A working phone is a pivotal point in your productivity, so choosing the right device is vital. Modern cell phones provide truckers with once-unimaginable possibilities, from Wi-Fi connectivity to tailored solutions such as barcode scanning. We’ve gathered the 10 best mobile devices, apps, and accessories for truckers in one handy guide.
Top 10 Phones for Truckers
Let’s dive right in. Keep reading for our top trucker phone picks, from simple and affordable flip phones to advanced smartphones.
CAT S22 Flip
CAT S22 Flip proves that less is more, combining a rugged build, long battery life, and versatile connectivity options for an affordable price. The device runs on Android 11 Go Edition and is equipped with two cameras, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. Like all CAT phones, it supports mobile device management and enterprise mobility management software.
The best thing about the CAT S22 Flip is its IP68 water and dust protection. The device withstands drops from a 6-feet height onto concrete and extreme temperatures. Oversized buttons ensure easy texting, while its slim design improves ergonomics. It’s a cost-effective solution for any trucker looking for a simple yet durable and functional cell phone.
Kyocera DuraForce 2
Kyocera DuraForce 2 is a rugged smartphone designed to handle all the rigors of active daily use. The large 5-inch screen is protected by Gorilla Glass, so there’s no need to worry about dropping the device from a cabin height. The device maintains military-grade MIL-810 and IP68 waterproof ratings.
The rugged build isn’t the only advantage of the Kyocera DuraForce 2. Its main camera shoots 4K video, and the powerful 3240 mAh battery guarantees 21 hours of continuous talk. What’s more, the device supports Kyocera’s Device Control software for easy remote device management within enterprises and a push-to-talk feature.
Sonim XP8
Sonim is the industry’s leading manufacturer of rugged handheld devices and tailored software solutions, so it’s no wonder the Sonim XP8 deserves a place on our list. The device can be submerged in liquids, dropped onto concrete, and operated in extreme temperatures – that’s more durability than any trucker could possibly need.
The 4900 mAh removable and replaceable battery is one of the strongest sides of this device, providing a solid 30 hours of talk time. Programmable buttons and a push-to-talk feature enable a more efficient workflow. Additionally, the device features a great camera, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi and supports SonimWare software.
Sonim XP3
Sonim XP3 is a simple, affordable flip phone for truckers who need to stay connected regardless of the weather and location. Unlike many rugged phones, the Sonim XP3 easily fits in a pocket while withstanding shocks, impacts, submersion in water, and extreme temperatures. The 1,500 mAh battery is removable and provides up to three days of continuous use without charging.
Sonim XP3 may be the best phone for calling you will ever find, supporting over 14 LTE frequency bands and HPUE. Like any modern device, Sonim XP3 supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Nobody would expect browsing on a flip phone to be fun, but it does the job of keeping you in touch with your colleagues and family.
Kyocera DuraXe
Kyocera DuraXe is another rugged flip phone combining clear phone quality and long battery life. The device withstands submersion in water and drops onto concrete without any significant damage. The 1,770 mAh battery is also a step up from many other similarly priced rugged phones.
Kyocera DuraXe supports LTE bands 2, 5, 12, 14, and 66, making it ideal for AT&T data plans. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support enables versatile connectivity, though the small screen hints that browsing is only supported for essential features and not watching YouTube content. The device comes with pre-installed Kyocera Device Control software for easy remote employee phone management.
CAT S62 Pro
CAT S62 Pro boasts a FLIR 3.5 professional-grade thermal sensor and programmable keys to improve your workflow efficiency. The phone is rated IP69 and MIL-810H, so you can be sure it will withstand the toughest environments. A large 5.7-inch full HD display ensures clear visibility even under direct sunlight.
As for connectivity features, the phone supports NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. The 4,000 mAh battery is non-removable, which may be seen as a drawback compared with most rugged handheld devices. However, it still ensures an entire day of continuous use.
