Imagine this: you’re a truck driver, always on the road, looking for your next load. Finding the best one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are so many apps out there, each promising to make your job easier. But how do you pick the right one? It’s tough to know which app will actually help you find good loads without wasting your time.
This is where Truck Load Apps come in. They are tools that help drivers find jobs quickly. But with so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want an app that shows you good pay, clear directions, and reliable companies. You don’t want to waste money on an app that doesn’t deliver what it promises.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great Truck Load App. We’ll look at what features really matter and how to avoid the ones that won’t help you. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which app is best for your needs. Let’s dive in and make finding your next load a whole lot simpler.
Our Top 5 Truck Load Apps Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Truck Load Apps Detailed Reviews
1. BIT Air Scale 18-Wheeler Set – Bluetooth-Enabled Onboard Load Scale for Dedicated Trucks and Trailers
Rating: 8.9/10
The BIT Air Scale 18-Wheeler Set is a smart onboard load scale designed for big trucks and trailers. It uses Bluetooth to send real-time weight information straight to your phone. This helps you know exactly how much your truck and its cargo weigh, and also the weight on each axle. It’s a helpful tool for keeping your loads safe and legal.
What We Like:
- You can see your truck’s total weight, cargo weight, and each axle’s weight right on your phone.
- It’s easy to install by connecting to your truck’s air suspension lines. Both 3/8″ and 1/4″ fittings are included, so it should fit most trucks and trailers.
- The kit comes with everything you need: sensors, fittings, air hose, mounting parts, and clear instructions.
- It helps you avoid overloading your truck and makes sure the weight is spread out evenly.
- The app shows detailed weight data, axle readings, and air pressure (PSI) with automatic updates.
What Could Be Improved:
- For the most accurate readings, you’ll need to do a calibration process.
- The app provides default calibration data, but a custom calibration using certified weights will give you the best results.
This system offers excellent insight into your truck’s load. It’s a smart investment for any trucker who wants to stay compliant and operate safely.
2. Garmin dezl OTR720
Rating: 8.6/10
The Garmin dezl OTR720 is a big, 7-inch GPS navigator built for truck drivers. It helps you find the best routes for your rig, shows you what your destination looks like from above, and even warns you about wind. Plus, it connects you with other truckers to find parking and loading docks.
What We Like:
- Big, bright 7-inch screen makes it easy to see.
- Custom truck routing considers your truck’s size and weight.
- BirdsEye Direct Satellite Imagery gives you clear overhead views of your destination.
- Finds truck-friendly parking and loading docks thanks to the dēzl community.
- Built-in CAT Scale finder helps you check your truck’s weight.
- Wind speed overlay on the map helps you see and avoid dangerous winds.
- PrePass notifications save you time at weigh stations.
- Easy break planning and a directory of truck services.
- Shows popular routes used by other truckers.
What Could Be Improved:
- Custom routing isn’t available everywhere.
- Some features, like wind speed and PrePass, need a smartphone connection.
The Garmin dezl OTR720 offers many helpful features for professional drivers. It makes navigating and planning your trips much simpler and safer.
3. QUICKLYNKS BM2 Bluetooth Battery Monitor 12V Car Battery Tester for Lead Acid
Rating: 8.8/10
Say goodbye to battery worries with the QUICKLYNKS BM2 Bluetooth Battery Monitor! This handy device works with all 12-volt vehicle batteries, from your car and motorcycle to your RV, truck, and even boat. It even keeps an eye on your solar power system. The BM2 is like a doctor for your battery, telling you if it’s healthy, how much charge it has, and if your engine is starting strong. It’s super easy to use, connecting wirelessly to your phone.
What We Like:
- Works with all 12V batteries: cars, trucks, RVs, motorcycles, boats, and solar systems.
- Automatic low voltage alarm warns you if your battery is getting weak.
- Checks battery voltage, charge, and cranking power.
- Detects engine starting automatically.
- Free app for iOS and Android makes it easy to see battery health.
- Connects easily via Bluetooth with no code needed.
- Records the time of each drive.
- Safe and reliable testing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The app needs to be downloaded by scanning a code from the machine or manual.
- The Bluetooth range is limited to 10 meters for the low voltage alarm.
The QUICKLYNKS BM2 is a smart tool for anyone who wants to keep their vehicle batteries in top shape. It gives you peace of mind by letting you know your battery’s condition at a glance.
4. 12V Car Battery Tester
Rating: 8.9/10
Keep your vehicle running smoothly with the TOPDON BT20 12V Car Battery Tester. This handy device is designed to check the health of your car’s battery, ensuring it’s ready for the road. It’s a budget-friendly tool that gives you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- It’s very affordable, costing less than $20.
- You get four testing modes: battery load, voltage test, cranking test, and charging test.
- The app offers cool features like real-time voltage waveform graphs and data playback.
- It gives you fast and accurate results in just one second, with up to 99.5% accuracy.
- The tester works with most 12V lead-acid batteries in cars, trucks, boats, and more.
- It comes with safety features like reverse polarity and “no spark” protection.
- The device supports 8 different languages, making it easy to use anywhere.
- It’s great for car owners and small repair shops.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cranking and charging tests can only be used with the “Batterylab” app, which you need to download.
- It cannot test lithium batteries or 6V/24V batteries.
- You need to connect Bluetooth through the app, not your phone’s settings.
