Being a trucker in essence is a physical job with a great responsibility. If you are looking to be a trustworthy carrier or an owner-operator then keeping your fleet in working order and having them equipped with the right equipment is the key principle. Having trucking tools on hand all the time will mean that your road traffic will be safe, that you and the other drivers would be able to do your job well, that the products you are hauling will be safe and sound, that you will avoid all sorts of unpleasant situations. Sometimes they are even very important to the life and health of a driver.
We all know that the business of freight transportation can hardly be done without unexpected circumstances, unpredictable weather conditions and changes in plans. Nevertheless, those may not touch you in the least or have little influence in contributing if you take care of the proper truck driver equip list. Investing in quality, reliable and durable things to have in your truck today may keep you from being helplessly stranded in the middle of now here tomorrow.
By the way, we cannot imagine the modern tooling for a truckers tool kit being limited by material tools only. As an advanced carrier you will want digital tools to come to your assistance. For example, it is hard to imagine the current trucking without online load boards or GPS systems. Also, you might use digital platforms to conduct your accounting smoothly or search for professional dispatch assistance from professionals such as triumphfleet services .
Read on for suggestions on ways to cover all of your bases.
50 Best Tools for Truckers
1. A tool box
A quick spooler – work instruments are going to be a majority of this list. Some tools are very small and can easily be lost while others require special storage because they are fragile. That is why you need to consider buying a roomy container for all these things. You kill two birds with one stone obtaining a tool box. Firstly, tools are saved from possible damage which is caused by bumping along a bad road, and therefore, their service life is prolonged. Secondly, it is handy if everything you need is keeping in a particular place. It will save you and your drivers a lot of time and energy every time your truck needs to be fixed urgently.
Another functional advantage of a tool box is that of an organizer. Lots of instruments are virtually identical visually, but variable by their sizes or functions. It is great to have the capability to distinguish them immediately once an emergency occurs.
Knock the volume of your tools collection at hand-make sure that your tool box is suitable for this volume and pay attention to its rigidity. Always place the box in a safe place in your truck from being hit.
2. A socket set
It is a real remnant of a tool set of any kind, so make sure that you select a good one. A socket set represents various sized detachable metal sockets that fit over the head of nuts and bolts. Socket sets commonly have handles made accordingly and ratchet to attach the sockets and twist them either to tighten or release nuts or bolts. There are manifold types and sizes in the market as per the inquiry of customers. Some of them are huge and are composed of versatile additional equipment such as extension bars and universal joints. However, if you are an average driver that doesn’t have the qualifications of a mechanic, you will be fine with a basic or semi-professional set.
3. Crescent wrenches
Crescent wrenches are also referred to as adjustable wrenches. This tool is at the list of top tools to have in your truck. You need to purchase different sizes of wrenches – the most popular ones are 6”, 8” and 10” ones; though 4” crescent wrench can also be of service when you need to approach tiny items. We also recommend getting 12” and 14” wrenches since it are appropriate ones for fixing your trailer and truck hitch.
4. Combination wrenches
A combination wrench is also a popular tool used by truckers. They have an open end at one side and a closed ring-shaped (same one as box wrenches have) end at the other. The open end is good for quickly fitting on nuts and bolts, whereas the closed end is for a better grip and to provide more torque. Their common sizes are 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″ and 5/8″ and it is important to purchase some extra metric fasteners along.
5. Dog bone wrenches
They are also referred to as double-ended wrenches or 4-way wrenches. These will save you a lot of trouble one day most likely. They are flexible multi-functional instruments which are great when it comes to working on large sizes of bolts, nuts or screws. Besides, dog bone wrenches are essential when dealing with parts of machines that are hardly accessible. Since they have multiples of sockets on both sides it is sometimes possible to use dog bone wrenches instead of crescent and combination ones!
6. A 3-lb. sledgehammer
Having a light hammer in your truck is something you can use any minute. For example, you can drop the fifth wheel with it. This tool will also help you to check up on tire pressure on a regular basis. Just a little bit hit all the tyres and listen carefully. Ideally all of the tires should sound exactly the same, if they don’t, chances are that you’d like to inflate the inconvenient one.
7. A regular hammer
Even though you have got a light sledgehammer, some heaviness won’t be extra. It is a multi-purpose tool and may be especially useful during the winter. Try letting off frozen brakes, or knocking frozen ice and dirt off pinata padworks and catch latch. Remember that you must control the force you apply to the hammer, and also you should only use it for strong parts of your vehicle. This tool is in absolutely no way designed for working with delicate things.