CAT S42 H+
Rugged smartphones don’t have to cost a fortune. The CAT S42 H+ is an affordable choice for truckers looking for long battery life, great camera quality, durability, and comfortable browsing. The phone features a 5.5-inch display with Gorilla Glass protection and a non-removable 4200 mAh battery. What truly makes this device stand out is its antimicrobial technology that prevents bacteria cell growth.
CAT S42 H+ is equipped with NFC, Bluetooth, LTE, GPS, and 4G support. The device runs on Android 11 and supports future updates.
Sonim RS60
The RS60 is one of Sonim’s latest and most functional smartphones. In fact, it’s a powerful handheld computer that fits in your pocket. The most impressive thing about this device is its removable 8,000 mAh battery with QuickCharge 3.0 support. And like any Sonim device, the RS60 withstands drops onto concrete, submersion in water and chemicals, and temperatures from -4 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sonim RS60 features an array of connectivity features, including Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, NFC, LTE, and 4G. Truckers will undoubtedly appreciate the programmable keys, push-to-talk feature support, and built-in barcode scanner designed to improve workflow efficiency.
CAT S61
The CAT S61 is engineered with tough working conditions in mind. Although it looks like an ordinary smartphone, you can drop it from a truck’s cabin height into a rain puddle without any harm. The device has been thoroughly tested and has been awarded an IP69 and MIL-810G certification.
Additionally, the CAT S61 features an industry-leading thermal camera, powerful flash, image sensor, push-to-talk support, and a Class 2 laser. These impressive features make the device a wise long-term investment in your productivity that offers everything you need on the road for an adequate price.
LG Phoenix 4
Don’t be deceived by the LG Phoenix 4’s ordinary look. It isn’t a regular smartphone that breaks after falling from your coffee table. The device has a rugged build and a powerful 2500 mAh battery. And as a proper smartphone should, it enables comfortable browsing and accessory connection by Bluetooth.
What Are the Phone Requirements for a Trucker?
An ideal phone for a trucker must provide excellent data coverage. Connectivity versatility is a must – the device should support different cellular frequencies and have Wi-Fi. Although many truckers have professional-grade GPS devices installed in their vehicles, GPS in a phone is essential. Truckers may have to take urgent calls while driving without withdrawing their focus from the road, so Bluetooth is required to connect a headset.
Apart from connectivity features, a perfect phone for a trucker should have a powerful battery guaranteeing at least a day of active use. A rugged build will ensure the phone doesn’t break if it falls from the height of a truck’s cabin. Investing in a rugged mobile device helps to save money on repairs and device replacement in the long term.
Top 5 Apps for Truckers
Software developed for logistics professionals can significantly improve the workflow of truckers. From communication on the go to cargo processing and scanning, we’ve gathered the five best apps to meet truckers’ needs.
1. Waze
Waze is a popular GPS app available on Android and iOS that provides information on traffic jams, road construction, and police along the way. It’s extremely helpful when your schedule is tightly packed and every minute counts.
2. Weigh My Truck
Weigh My Truck is an app developed by CAT Scale Company, enabling the automatic weighing of trucks using CAT scale points located across the U.S. All you need to do is arrive at the point and pay with your mobile device. Your truck weight information and PDF receipt will be sent by email. The app is available on iOS and Android.
3. SonimWare Logistics Software
Sonim offers a multitude of professional software solutions tailored to the needs of specific industries, including logistics. Sonim’s rugged handheld devices are equipped with the SonimWare app, which enables push-to-talk features, barcode scanning, cloud file storage, and remote device management.
4. Kyocera Device Control for Smartphones
Kyocera is an industry-leading manufacturer of rugged handheld devices. Its Device Control app enables businesses to control employee devices remotely. Employers can limit access to certain features that hurt workforce productivity, restrict time spent in apps, configure settings, and control security features. The app is pre-installed on Kyocera smartphones.
5. Trucker Tools
Trucker Tools is a tool developed for quick and efficient route planning. It provides you with information on all truck stops, rest areas, weigh stations, washes, grocery stores, and parking spots along the way. The app runs on iOS and Android.
