Tablets for Truck Drivers: Essential Tech for the Road

In the fast-paced trucking world, having a reliable tablet is more than a luxury—it’s an essential tool for the road.

Whether navigating long stretches of highway, staying in touch with dispatch, or unwinding during a break, a tablet can make your journey much smoother.

But it's not just about the device itself—having the right tablet mount to keep your tablet secure and within reach makes all the difference in ensuring both safety and convenience on the road.

In this blog, you will learn:

• Why a reliable tablet and mount are essential for truckers on the road
• The advantages of using ARKON Mounts tablet holders for keeping your tablet secure
• How having the correct tech setup can make your journey smoother and safer

ARKON Mounts is a top choice for truckers who want a professional-grade tablet holder that offers stability, durability, and functionality. Our mounts, explicitly designed for truck drivers, keep your device steady so you can stay focused on the road while accessing everything you need at a glance.

And with a limited lifetime warranty on most products, you know you're covered for the long haul.

• Essential Features for Truckers' Tablets
• Top Tablet Choices for Truck Drivers
• Connectivity Options
• Mounting and Accessibility
• Software and Applications
• Customization and Settings
• Safety and Compliance
• Tablet Maintenance and Support
• Training and Resources

Essential Features for Truckers' Tablets

When choosing a tablet for your trucking needs, not just any device will do.

Truckers need specific features to make their work on the road easier, safer, and more efficient. Whether navigating unfamiliar routes or managing your hours of service, the right tablet can make all the difference.

So, what should you be looking for in a tablet as a trucker?

GPS Navigation and Traffic Updates

A reliable GPS system is vital for truck drivers. It helps you navigate complex routes and avoid heavy traffic. Look for tablets that provide real-time traffic updates and route optimization. These features save time and fuel, ensuring you're always on the best path.

Choosing a tablet with built-in mapping software designed for large vehicles is crucial. This software will help you avoid low bridges and restricted roads.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Compliance

ELD compliance is mandatory for modern truckers. Tablets supporting ELD features track your driving hours, ensuring you adhere to legal requirements. They simplify record-keeping and reduce manual paperwork.

ELD-compatible tablets can integrate smoothly with your truck's system and provide instant access to logs. This integration ensures that your records are accurate and readily available during inspections.

Long Battery Life and Power Management

A tablet with a long battery life is indispensable when you're on long hauls. It reduces the need for constant recharging and ensures your device is ready whenever needed.

Look for tablets with efficient power management features that adjust screen brightness and app usage to extend battery life. An easily accessible charging dock or mount in your truck is beneficial for keeping your device powered. 

Durability and Ruggedness

Truck driving conditions can be challenging, so a tablet must be rugged and durable. Choosing a device built to withstand vibrations, temperature changes, and accidental drops is essential.

Devices with reinforced exteriors and water-resistant features add extra protection. These characteristics ensure that your tablet functions correctly and lasts longer despite the rough road conditions it might encounter.

Touchscreen Interface Optimized for Truck Drivers

An easy-to-use touchscreen interface is essential for efficiency. Tablets designed with truck drivers in mind offer larger buttons and customizable settings to facilitate use while on the road.

A responsive touchscreen with anti-glare technology improves visibility regardless of lighting conditions. These interface features make accessing navigation, logging, and communication tools straightforward and safe during your journey.

Top Tablet Choices for Truck Drivers

Choosing the right tablet for your job as a truck driver isn’t just about picking the first device you see on the shelf—it’s about selecting a tablet that will meet the demands of the road. With so many options out there, how do you know which one is the best fit for your needs?

Leading Brands and Models

ARKON Mounts stands out as a reliable tablet mount. Known for its high-quality, professional-grade mounts, the brand provides secure solutions for mounting your tablet.

The ARKON Mounts TAB-FSM is a popular choice due to its ease of installation and compatibility with tablets having screens between 9" and 12". This mount is designed to make navigating and using your device effortless while you're on the road.

Price and Value Comparisons

Investing in a good tablet mount is essential for maximizing the use of your tablet.

We offer various products at competitive prices, backed by a 2-year limited warranty. This provides peace of mind and value for your money. Some items even include a lifetime warranty, showcasing the company's commitment to quality and durability.

Considering the long-term reliability and robust build, the price is justified.

User Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about ARKON Mounts products highlights their durability and user-friendliness. Drivers appreciate the firm grip and flexibility, making them ideal for the demanding conditions on the road.

User reviews often mention how easy these mounts are to adjust, ensuring your device is at the perfect angle. Many truck drivers rely on the sturdy design and simple installation and consistently rate these products highly.

Connectivity Options

Staying connected is more important than ever when you're on the road. Whether getting real-time traffic updates, staying in touch with dispatch, or simply listening to music during a break, having reliable connectivity can make your job much easier and more enjoyable.

But what must you consider when choosing a tablet that always keeps you connected?

Wi-Fi and Cellular Data Plans

Staying connected while on the road is crucial for receiving updates on traffic, weather, and route changes. Many tablets have Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to connect at truck stops and rest areas with free or paid services.