8. A metal dowel rod
In continuation of the topic of hauling loads during the cold half of the year, metal dowel rods are excellent at breaking off ice, snow and hoarfrost. Same like with hammers, one needs to be extremely careful not to harm auto parts.
9. Screwdrivers
Cannot spell ‘screwdriver’ without ‘driver’ and vice versa we cannot imagine a truck driver without this magical tool in their kit. This instrument, usually which consists of a handle and a metal rod of the special end is known even for those who haven’t anything to do mechanic and repair activity. There are innumerable screws within and without a truck, here’s why you need to arm yourself with as many sizes and types of screwdrivers. The primary types are known as slotted screwdrivers, Phillips-head screwdrivers, Hex screwdrivers and Torx screwdrivers. You may wish to purchase also one or a couple of tools with interchangeable rods. It will likely save one some money, and certainly place in your tool box.
10. Pilers
You should also pack different pliers so as to be able to conduct a repair in any level. 5″ ones are generally used for break-downs which can be quickly fixed, and bigger pliers – for more time-consuming cases. Needle-nosed pliers or long-nosed pliers, as they are also called, are a great type of tool that can be used to work in tight spaces or to work with extremely small elements.
11. Vice grips
These are sometimes referred to as Vise-Grips, Mole wrenches or Mole grips. They have a pair of jaws, which can be adjusted to different sizes and lock into place, by allowing them to grasp on to bolts, nuts, pipes etc. Vise grips are commonly used where you might find a conventional wrench or pliers doesn’t really have enough grip on the object or lock you need to hold on to something very hard while you’re working on it. They are also super handy at bending wires, removing and loosening fasteners and cinching leaky pipes.
12. A wire cutter and a piece of electrical tape
Every driver will agree that electrical wires are easily degraded to bald areas. To resolve the problem, you will need to go get a wire cutter and some electrical (also known as insulating) tape from your tool box. Of course they are just a temporary solution and better if you roll to the nearest truck shop to get new wires.
13. A crowbar
This tool is also known as wrecking bar or a pry bar. A crowbar is another multi-functional device that you’ll want to have by the side of the road. It may be used to pry apart hard materials, unstuck joints and fasteners, dismantle fixtures, remove nails, break down pallets, and so on.
14. Heat shrink tubing or tape
A common and informal name for them is heatshrink. It is used for the environmental protection of wires and prevents from their abrasion. Also, it can be used for electrical repair purposes, particularly, for tying them together and forming cable entry seals.
15. A heavy-duty box knife
Also known as a heavy-duty box cutter or a utility knife, the tool can be far more useful for you than you think! Their ‘competence’ is not restricted to breaking down cardboard boxes, they can slice through a range of different materials including plastic, carpet, leather and even light-duty metals. It is not a case of skimping on the knife. It is better to spend on an expensive one from a trusted manufacturer than purchase a cheap one that will call for a replacement within a couple of months. Also, have extra blades so they can be reserved.
16. Jumper cables
They are also called booster cables and are used for jump-starting a dead or low battery vehicle. It is really stressful in any situation once your battery strikes a low-level during your way. To avoid delays that will cost you lots of money and hamper your services to a shipper or broker it is a wise decision always to have jumper cables in a truck.
17. Extra fuses
Fuses are protective devices of the electrical system of the car. They are designed to prevent electrical circuits from putting a big load on and damaging the components, or even fire. They are an important part of the electrical system in your truck, however, they are fragile and they tend to blow quite often. That is why extra ones are never extra. The good news is they don’t cost the earth, and so restocking those regularly won’t break the bank either.
18. A tire air pressure gauge
It goes without saying that controlling the air pressure on your tires plays a major role in road safety. If tires are underinflated, not only do they spoil the overall performance of your vehicle, not only prolong brake distances, but increase fuel consumption, but pose a threat of blowouts and road accidents. Before hitting a road, buy an accurate air pressure gauge, check on the indexes at least once every day.
19. A tire depth gauge
Similarly, there is no question about the importance of proper tire depth. Firstly, controlling the tire depth and replacing tires in time is one of road safety, and secondly, it is an object of legal regulations. Do not forget to take the depth occasionally to prevent you fines and other unpleasant situations.
20. Duct tape
Duct tape, a cloth- or scrim-backed tape that is usually of a silver color, characterized by strong adhesiveness. It is water-resistant and works on a wide variety of materials and surfaces. Besides, it is unbelievably cheap! Duct tape is a general-purpose that can be used for instance to temporarily stitch together damaged wires, cables or other ropes.
