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The Best Parking Tricks and Tips (and 10 parking apps to help you)
January 06, 2025

The Best Parking Tricks and Tips (and 10 parking apps to help you)

Finding the best parking has long been a critical issue for truck drivers. Securing a spot at a designated rest area often requires arriving hours before nightfall—a challenge for drivers unable to stop early due to delivery schedules or Hours of Service (HOS) constraints.

When drivers run out of hours and cannot find safe and best parking, they are often forced to park on ramps or along highways. This increases the risk of accidents and can result in citations. Unsafe parking is dangerous for truckers and the general public, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in truck parking infrastructure.

This article will discuss the best parking tricks and tips, explore the root causes of the parking shortage, and look into solutions, including the top 10 best parking apps to help drivers navigate this ongoing challenge.

The scope of the problem

Truck parking availability in the U.S. remains critically insufficient. As of 2024, there are only about 313,000 truck parking spaces nationwide, with a mere 40,000 at public rest areas. This shortage forces drivers to compete for limited spaces, particularly during overnight hours.

A recent survey conducted by Trucker Tools found that 86% of truck drivers struggle to find parking, and 79% cite overnight parking as their biggest challenge. Despite federal and private-sector efforts to address the issue, the demand for truck parking continues to outpace supply, leaving drivers frustrated and safety compromised.

Federal efforts to address the parking crisis

Though progress has been slow, federal initiatives aim to alleviate the parking shortage. For example:

  1. The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act proposes allocating $755 million over three years to construct additional truck parking spaces.

  2. The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced funding for truck parking projects in states like Florida, Wisconsin, and Missouri, adding 260 new parking spaces in critical freight corridors.

  3. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has increased funding through its High Priority Grant program, directing resources to expand truck parking nationwide.

Why is there a truck parking shortage?

Multiple factors contribute to the shortage of parking:

  1. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate: ELDs enforce strict HOS regulations, increasing demand for parking as drivers must stop after a set number of hours.

  2. Old infrastructure: Many rest areas require renovations, but state budgets often fall short of funding necessary upgrades.

  3. Shipper policies: Some shippers prohibit truck parking at their facilities due to concerns about litter or property damage, forcing drivers to search for alternatives.

  4. Competition with other vehicles: Recreational vehicles (RVs) and passenger cars often occupy truck spots, further limiting availability.

Long-term solutions for the parking crisis

  1. Federal initiatives: Recent federal grants have focused on expanding parking capacity. In 2024, $33 million was allocated to create 170 new parking spaces in Louisiana and Texas.

  2. State-level efforts: State governments, guided by resources like the American Transportation Research Institute's guidebooks, are exploring strategies to improve parking facilities.

  3. Private sector contributions: Companies such as Love’s Travel Stops and Big Rig Parking continue expanding their networks, offering free and paid parking options to meet the growing demand.

5 best parking tricks and tips

With parking shortages growing and demand continually outpacing supply, securing the best parking options requires careful planning and foresight. Limited parking spaces often leave drivers with few choices, sometimes forcing them to park in unsafe or restricted areas. 

However, practical solutions are available to help truckers make the most of their parking options. Implementing these best parking tricks and tips allows drivers to save time, prioritize safety, and reduce unnecessary frustrations.

  1. Plan for paid parking if arriving late

For truckers running late and unable to secure free parking, paid parking can be an option. While most drivers prefer free parking options, it’s often worth planning for paid parking ahead of time, especially when your schedule places you in high-demand areas during late hours. Apps like Trucker Path, Truck Smart by TA Petro, and Love’s Connect allow drivers to reserve parking spots well in advance—sometimes up to 30 days ahead.

Paid parking facilities often provide additional benefits, such as improved security, well-lit areas, and proximity to essential amenities. Knowing you have a guaranteed parking spot can significantly reduce the stress of late-night arrivals. For many drivers, the cost justifies the peace of mind with pre-booked parking. Even when paid parking isn’t your first choice, keeping it as a backup plan ensures you avoid unsafe or illegal parking situations.

  1. Take advantage of rest areas

Rest areas offer some of the most convenient parking options for truckers, especially considering their accessibility and cost. These facilities are strategically located along major highways, making them an excellent choice for quick and easy parking during breaks. One of the primary benefits of rest areas is that parking is typically free, which is a huge advantage for drivers working on tight budgets.

However, parking in the rest area is in high demand and tends to fill up quickly. To secure a spot, planning your route carefully and aiming to arrive early is essential. Rest areas often have wide on-and-off ramps, allowing easier maneuvering, even for larger vehicles. While not all rest areas offer advanced amenities like showers or restaurants, they remain a practical option for truckers seeking quick, no-cost stops during long hauls.

