Truck Routing Software: Our Top 10 Picks
Explore the best trucking software for route optimization and cost savings. Check out our top 10 picks to find the perfect solution for your fleet.
Freight carried by trucks each years in the US addes up to a staggering 11.84 billion tons spanning 000’s of miles!
The craziest part is that many of these miles are unnecessary!
Despite the advances in technology, many trucking companies have failed to adopt solutions that can save thousands of dollars in wasted time and miles traveled by using something called truck routing software.
In this blog, we're going to break it down for you - what exactly is truck routing software and why is it necessary for your delivery management? Let’s get started!
What is Truck Routing Software?
Why is Truck Routing Software Important?
What is Truck Routing Software?
Truck routing software is a type of route planning software that helps commercial trucking companies optimize their routes, save time, and reduce costs. Using a truck route app, fleet managers and dispatchers can create efficient, safe, and profitable routes for their drivers. Truck routing software is also often integrated with GPS tracking systems, allowing real-time monitoring of truck movements and providing alerts when routes need to be updated due to unexpected events.
Truck routing software uses algorithmic computational power to devise the most efficient route for any number of trucks to take when delivering or collecting goods. The software solution does so by accounting for any number of parameters including (but not limited to):
- The number of stops
- The number of trucks & drivers
- The location of the stops
- The quantities of goods to be collected & delivered
- The road conditions/laws en route
- Driver availability/mandatory break hours
To consider all these factors while routing trucks would take a transport manager days, if not weeks. Of course, this is not feasible for any logistics professional. However, with the power of modern software, this can all be fed to a truck routing solution that will factor in all this and give each driver the most efficient route possible in a matter of seconds through a process called route optimization.
SmartRoutes Route Planning Software
Streamline your entire delivery process, all from one platform
Why is Truck Routing Software Important?
Whether you’re an owner-driver or operating a fleet of 1,000 trucks, having a routing solution will save you hours of manual route planning every week, thousands of dollars in otherwise wasted fuel, and maybe even reduce your carbon emissions. Fleet routing software is an essential tool for any commercial trucking business because it provides several benefits, including:
- Cost savings: Truck routing software can help reduce fuel consumption, vehicle wear and tear, and labor costs by optimizing delivery routes using advanced route optimization software.
- Enhanced customer service: Truck route planning software can provide accurate delivery times and real-time updates on the status of shipments using logistics software, which can help improve customer service and build customer trust and loyalty.
- Better resource allocation: This kind of software can provide valuable data and insights into fleet performance. With this data, fleet managers can make informed decisions about how to allocate resources, such as vehicles, drivers, and fuel, to maximize efficiency and profitability.
- Increased efficiency: Routing software for trucks can help fleet managers create more efficient, effective routes for their drivers using automated routing software, which can help increase overall efficiency and productivity. By automating the route planning process, fleet managers can save time and reduce errors, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their business.
While there are many advantages, trucking software is now non-negotiable for any size trucking business to survive.
For that reason, we’ve taken a look at some truck routing software solutions in our list below to help decide which one is best for you.
Top 10 Truck Routing Software
To help you navigate the vast array of options available, we've compiled a list of the best trucking software solutions currently on the market. These tools are designed to optimize your routes, save on fuel costs, and streamline your operations, whether you manage a single truck or a large fleet.
Here are our top 10 picks for the best trucking software to enhance your delivery management:
1. SmartRoutes
To remain impartial, we did consider not including our software in this guide.
But we’ve built a solution that we’re rightly proud of and it would probably do you more of a disservice if we didn't include it.
SmartRoutes is a delivery management software that includes route planning and optimization at the core of what it does. The solution relies upon industry-leading routing technology that has been proven to help individual trucks and fleets revolutionize their business.
As a cloud-based solution, it can be rolled out in a matter of minutes and have drivers onboarded with the driver app within a day. The solution combines the driver apps with a desktop-based planner that can create routes via an API that sends delivery and order details directly to it, or it can be done by importing an Excel/CSV and having optimized routes in seconds.
The beauty of the solution is that it is generally billed on a monthly subscription basis which allows you the flexibility to scale up or down depending on seasonality or fleet size.
What we also offer is great customer support and an easy-to-use help section within the software that can often help you overcome routing challenges in a matter of minutes.
At a Glance:
- 7-day free trial
- Fleet management & tracking
- Set mandatory driver hours and breaks
- Set vehicle capacities
- Barcode scanning
Cost:
Plans start for as little as €26 per month!
2. Paragon Routing
If you’ve been in the trucking game for a while, it’s likely that you’ve at least heard of Paragon.
Paragon is one of the most established routing tools available and counts some big names like Royal Mail group in the UK and National Food Corporation in the US amongst their clients.
Their solution hosts all the basic features of routing and scheduling software that you might expect, including route planning and optimization, live route management, territory management and, proof of delivery.