21. Hoses and belts
Unfortunately, belts, hoses and other elastic items don’t always last. We recommend you to have some extras near always. You do not want burn heaps of time and money because of the lack of such a small detail.
22. A mini LED-flashlight
Here and next several list items we are going to mention the sources of light we think every trucker needs to carry. We first start with a small flashlight because a cell phone flashlight is not always able to replace it. You can do your versatile tasks with one single flashlight – you can have a daily circle check of a truck and simply use it for your personal light outside working hours.
23. A cranking flashlight
Another popular alternative spread term for this lamp is a mechanically powered flashlight. The principle of its work is the following: powered by a battery which recharges due to a generator, which is turned by a hand crank on the flashlight. 1 minute of cranking ensures approximately 30 to 60 minutes of light. It is therefore a tool which is independent of batteries which will not make you down under any circumstances.
24. A headlamp
When it comes to demanding repairs involving some amount of time it is important to have both your hands free. Moreover, one has a more important advantage of a headlamp that is that you’ll have the light anywhere you go. It means you will be as flexible as possible in your movements, especially if you will need to constantly fetch something from your truck and bring it to the trailer, or vice versa.
25. An 18” Maglite
It is also a great idea to equip yourself with bigger sources of the light. 18” Maglite is a professional reliable tool that can be used either when fixing something in the dead of night, or even alert passersby about your emergency stop.
26. A work lamp
This is also a huge source of light that can be fixed or being hanged with a rope over the place where you have to work on something.
27. Extra batteries
Almost all of the sources of light require batteries, and the life service of the batteries sometimes come to an end at the least appropriate moment. We know the feeling of how frustrating it is, which is why we insist for replacements of the functional batteries regardless.
28. Zip ties
Continuing the discussion on small, but important things, we cannot avoid mentioning zip ties (also called cable ties). They are useful not only for bundling wires together but holding larger objects together. You are able to build a longer line with a couple of zip ties, and, say, secure some of your belongings in the truck to make sure that they don’t slip away on a trip.
29. A first aid kit
Even though we gave it to the middle of the list, the first aid kit is one of the vital elements in a truck. The reason is not simply legislative, however. A typical first aid kit includes bandagers, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and pain medication. Extensive versions may also have CPR masks, emergency blankets and triangular bandages. These will come in handy all these if any accident occurs. Even though there are health issues that can never be completely neutralized by what is in a first aid kit, sometimes immediate primary medical assistance saves lives.
30. A lighter
A simple lighter can come in handy for sealing frayed edges of rope or nylon straps, melting wax for lubricating zippers or hinges or even temporarily heating the metal itself to make it more pliable for minor repairs to be done on the field. It is an extremely budget tool that performs various tasks and will also help you in your everyday routine.
31. An extra cell phone
Having a spare cell phone, may be seen as unnecessary to an individual who is based in a specific settlement (however, it is a matter of dispute). If you are a traveler or a truck driver, then always being in touch with the world is the end of the day. Firstly, if anything happens to your main phone, there is no way of getting in touch with your dispatch or broker. Secondly, it is always necessary to be prepared to take an emergency call.
32. A spare jug of oil
Since truckers drive long distances, it is very important to have some engine oil in reserve. After a leak has been obtained, you’ll want to have an adequate supply of the substance to make it to the closest repair shop. Also, you can keep the oil level up to keep the engine running healthy and well.
33. A spare gallon of coolant
Same here, having enough antifreeze is essential to the proper serviceability of your engine. If you do not follow this rule it may even cause breakdown and road accidents.
34. Windshield washer fluid
As a driver, you will always want to have excellent road visibility. Windshields are constantly affected by the environment, insects, or the weather conditions. Wiping your windshield regularly will keep it from having any serious stains. The fluid is also used as a lubricant for the wiper blade mechanism and extends its service life.
35. Cleanser and disinfectant
Cleaning your truck and trailer is very important in the business of trucking. Since trucks are huge vehicles, you’ll want to stock yourself with a quantity of cleaning products. It is as important for your health and well being and providing quality service to your clients. Nobody wants to get dirty products with side odors.
36. WD-40 penetrating oil
It is an ultra utility product to have in a truck. It has lubricant properties, reduces the corrosion by displacing water from different parts of the auto, and dissolves and removes the dirt or sticky adhesives. It is also good at silencing squeaky connections. You will never regret taking the time to invest in WD-40.
37. Silicone
Another simple, but very multifunctional product. It is a great sealant as well as shielding your freight from minor leaks. It is durable, resistant to heat and it is not affected by the influence of most chemicals.