The TOPDON BT20 is a smart choice for anyone who wants to easily check their car battery. It offers great value and useful features for basic battery testing.
5. Garmin 010-02313-00 dezl OTR700
Rating: 9.4/10
The Garmin 010-02313-00 dezl OTR700 is a 7-inch GPS truck navigator designed to make long-haul driving easier and safer. It features a big, bright touchscreen that’s easy to see, even in sunlight. This navigator offers special routes made just for trucks, considering their size and weight. It also helps you find truck-friendly parking and even guides you to loading docks.
What We Like:
- The large 7-inch touchscreen is bright and easy to read.
- Custom truck routing helps you avoid low bridges and tight turns.
- Load-to-dock guidance shows you where to go when you arrive at your destination.
- The built-in directory helps you find truck stops and their services.
- You can use your voice to control the navigator, keeping your hands on the wheel.
- It works with Garmin eLog for free Hours of Service recording.
What Could Be Improved:
- Custom truck routing may not be available in all areas.
- The Garmin eLog ELD needs to be bought separately.
The Garmin dezl OTR700 is a valuable tool for any trucker. It provides smart navigation and helpful information to make your journeys smoother and more efficient.
Your Guide to Truck Load Apps: Finding the Perfect Fit
Choosing the right truck load app makes your job easier. These apps help you find loads, manage your paperwork, and get paid faster. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good truck load apps have several important features.
Finding Loads
- Real-time Load Boards: These show available loads right now. You can see where the load is going and how much it pays.
- Filtering Options: You can narrow down your search. Look for filters by location, type of freight, and pay.
- Load Alerts: Get notified when a new load that fits your needs pops up. This saves you time.
Managing Your Business
- Dispatching Tools: Some apps let you manage your drivers and trucks. You can assign loads and track their progress.
- Document Management: Upload and store important papers like BOLs (Bills of Lading) and invoices.
- Payment Tracking: See when you’ll get paid for your loads. This helps you manage your money.
- Navigation: Built-in GPS helps you get to your pickup and delivery spots.
2. Important Materials (App Design & Functionality)
While apps aren’t made of physical materials, their “construction” matters.
User Interface (UI)
A good app is easy to look at and use. Buttons should be clear. Information should be easy to find. A clean design helps you work faster.
User Experience (UX)
This is how the app feels when you use it. Is it smooth? Does it crash often? A good UX means the app works well and doesn’t frustrate you.
Reliability
The app needs to work when you need it. Frequent crashes or errors cause delays. You want an app that is dependable.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a truck load app great or not so great?
Things That Improve Quality
- Accurate Load Information: Correct details about the load, pickup, and delivery points are vital.
- Fast Updates: Load boards that update quickly show you the best opportunities.
- Good Customer Support: When you have a problem, you need help fast. Good support makes a big difference.
- Fair Pricing: The cost of the app should match the value it provides.
Things That Reduce Quality
- Outdated Information: Loads that are no longer available waste your time.
- Confusing Menus: If you can’t find what you need, the app is hard to use.
- Hidden Fees: Unexpected costs can hurt your budget.
- Poor Performance: A slow or buggy app slows down your business.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses these apps and how?
For Owner-Operators
If you own your truck, these apps help you find your own loads. You can work directly with brokers or shippers. This gives you more control over your work and income.
For Small Fleets
If you have a few trucks, these apps help you manage all of them. You can assign loads to drivers, track their progress, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
For Dispatchers
Dispatchers use these apps to find the best loads for their drivers. They manage schedules, paperwork, and make sure drivers are productive.
A good truck load app is a powerful tool. It helps you find more work, manage your business better, and earn more money. By looking at the right features and understanding how the app works, you can choose one that truly helps you succeed on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Truck Load Apps
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: The main key features include real-time load boards, filtering options to find specific loads, and load alerts to notify you of new opportunities. Many apps also offer dispatching tools, document management, payment tracking, and navigation.
Q: How do I know if an app is reliable?
A: Check reviews from other users. Look for apps that are frequently updated and have good customer support. If an app crashes often or has bugs, it’s not reliable.
Q: Can I use these apps on my phone?
A: Yes, most truck load apps are designed for smartphones and tablets. You can download them from your phone’s app store.
Q: Are truck load apps expensive?
A: Prices vary. Some apps are free with paid premium features. Others have monthly or annual subscription fees. Consider the cost compared to the value it brings to your business.
Q: What is a “load board”?
A: A load board is a digital marketplace where shippers and brokers post available loads. Truckers can browse these boards to find loads to haul.
Q: How do I find loads that pay well?
A: Use the filtering options to sort loads by pay rate or see estimated earnings. Some apps show you historical data on what similar loads have paid.
Q: What is a BOL?
A: A BOL stands for Bill of Lading. It’s a legal document that acts as a receipt for goods being shipped. It contains important details about the shipment.
Q: Can these apps help me with paperwork?
A: Yes, many apps allow you to upload, store, and manage important documents like BOLs and invoices digitally. This makes it easier to keep track of your paperwork.
Q: What is the difference between UI and UX?
A: UI (User Interface) is how the app looks and is designed. UX (User Experience) is how it feels to use the app – if it’s easy, smooth, and enjoyable.
Q: Can I use these apps if I have multiple trucks?
A: Yes, many apps are designed for small fleets. They offer features to help dispatchers manage multiple trucks, assign loads, and track drivers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.