If there is one drawback to Paragon, it is that it isn't what you might call an ‘out-of-the-box’ software. It is less agile than many more modern cloud-based solutions and as a result, the implementation and deployment can be a more costly and time-consuming affair.
Visually it is also a little more dated than more recent comers to the market, but that’s not to take away from the core functionality which is well-regarded.
At a Glance:
- Comprehensive route planning and optimization
- Live route management
- Territory management
- Proof of delivery
Cost:
Request on site
3. Workwave
Workwave is another of the more prominent players in the routing space.
They claim to have been supporting clients with last-mile solutions for 40 years. While they have branched out into other spaces in recent years like lawn care and pest control, they still offer a ‘logistics & distribution dispatching’ solution that helps trucking businesses with routing.
The solution is a little more modern in touch and feel than its Paragon counterpart, and it is very well reviewed by users online.
If there is one downside to WorkWave, it’s that it is a little more complicated than other solutions and can be harder to get to grips with. That said, if you have a large fleet, it may be worth getting to grips with it to enjoy the benefits of what it offers.
At a Glance:
- Advanced route optimization
- Real-time tracking
- No dashboard
- Focused on field services, particularly pest control & lawn care
Cost:
Custom pricing
4. Sygic
Sygic claims to ‘bring maps to life’ with their GPS navigation solution designed with truck drivers in mind.
When putting together this list, we were keen to include truck routing software that put truckers front of mind when designing their solution. That is exactly what Sygic have done and it has resulted in a familiar-looking interface that allows planners to quickly output routes, and drivers to easily follow them.
Like SmartRoutes, it combines a desktop and mobile solution and one of its USPs is that it can also be used offline.
If you're operating trucks in areas with poor access to mobile data, this might be one that you give some consideration to!
At a Glance:
- Can be used offline
- Dashcam included
- 3D maps
- Primarily a map service with limited routing features
Cost:
6 month plan for £12.99
5. PTV Navigator
So, here’s the thing when it comes to truck route planners:
A one-size-fits delivery route planner just doesn’t cut it.
Unlike delivering parcels with a box truck, a semi (or tractor unit and trailer for our European friends) can’t necessarily take any available route a standard routing software might throw up. To give credit to PTV, they recognize this and ensure that ‘truck unfriendly’ obstacles like narrow roads, hairpin turns, and bridges can be avoided if that route isn’t suitable for your trucks.
Although one of the lesser-knowns on the market, they have focused almost exclusively on trucking, and their solution reflects that. They list reducing fuel consumption, cost calculation, route compliance, and Co2 reductions as cores of their product.
Let’s just say, we know a thing or two about the most pressing issues facing trucking companies and these are right up there.
They also offer quite a bit of flexibility in terms of integration, so if you’re already using other technology solutions that you want to retain, PTV might be worth a shot!
At a Glance:
- Truck-specific routes
- Powered by TomTom (geolocation technology)
- Available on Android
- CO2 reduction focus
Cost:
Will need to be requested through their website
6. MaxOptra
UK-based MaxOptra offers simplified route optimization that has proved popular amongst trucking operators in their own region.
Like SmartRoutres, they offer very flexible payment options and combine a desktop and mobile combination in their solution. In addition, they offer flexible roll-out options both remotely and on-site.
This kind of flexibility is invaluable to medium-sized trucking companies that might be in the early days of adopting a truck routing solution but still need quite a bit of support given their size. In fact, they specify that their solution is designed for fleets of 5+ vehicles.
Although they are UK-based, they count some notable US clients on their books like Krispy Kreme, so they are trusted worldwide.
Deserving of their place on this list!
At a Glance:
- Dynamic route planning
- Open API
- Flexible roll-out options
Cost:
£35 per month with a minimum 2-year contract
7. TruckRouter
While all of the solutions listed so far are paid offerings, TruckRouter is free!
Now, that means there’s going to be a lot of limitations, but it does quite a bit without you having to break out the credit card.
They offer truck-specific routes, info on weight and height restrictions, and also give reports on mileage and costs.
The biggest downside of the solution is that it is only desktop-based, meaning that it is pretty much useless while out on the road. Unfortunately, they don’t yet offer a mobile-based solution or app.
However, if you're just starting out as a single truck driver, doing rural routes, it might just get you out of a hole!
At a Glance:
- Web-based
- Mileage reports
- Truck-specific routes
- Free to use
Cost:
Free
8. Google Maps
Ok, so we’re sure you’ve probably thought of this one already, but we think it’s with its place on our list!
When rolling out technology, the learning curve can be the most difficult part for you and your drivers. However, almost all of them will be familiar with Google Maps.
That familiarity can be a big asset to your drivers as they navigate their route on the road. When it comes to route navigation, we have even integrated Google Maps onto our drivers apps so that they can follow their route on a familiar interface that they can trust.