  1. Arrive early to secure parking

Timing plays a critical role in securing the best parking spots. Truck parking availability varies greatly depending on location, time of day, and the overall demand in the area. Many truckers plan their routes to ensure they arrive at their desired parking location well before peak hours. This strategy is particularly effective in high-traffic areas with acute parking shortages.

Parking early guarantees a safe spot and allows truckers to avoid the frustration and time wasted searching for available spaces. It’s especially useful for those driving into regions with limited parking facilities. Some drivers prefer to operate during nighttime, as parking availability tends to increase in the early morning when many spaces open up. Planning your driving schedule around parking availability can save time, reduce stress, and ensure compliance with HOS regulations.

  1. Reserve parking in advance

One of the most effective ways to ensure parking is to reserve a spot in advance. With the rise of technology and mobile apps tailored to truckers, reserving parking has never been easier. Apps like DAT One and Pilot Flying J allow drivers to check real-time parking availability and book spaces at their desired location.

This proactive approach eliminates the guesswork and anxiety often associated with finding parking. Reservations provide the security of knowing that a spot awaits you, even during peak hours or in high-demand areas. For drivers planning long routes, reserving multiple parking spots along the way can be a game-changer, offering a seamless and stress-free experience.

  1. Prioritize parking with amenities

While safety and availability are top priorities when choosing parking, the presence of amenities can make a significant difference in the overall experience. Facilities offering restrooms, showers, dining options, and even Wi-Fi allow drivers to rest and recharge without making additional stops.

By selecting parking locations with these conveniences, truckers save valuable time and improve the quality of their downtime. Amenities like clean restrooms and healthy dining options can contribute to a driver’s well-being, which is critical for long-term success on the road. Apps like Dock411 can help truckers locate parking facilities that meet their needs, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient experience.

Top 10 best parking apps for truckers

With limited parking options for truckers, technology has become a crucial tool in finding the best parking solutions. Truck parking apps offer features like real-time updates, reservation options, and comprehensive directories, ensuring drivers can secure a safe and convenient spot. Below, we explore the top 10 apps to simplify trucker parking challenges and provide the best parking tricks and tips for efficient trip planning.

  1. Trucker Path

Trucker Path is one of the most reliable apps for truckers seeking the best parking options. It offers real-time updates on parking availability, making it easier to find free or paid spots. Additionally, the app allows drivers to reserve parking spaces in advance, reducing the stress of searching for parking during peak hours.

  1. DAT One

DAT One is a great app catering to free and paid parking needs. Its user-friendly interface provides comprehensive information on parking availability, making it a go-to tool for drivers looking to secure the best parking along their routes.

  1. Love’s Connect App

Love’s Connect App combines convenience and reliability, allowing truckers to check and reserve parking at Love’s locations nationwide. The app ensures truckers can find the best parking spaces without last-minute hassles.

  1. Pilot Flying J

Pilot Flying J simplifies the parking process by offering reservation services at truck stops across the country. Drivers can book a spot in advance and confidently plan their journey, knowing they have access to safe and best parking facilities.

  1. Truck Smart by TA Petro

Truck Smart by TA Petro is designed for truckers seeking advanced booking options. The app lets drivers reserve paid parking spaces up to 30 days in advance, ensuring they have access to secure and best parking locations.

  1. Dock411

Dock411 offers detailed information about shipper facilities, including parking, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and more. This app helps truckers make informed decisions and locate the best parking spots near their destinations.

  1. Park My Truck

Park My Truck provides a list of nearby options for those looking for free parking. The app's simplicity and focus on cost-effective solutions make it a valuable resource for finding the best parking opportunities.

  1. Truck Parking USA

Truck Parking USA offers a comprehensive directory of parking locations nationwide. With its extensive database, truckers can quickly locate the best parking facilities that suit their needs.

  1. MyTruckParking

MyTruckParking emphasizes private parking solutions and reservation features. Drivers can use the app to secure private spaces tailored to their routes, ensuring access to convenient and best parking options.

  1. Big Rig Parking

Big Rig Parking caters to truckers looking for paid parking at privately owned lots. The app is a growing platform, offering more options for drivers to find the best and most secure parking solutions tailored to their specific requirements.

Drive smart by parking better

Truck parking challenges may feel overwhelming, but they also represent an opportunity to for smarter strategies and innovative solutions. With a proactive mindset, the best parking options are within reach. Utilizing apps, best parking tricks and tips, and staying informed can turn these challenges into better safety, convenience, and efficiency opportunities. Always remember: the road ahead is as much about the journey as it is about finding the right place to pause and recharge.

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Author: Road Legends

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