Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/44411
Among the functions of the TruckSmart app from TA-Petro are quick-push calls to RoadSquad mobile services: The RoadSquad national call center captures precise coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the downed trucker, providing RoadSquad precise dispatch capability. The TruckSmart app updates parking availability at all TA-Petro locations every two hours. Company rep Tom Liutkis notes the certainty this adds to finding space in the crowded evening hours. If a driver sees 30 spots available 30 miles out, he "can feel pretty certain he'll have a place to park for the night." TruckSmart developers are working on a Web-enabling interface for users of other smartphone platforms. A "The database of truckstops powering this app is the most complete in the country and is updated daily," makers of the Trucker Tools app say. Services, such as TransFlo and TripPak, available at each stop are also listed and can be searched. The CAT Scale Locator application for iPhone is also available for Android users. The app allows drivers to locate the nearest CAT Scale through GPS on their phone. Drivers can also search for CAT Scales in other areas and get directions. s a smartphone user, you're probably already aware of many of the tools for networking, weather, navigation and more. Facebook, Twitter, Google Maps and the Weather Channel, among others, offer one-touch access to their networking, microblogging, and route- and emergency-planning functions. Games — from Scrabble-like Words With Friends to the popular Angry Birds — fill in dead time. But trucking sup- pliers and service providers — as well as enterprising drivers — have been developing apps with specific functions to help you efficiently navigate on the road. From logbook and tracking apps to document services and single-function surcharge- and scale- math cheaters, there's likely an app for it. TRIP PLANNING Owner-operator Miguel Dunkelberger, leased to LR & Sons of Grand Rapids, Mich., frequently uses Pilot Travel Centers' store locator app (iPhone), which uses the GPS functionality of the iPhone to locate the nearest Pilot or Flying J location, then offers turn-by-turn directions to the stop. TravelCen- ters of America's new TruckSmart app (iPhone, Android) has the same functionality for TA and Petro locations, as well as stops' real-time parking availability, fuel price and other data. In May, concurrent with release of the app for Android phones, TA-Petro integrated its UltraOne loy- alty reward program in the app, allowing drivers to check credits, purchase histories and points balances, among other functions. A shower interface enables searching within a 15-mile radius for shower avail- ability (including approximate wait times), shower reservations and push notifications of availability. Truckers News publisher Randall-Reilly Business Media and Information, in collaboration with Pro- Miles and Salebug.com, developed the Truck Stop Coupons app, now expanded and called Trucker Tools (Android, iPhone, Blackberry). The app fea- tures access to specials at truck stops. It includes a complete directory of truck stops as well as other retail locations that sell diesel, with current fuel prices and mapping included. The multifunction app offers access to loads nationwide, cargo insurance deals, real-time traffic, current weather conditions, a driver-to-driver message board and more. Search "Trucker Tools" on the apps markets and, the com- pany says, keep an eye out for significant updates to arrive soon. Unless otherwise noted, the apps discussed here are free and available in the iTunes app store for iPhone or in application markets for other devices. Most iPhone and Android apps are also functional on tablets, such as the iPad, powered by the operating systems, though special tablet versions of the apps may be available with added functionality. For special apps for finding freight, managing money, navigation and the brand-new Trucker Buddy app, check out our special features via http://truckersnews.com/category/Nov-Apps. NOVEMBER 2011 TRUCKERS NEWS 21