Cellular data plans offer an alternative to Wi-Fi when Wi-Fi isn't available. Depending on your needs, you can choose from various data plans. Consider plans with unlimited data for frequent use or pay-as-you-go options for occasional use.

Strong network coverage is essential, especially in rural areas where Wi-Fi may be scarce.

Bluetooth Accessories Compatibility

Bluetooth compatibility in tablets allows you to connect with accessories that enhance your driving experience. Pairing your tablet with a Bluetooth headset can enable hands-free calls and voice commands, improving safety on the road.

Many tablets also support Bluetooth keyboards, making input easier when parked. Connecting with Bluetooth speakers can also offer improved audio for navigation instructions and entertainment.

When choosing a tablet, ensure it supports the latest Bluetooth version for better connectivity and compatibility with new devices. This feature also allows for simple file transfers between devices, adding a layer of convenience to your travels.

Mounting and Accessibility

When you’re on the road, easy access to your tablet is essential—not just for convenience but also for safety. Have you ever found yourself fumbling for your device while driving, only to realize that reaching for it is more distracting than it should be?

The key to staying focused and safe is having your tablet securely mounted and easily accessible. But how do you know the right way to set it up?

Secure Mounting Systems

Secure mounting is crucial for using tablets safely in a truck. The mount must hold the tablet firmly, even on rough roads.

ARKON Mounts offers solutions designed for stability, ensuring the device doesn't shift or become loose during the journey. Their mounts are engineered to fit various surfaces, accommodating dashboards, windshields, and seat rails with robust design and easy installation.

Having a secure semi truck mount minimizes distractions and maintains compliance with safety regulations. Choosing a mount with a reliable grip and adjustable angles ensures comfort and accessibility for diverse navigation needs while on the road.

Our Top Recommendations

Heavy-Duty Car or Truck Seat Rail Tablet Mount with 22" Arm

The Heavy-Duty Car and Truck Seat Rail Tablet Mount is a ridged and durable mount engineered for those who prefer mounting your tablet somewhere other than the windshield or dash.

Designed to be installed on your vehicle's seat frame, its unique design keeps your dash device-free or can be mounted in the back for entertainment for your passengers on long-haul trips.

Slim-Grip® Ultra Holder with Suction Mount

Meet the Slim-Grip® Ultra Holder with Windshield Suction Mount, designed to integrate into longer-style car or truck dashes.

With its adjustable arm, this holder offers enhanced flexibility, spanning from windshield to console, ensuring the ideal device positioning.

Heavy-Duty Car Seat Rail Tablet Mount with Keyboard Tray Combo

Keep your tablet close at hand while in your car or truck with ARKON Mounts Heavy-Duty Tablet and Keyboard Tray Combo Mount for Cars and Trucks.

This unique combination includes ARKON Mounts Universal Push-Button Tablet Holder, Bluetooth keyboard tray, and heavy-duty seat rail for cars and trucks with a 22" Adjustable Arm.

LockVise™ Metal Locking Tablet Mount with Drill Base Mount

This sturdy aluminium locking tablet mount is ideal for a portable electronic logging device (ELD) to comply with the ELD E-Log mandate for commercial vehicles. It's also great for any environment where keeping your tablet secure is essential. Whether mounting a tablet on your dash for GPS or onto a store countertop for an EPOS system.

Arriving with a 4-Hole AMPS mount base, this sturdy tablet mount can be screwed or drilled into any flat surface (screws not included) and features a key lock that keeps the tablet securely in place.

LockVise™ Locking Tablet Mount with Multi-Angle Arm

Featuring an 8" multi-angle arm and a 4-hole AMPS pattern drill base, the Locking Tablet Mount with Multi-Angle Arm, this holder is the perfect companion for use with forklift tablet management, EPOS devices on countertops, secondary devices for social media content creation, GPS or tablets on office desks.

It is also suitable for semi truck dashes, workshops, recording studios, or workspaces requiring easy tablet access. Additionally, it provides a secure option for wall mounting your device.

Ease of Access While Driving

Ease of access to the tablet while driving enhances convenience without compromising safety. Proper positioning is essential, allowing you to see and interact with the display effortlessly.

Positioning the mount in the right spot helps facilitate quick, hands-free interactions, which are crucial for GPS navigation and communication. Quick access reduces the need to take your eyes off the road. 

Look for adjustable mounts that facilitate quick changes in angle or orientation, making it more straightforward to adapt to tasks like route guidance or media controls.

Software and Applications

In today’s world, having the right tablet software and applications can enhance your driving experience. Whether you're planning routes, staying connected with your team, or managing work tasks, the right apps can make all the difference.

But with so many options, how do you know which ones are useful for truck drivers?

Route Planning and Optimization Apps

Effective route planning is crucial for truckers, saving time and fuel. Popular apps offer truck-specific navigation that helps you find truck stops, weigh stations, and parking spots.

Some apps even provide real-time traffic updates and suggest alternate routes, informing you about road closures or accidents. With these tools, you can ensure a smoother journey, avoid unexpected delays, and maximize your work hours by choosing the best trip paths.