Top Cell Phone Plans for Truckers
Finding the right cell phone plan is vital for a trucker, as they are constantly on the go. We’ve gathered some of the best cell phone plans to keep you connected at all times.
Verizon Get More Unlimited
Verizon Get More Unlimited plan includes unlimited calls, texts, 4G and LTE data, and a free Apple Music subscription at $90 monthly. The data is throttled after you use over 75 gigabytes per month.
AT&T Unlimited Elite
AT&T Unlimited Elite plan includes unlimited calls, texts, and data across the entire U.S. for $85 monthly. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to unlimited 5G data. The best thing is, you won’t be charged extra if you reach the monthly data limit of 100 gigabytes. Instead, your data speed will be throttled to 128 kilobytes per second.
Google Fi Unlimited
Google Fi Unlimited plan is priced at $50 monthly per line and includes unlimited calls, texts, and data throttled after 22 gigabytes are used. Additionally, the plan provides the user with 100 gigabytes of Google One cloud storage useful for spring work-related documents. This plan is among the best options for truckers traveling internationally, as it offers free calls, texts, and data in Mexico and Canada.
Flip Phones vs. Smartphones
Form-factor is an important factor to consider when choosing a cell phone. While smartphones are rapidly taking over the mobile device industry, flip phones remain an excellent option for work. They offer equally great coverage as smartphones and, often, even better battery life due to their smaller screens. Furthermore, modern flip phones also feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and typically cost significantly less than smartphones.
Meanwhile, some features are significantly easier to use on a large smartphone screen – think GPS, watching videos, or reading PDFs. Smartphones also tend to have more storage space, better cameras, and overall better multimedia capabilities. Furthermore, some professional apps aren’t optimized for flip phones and only work as intended on smartphones. While all of this comes at an extra price, the investment is worth it.
A common point of concern for truckers is the fragility of smartphone touch screens. Thankfully, that’s not an issue with rugged devices engineered specifically for tough working conditions.
Best Cell Phone Headset for Truckers
A truck driver’s day is spent behind the steering wheel, and there’s typically no time to stop to make a call. A Bluetooth headset is essential for any trucker. It has to provide reliable connectivity, superb sound quality, comfort, and durability. Here are our top picks to keep you safe and connected while driving.
Plantronics Voyager Legend UC Bluetooth Headset
Plantronics Voyager Legend UC is an excellent all-around choice combining comfort, long battery life, great reception, and an array of useful perks. You can manage calls across multiple devices and quickly tailor the notification settings to your liking through the control panel.
Sennheiser SD-PRO1 SD DECT Wireless Headset
Sennheiser SD-PRO1 SD DECT is designed for comfort throughout the entire day of driving. Thanks to the noise-canceling microphone, road bumps won’t distract your communication. The headset can pair with four devices simultaneously and features ActiveGard technology to protect your hearing from sudden sound bursts.
Jabra Supreme Bluetooth Headset
Jabra Supreme is an affordable option that features everything a truck driver needs – a noise-canceling mic, enhanced voice clarity technology, multi-device connectivity, and long battery life.
Cell Phone Booster for Truckers
A trucker’s path doesn’t always lie in major metro areas. Sometimes, you need to make an important call while driving on a rural road, and weak reception becomes a real problem. Thankfully, the issue is easily solvable with a cell phone signal booster. This device works as an external antenna, amplifying the cell phone signal strength. In a nutshell, a signal booster improves the phone’s 4G, LTE, 3G, and 2G reception and maintains a reliable connection.
Analog signal boosters are the most popular and affordable option that can be installed on the vehicle. Smart signal boosters provide up to 100 dB gains and don’t require an exterior antenna or installation.
Talk to a Tech Expert
If you’re still unsure which mobile device best suits your needs, don’t hesitate to contact Energy Electronics for a consultation. We’re a certified reseller of Sonim, Kyocera, CAT, and LG devices in the U.S. At Energy Electronics, we take an individual approach to every client and strive to offer the best prices on bulk orders. Get in touch today and receive a quote to improve your or your employees’ workflow.
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