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Trucking is a hard business, you don’t need to make it harder by staying offline. Internet is a necessity, even if you’re on the road 24/7. But how do we find the perfect internet to keep up with a trucker’s robust routine? Well, we researched on your behalf and crafted a smart guide to help you locate the best internet options. There’s also a small name-dropping section with some suitable providers. Are you ready? Let’s begin!
Why Do Truckers Need Internet?
According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), there are more than 3.5 million truckers in the US. Whether self-employed or not, this is a huge number to manage. It’s a majorly growing industry with a considerable contribution to the US economy. With 13 million registered trucks on the road, wouldn’t it be unfair if truckers didn’t have the same digital privileges as other drivers? You may ask ‘They’re operating heavy machinery so how does the internet fit into the equation?’ Well, here’s how it can and does help the trucking community.
Factors to Consider for Truckers Getting Internet
If you’re a trucker hunting for a steady and adaptable internet provider, we have a list of factors to help you find the most suitable option. Here’s all you need to know when looking for an optimal trucking connection.
Coverage
With trucking comes traveling, and when on the road, you need consistent connection. Only an ISP with a high coverage rate can keep up with your changing geo-footprint. For instance, Spectrum is available in more than 40 US states, and when you’re covering all these miles, you need something widespread. So, even if your zip code keeps changing, the service and its quality won’t have to.
Speed
The FCC suggests connecting with at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload speed. These minimum requirements allow you to get through a low-maintenance day. But with the rapidly changing geo-patterns, truckers need an internet fast enough to keep up with their speedometer. What’s the point if your internet connection can’t see a route obstruction coming? The right speed can and will alert you in case of emergency, and a slow Internet can even lead to frustrating or potentially life-threatening road situations.
Data Limits
Suppose you’re navigating an urgent delivery to an assigned address and your data limit hits, this will directly impact your goals, performance, and assignment status. Nobody likes internet usage caps, and it’s only natural to want a provider with a great data limit structure. Ideally, no limits are preferred. To commit and deliver, a trucker must have a reliable ISP that acts more like a trusty sidekick on the road.
Did you know: There are exclusive online forums for truckers to connect and form a community
Trucker-friendly Policies
How exactly can an ISP be trucker-friendly? Well, in the following ways:
- Better coverage and high data allowance are a must
- Introducing enhanced billing options
- Wi-Fi spots developed in partnerships with filling stations and stops
- Exclusive data focus on highly used applications and functions
- A customer service that caters to and provides timely assistance to truckers
Nationwide Hotspots
The device and user are constantly moving, how do we remain consistently connected then? With intuitive and active hotspots installed in various locations. This varies between carriers but is effective nonetheless. Brands like Verizon, Optimum, and AT&T are known for their sturdy hotspots across the US.
Internet Options for Truckers
Satellite: Viasat
When it comes to rural coverage, no one does it better than satellite internet providers. If you want a fast, accessible, and affordable satellite internet with no data caps, Viasat is your best bet. It has a reliable speed range and is known to be faster than DSL. The in-motion satellite internet and advanced security features further add to the appeal. If you want amazing satellite internet, here’s a quick look at Viasat:
Speed | Starting Price | Availability | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
25 Mbps - 150 Mbps* | $49.99/mo. | 50 states | Get it Now |
* Speeds are "up to," are not guaranteed and will vary.
Dial (855) 771-3154 and Find Suitable Satellite Internet Plans Now!
4G/5G: Xfinity
Another incredible option that allows you to stay connected on the go. Xfinity Mobile users can utilize around 22 million WiFi hotspots around the country. Learn more about how to get it here. If you’re looking exclusively for mobile data coverage, know that it’s available in more than 95% of the areas in America. You can speedily send texts, stream your shows in breaks, or play games without a hiccup. Here’s the best plan for stable and endless network reliability:
Data Limit | Starting Price | Availability | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
Unlimited | $45/line per mo. | 40+ states | Get it Now |
MiFi: Verizon
Mobile WiFi or MiFi is an innovative technology for users like truckers. These services cater to people who are constantly on the move and need instant internet no matter the location. Verizon offers commendable hotspot data plans to pair with your portable hotspot devices. Its quick and adaptable service is well-suited for a trucker. Here are some surface-level details about Verizon:
Speeds | Starting Price | Availability | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
300 Mbps – 2.3 Gbps | $34.99/mo.* | 30+ states | Get it Now |
*w/ Auto Pay & any Verizon mobile plan See Details
Public WiFi
This is a rather unsafe but still useful option. If you are not willing to pay for private internet access, public WiFi slots may be your cup of tea. Although your device might get exposed to certain malware and the network traffic might slow you down, it will work. The only condition is finding a spot that contains an open-to-all facility like this.
We hope this handy guide serves you well on your next trucking adventure. Not only did we cover why truckers might need internet but also elaborated on factors and potential ISPs. For more information, visit our website or get in touch for a custom suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best internet for truckers?
This depends on various factors. But based on coverage, speed, and usage policies, Xfinity, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile really stand out.
Is Starlink good for truckers?
Check for services and offers available in your area