What many might not know, is that you can plan routes with up to 10 waypoints on Google Map too by simply adding additional destinations. The biggest disadvantage over a dedicated trucking planner is that it doesn't optimize those same routes.
If you're an established trucking business, it’s unlikely to meet your needs, but if you're starting out and need something easy-to-use, it’s definitely an option.
At a Glance:
- Familiar UI
- Limited features
- Ability to plan route on desktop and share to mobile
Cost:
Free
9. Samsara
Samsara provides a comprehensive fleet management platform that includes truck routing as one of its features. Samsara's solution integrates with hardware such as cameras and sensors to offer real-time visibility into your fleet’s operations. This system not only helps with route optimization but also enhances safety and compliance through real-time tracking and monitoring.
Additionally, Samsara offers a user-friendly dashboard that provides insights and analytics, helping fleet managers make data-driven decisions. The platform supports various integrations and APIs, allowing for seamless integration with other business systems.
At a Glance:
- Integrates with hardware like cameras and sensors
- Real-time tracking and monitoring
- Enhances safety and compliance
Cost:
Custom
10. PC*Miler
PCMiler is a well-established truck routing software known for its robust features and reliable performance. It offers precise and customizable routing, taking into account factors such as truck restrictions, fuel efficiency, and toll costs. You can set up add-ons such as weather alerts and traffic updates to further enhance route planning.
However, many features are considered standard in comparison to other routing software. PCMiler also provides multi-version capabilities, allowing users to compare different routing options and scenarios. Its web-based version makes it accessible from anywhere, and it supports international operations in 240 countries.
At a Glance:
- Web-based version available
- Available in 240 countries
- Add-ons for weather and traffic
Cost:
$84.99 per month
We’re here to help you find the right Truck Routing Software
Choosing the right truck routing software can make a significant difference in your operational efficiency and cost savings. The options we've outlined cater to different needs and budgets, so you can find the best fit for your business. We also offer a free 7-day trial with no payment details required, so you can see if it is a fit for your business before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is truck routing software, and how does it work?
Truck routing software is a specialized tool designed to plan and optimize routes for commercial vehicles, such as trucks and delivery fleets. It works by taking into account various factors like vehicle size, weight, traffic conditions, road restrictions, and delivery schedules to determine the most efficient and cost-effective routes. This software typically utilizes GPS and real-time data to provide accurate directions and monitor routes in real-time, helping fleet managers and drivers make informed decisions.
2. What software is used for trucking?
Several software solutions are used in the trucking industry to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. These include:
- SmartRoutes: Known for its intuitive interface and robust optimization features.
- Paragon Routing: Offers comprehensive route planning and real-time management.
- WorkWave: Provides advanced logistics and distribution dispatching solutions.
- Sygic: Specializes in GPS navigation with truck-specific routes.
- PTV Navigator: Focuses on truck-friendly routes and compliance with road restrictions.
- MaxOptra: A flexible solution for dynamic route planning and optimization.
- Samsara: Integrates fleet management with real-time tracking and safety features.
3. What are the top features to look for in a truck routing software solution?
When evaluating truck routing software, consider these essential features:
- Real-Time Traffic Updates: Access to up-to-date traffic information for route adjustments.
- Route Optimization: Automatically calculate the most efficient routes based on various factors.
- Customization: Ability to tailor routes to specific vehicle types, load sizes, and delivery schedules.
- Integration: Compatibility with other fleet management and tracking systems.
- Reporting and Analytics: Tools to monitor performance, track fuel consumption, and assess driver behavior.
- Driver App: Mobile application for drivers to follow routes, receive updates, and report issues.
- Scalability: The ability to scale up or down based on fleet size and business needs.
- Compliance: Features to ensure adherence to legal regulations, such as HOS (Hours of Service) requirements.
4. What is the primary software used by truck dispatchers?
Truck dispatchers commonly use fleet management and routing software to manage their operations effectively. Some of the primary software solutions include:
- SmartRoutes: For comprehensive route planning and real-time updates.
- Samsara: Known for its real-time tracking and safety features.
- Paragon Routing: Used for detailed route planning and optimization.
- McLeod Software: Provides a complete transportation management system (TMS) for dispatching, accounting, and fleet management.
- Trimble Transportation: Offers a range of solutions for dispatching, tracking, and fleet optimization.
5. Is there trucking software for small fleets?
Yes, there are several trucking software solutions designed specifically for small fleets. These solutions are typically more affordable and easier to implement than those for larger fleets. Some options include:
- SmartRoutes: Offers scalable plans suitable for small to medium-sized fleets.
- MaxOptra: Provides flexible payment options and easy integration for small fleets.
- TruckRouter: A free, web-based tool that can help small operators with basic route planning.
- Route4Me: Known for its user-friendly interface and affordability for small fleets.
- Samsara: Although it serves large fleets, it also offers plans for small fleets with essential features.
If you enjoyed this blog, you may also be interested in:
Caroline Hassett
Michael Santry