38. Safety glasses
So now let’s talk about your safety as a human being when driving a truck. We do imply that you must buy specific protection glasses, because who knows what will happen during a trip or repair. You’ll want to secure your eyes against dust, flying and chemical fumes. It will be great if they have UV protection since being a trucker means being outside and in the sun for an extended period of time.
39. Gloves
When we speak about glasses, do not forget that you should not stick only to one pair. Invest in thermal gloves to protect your hands from cold, a resistant pair of gloves for repairs and leather ones for cleaning the windshield, checking for oil and fueling.
40. A lumbar support cushion
Driving a truck involves sitting in a static position a lot. You will probably not notice it right away, but years and years of this kind of activity take their toll. To be able to reduce the spinal pains and damage, it is recommended to invest in lumbar support cushions. It reducing pressure from your lower back and just makes you feel comfortable running.
41. Rags
The more pieces of cloth you have in your truck the better. You need to have microfiber towels, a cloth transmission for glass transmission, some stick rags for major contamination, you just need to wipe off unexpected leakages, grease stains, or just water spills.
42. Emergency rations
We all know the situations wherein we have to be in food shops either too far away or even inaccessible due to being spent on the road and waiting for help. You always have to have some kind of non-perishables in your truck in case of an emergency food and drink.
43. A signal vest
Also called a reflective safety vest, this is a waistcoat in neon colour with reflective strips on it. It is important to point out that it is regulated by law to wear the vest when you are repairing your truck or you are on an emergency stop. Aside from the legislative requirements it is a matter of your safety because it makes you more visible to others.
44. A fire extinguisher
It goes without saying how important it is to have the means to extinguish or be able to contain a fire. As a truck driver, it’s likely that you might need more than one fire extinguisher, but do not be stingy on them. This tool may save you thousands of dollars, and your own health as well as your life.
45. A truck parking tool
Let’s conclude the list with some non-physical tools, that will also help you make your life easier. Finding a proper place to park your vehicle is easy said than said. Not all the spots have truck parking, not all roads have a nice driveway to parking or something you need to get to. However, you can save yourself a lot of time, fuel and energy if you install a mobile app. Not only can you know where you can park, but even reserve a place!
46. A GPS device
Many brokers and shippers require tracking and you will want to know where exactly you are at the time yourself. There is a wide choice of GPS tools, including: portable GPS navigation devices, cell phone GPS apps, handheld GPS tools and many others. We are 100% confirmed that it is impossible to operate a freight transportation business without GPS nowadays.
47. Load board
Modern trucking is mainly characterized by the search for loads on the Internet. It is understandable that if you have a small or a bigger fleet, then you are generally counting the onboard dispatch team. However, not only do owner-operators need load boards, there are owners/operators who cooperate with dispatch, but should even have load boards.
Firstly, there is always a chance of finding the right load by yourself faster. Secondly, sometimes you will want to view the recommended load details yourself.
48. Market data
Trucking is a high-paced job that you would want to be able to keep up with the trends and forecasts. To get an insight on the current prices, demand to supply ratio, most profitable types of loads, you can do your research. Also, you may select a reading info on resources like as DAT RateView Analysis which gathers and analyses all the key tendencies professionally.
49. A freight factoring service
Most owner-operators and carriers choose to cooperate with experienced factoring companies. Although you pay some interest, it will optimize your cash flow, help to receive payments quicker and save you valuable time. By leaving your finances to a factoring company, you will become more focused on your responsibilities.
50. A qualified dispatch team
If you are not thinking about building your dispatch team, however, being an owner-operator is not an option for you either, you can consider establishing a cooperation with a trusted team. We, triumphfleet services provide excellent dispatch service and are client and result oriented. Contact us for cooperation!
Conclusion
A set of tools can look whopping, especially when you get theoretical knowledge about a tool and its applications. Although we have described fifty basic tools for truckers in the article, the actual amount of them may vary significantly and hit 3-digit numbers. However, it is easier to make a decent tool kit in real life. Write down approximate list of tools you need now (do not hesitate to take ideas from the list above), then just go to specialized auto-store or make online shopping. Fortunately, the selection of tool is infinite these days.
Start with the most basic and multi-functional tools, plus those legislation and regulation requires. No need to purchase half a store at once, but be sure you revisit and restock regularly the products you’ve gotten. Once you begin to start making more money it would be right to invest in more expensive and durable tools than before. Growing and developing as a carrier means growing your arsenal of applicable equipment. Since you reap what you saw, your efforts will work out in the long run.
👉 Contact Triumph Fleet Services at www.TriumphFleetServices.com or call us at [+1 (682)900-3356]