With the UK’s supply chain under constant pressure, HGV drivers need more than basic navigation – they need tools that are built around the realities of the road, the size of their vehicle, and the regulations that apply to them. While apps like Google Maps and Waze may suit car drivers, they’re not fit for purpose when it comes to professional logistics.
For HGV drivers, using the right sat nav isn’t just a matter of convenience – it’s a matter of compliance, safety and efficiency.
What’s the problem with using regular sat navs?
Mainstream navigation tools like Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze are primarily designed for everyday drivers. They can’t factor in height restrictions, weight limits, bridge clearances or narrow roads that could easily cause a problem for HGVs.
While Waze is useful for reporting hazards and congestion, it often re-routes users down back roads and tight residential streets – something that’s completely inappropriate for larger vehicles.
Why truck-specific sat-navs make all the difference
Professional truck sat navs are built with the complexities of commercial driving in mind. They include customisable vehicle profiles that account for things like height, weight, length and load type, ensuring you only get routes that are appropriate for your specific vehicle. This avoids low bridges, restricted roads, and unsafe routes.
One of the most trusted sources for this type of navigation is TruckNavs, a supplier with over 30 years of industry experience. Their devices come with a range of features that make them invaluable for HGV drivers.
For example, truck-specific sat navs offer lane guidance, helping drivers navigate complex junctions more safely. With voice alerts for speeding and speed cameras, these systems help maintain safety and compliance. Custom routing for multi-drop deliveries ensures that drivers can plan their routes effectively, while 7–8 digit postcode recognition helps with pinpoint accuracy when navigating.
Truck sat navs also come with day/night map modes and tunnel views, making them easier to use in varying lighting conditions and complex driving situations. These features are critical for maintaining focus and navigating with confidence.
Driving time management is another key feature of truck sat navs. These systems help drivers manage their hours and remain compliant with tachograph regulations. Along with real-time updates and historical traffic routing, they help drivers avoid delays and optimise their routes, ensuring maximum efficiency and safety.
Are apps like Waze or Google Maps ever useful for HGV drivers?
While apps like Waze or Google Maps can be helpful as supplementary tools—for instance, to check real-time delays or road hazards—they should never replace a dedicated truck sat nav. These apps simply weren’t designed with the size and weight constraints of HGVs in mind, and following their guidance could put drivers in dangerous situations.
Think of these apps as sidekicks—useful, but not the main tool for the job.
What should HGV drivers look for in a sat nav?
When selecting a sat nav for professional use, drivers should prioritise truck-specific routing that accounts for vehicle dimensions and weight. Sat navs that alert drivers to speed limits tailored for HGVs are crucial for avoiding fines and maintaining safety. For complex deliveries, multi-stop planning ensures that drivers can efficiently handle multi-drop routes.
Points of interest are essential for locating truck stops, rest areas, and services along the route. Drivers should also look for systems that offer lifetime map updates and real-time traffic feeds to avoid congestion. Durability and ease of use are vital features, as HGV drivers spend long hours on the road, and the navigation system needs to withstand the demands of daily use.
Many drivers across the UK rely on TruckNavs, which offers all these features and more, alongside top-notch customer service and expert advice.
At Bluestones Supply Chain, we keep drivers moving
At Bluestones Supply Chain, we understand the importance of the right tools in maintaining efficiency and safety. That’s why we encourage HGV drivers to use truck-specific navigation systems, ensuring they stay compliant with legal requirements and make their journeys as smooth as possible.
We’re a market-leading recruitment partner for the UK logistics and industrial sectors, dedicated to providing the best staffing solutions to keep supply chains running smoothly. With over 30 years of experience, we know exactly what it takes to help drivers and employers thrive.
Whether you’re searching for your next role or need a reliable recruitment partner, Bluestones Supply Chain is here to assist.
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