play installation speeds deployment
- Integrates seamlessly with other Samsara products and data streams
- Customizable reports and logs for actionable insights
Cons
- Not a traditional standalone GPS navigation unit
- May be less ideal for single owner-operators versus larger fleets
Special Features
- Real-time fleet tracking: Live locations and status for instant situational awareness.
- Built-in Wi-Fi hotspot: Connectivity to support devices and data transfer in the field.
- Vehicle performance monitoring: Health, utilization, and fault data to reduce downtime.
How Does Truck GPS Navigation Work?
GPS units rely on satellite technology to pinpoint your exact location. This satellite data is then reflected on your screen and integrated into mapping software to help you navigate the roads.
Trucking GPS devices offer advanced features that include traffic reports and trucking points of interest (POIs). All of these features give drivers an edge while they’re on the road.
Things to Consider With GPS for Trucks
Storage
While most GPS units are wireless-compatible, internal storage allows the unit to store maps and additional navigation data. Many of today’s GPS units also feature a slot for an external memory card, allowing you to expand the memory up to 32 GB.
Map Updates and Traffic Alerts
Truckers rely on the latest data to plan their routes. The best GPS unit will automatically update maps and provide real-time traffic updates, which successfully alerts drivers to accidents, congestion, school zones, and more.
Voice Command Navigation
No truck driver should have to mess with a touchscreen GPS when they’re behind the wheel. Your GPS unit should offer voice command navigation so that you can make course corrections or request updates without taking your eyes off the road.
Speed Monitoring
Not all GPS models will offer this feature, but truckers may appreciate units that monitor their speed and alert them to any speed violations to avoid being pulled over or getting a ticket.
Lane Assistance
Advanced GPS models offer lane assist and other advanced features to help truckers stay safe. This makes it possible for drivers to navigate even the most complex lane changes with ease.
FAQ
What is truck GPS?
A truck GPS is a navigation device specifically designed for commercial trucks that provides routing information accounting for vehicle size, weight, and road restrictions applicable to large vehicles.
What is the difference between a trucker GPS and a regular GPS?
A trucker GPS differs from a regular GPS by including truck-specific features like bridge height clearances, weight restrictions, truck-friendly routes, and restrictions on hazmat materials.
What GPS do most truckers use?
The most popular standalone GPS units for truckers are Garmin dezl devices, which require pairing with a separate Garmin eLog or other compatible ELD device to meet electronic logging requirements. For combined GPS/ELD systems, Motive and Trimble devices are the most widely used large fleet solutions, while owner-operators and small fleet owners opt for combo units from Samsara and, to a growing extent, Konexial.