Freight Matching and Load Boards

Freight matching apps connect drivers with available loads, streamlining the process of finding work. Load boards are often used to browse and bid on available cargo, ensuring you stay busy and profitable.

Using these apps, you can quickly see details about load sizes, pick-up and delivery locations, and rates. This makes planning your trips easier and securing the best jobs possible, enhancing your capacity to increase earnings and reduce empty miles.

Communication and Messaging Tools

Staying connected is essential for truckers. Messaging tools help you keep in touch with dispatchers, other drivers, and clients efficiently.

These apps offer features like real-time chat, image and document sharing, and even group messaging. Reliable communication helps ensure smooth operations by allowing instant updates on delivery status or navigating sudden schedule changes.

This way, you remain informed and can quickly address any issues arising during your travels.

Customization and Settings

When it comes to using your tablet on the road, personalization is key.

Like customizing your truck for comfort and efficiency, your tablet’s settings can make a huge difference in your daily tasks. How much time do you spend searching for the apps or tools you need while driving?

User Profiles and Interface Customization

You can set up individual user profiles to personalize your tablet experience. This allows multiple drivers to use the same device with different settings.

Each profile can have unique apps, layouts, and shortcuts tailored to specific needs.

Adjust the interface by selecting themes and arranging app icons for easy access. Some tablets let you use gestures, offering quick navigation between different screens. Customize the home screen and widgets to see important information like traffic updates or weather conditions quickly.

Multimedia and Entertainment Options

Your tablet can be a hub for entertainment during breaks or downtime. You can download music apps or streaming services to listen to your favorite songs or podcasts on the road.

Some tablets support offline playback, meaning you can enjoy content without an internet connection.

Video content and audiobooks are great options for unwinding after long driving hours. Ensure your tablet supports various multimedia formats for wider compatibility. Use a reliable mount such as the Slim-Grip® Tablet Holder with Metal Drill Base Mount, to position your tablet securely, reducing distractions while enjoying entertainment. 

Make multimedia adjustments through sound settings for optimal listening experiences.

Safety and Compliance

When it comes to trucking, safety is always the top priority. The right technology can keep you safe and help you stay compliant with the regulations that govern your industry.

Tablets can be an essential tool for enhancing both your safety and your compliance on the road.

Hands-Free Operation Features

Hands-free operation is crucial for truck drivers to focus on the road while accessing necessary information. Tablets equipped with voice commands and recognition allow you to interact with your device without taking your hands off the wheel. This feature lets you make calls, send messages, and manage navigation safely.

ARKON Mounts offers reliable solutions to keep your device secure. You can position your tablet for optimal visibility with windshield, dash, or floor mounting options. Hands-free features with a stable, professional-grade mount contribute to a safer driving environment.

Emergency Services and Roadside Assistance

Truck drivers need access to emergency services and roadside assistance. Tablets can be equipped with apps that provide real-time updates and alerts about road and weather conditions.

These tools help you make informed decisions when facing unexpected situations.

Many apps are designed for quick access to emergency contacts and service centers. They often include GPS tracking so assistance can easily find you.

Tablet Maintenance and Support

As a trucker, you rely on your tablet to stay organized, connected, and compliant, but have you thought about how to keep your device in top shape for the long haul?

Just like your truck needs regular maintenance to perform well, your tablet does too.

Keeping your tablet well-maintained ensures that it lasts longer, performs better, and continues to serve you on the road.

Warranty and Repair Services

When you invest in a tablet mount from ARKON Mounts, you'll benefit from a reliable warranty. Many products have a 2-year limited warranty, offering protection against manufacturing defects. For some items, a lifetime warranty is available.

Warranty services typically include repair or replacement within the covered period, giving you peace of mind. To take full advantage of these benefits, register your product soon after purchase. Keep your purchase receipt and any product registration details handy when seeking support.

Software Updates and Technical Support

Keeping your tablet's software updated is critical for smooth operation and security.

Regular updates can improve performance, patch vulnerabilities, and add new features. Enable automatic updates to ensure you are always running the latest software version when possible.

Technical support can assist with troubleshooting any issues you might encounter.

Contacting support through the provided channels can help resolve problems efficiently. Understanding these procedures ensures your tablet remains functional and reliable during your travels.

Training and Resources

You’ve got the device, set up your tablet, and are ready to hit the road—but how do you make the most of it?

Training and resources can help you fully leverage your tablet’s capabilities, making it a true asset to your driving routine. Whether you’re new to using tablets or looking to optimize your current setup, plenty of tools can guide you.

Online Tutorials and User Guides

Online tutorials are invaluable for learning how to set up and use tablet mounts effectively.

Many websites offer step-by-step user guides explaining how to install and adjust mounts for optimal truck use. These guides often include videos that demonstrate various features and adjustments.

You can learn about advanced functionalities like integrating navigation apps, multimedia capabilities, and other helpful tablet features. Using these resources, truckers can quickly become adept at managing their devices to enhance efficiency and safety on the road.

Community Forums and Support Groups

Community forums are perfect for truckers looking to connect with peers who use similar equipment. These platforms provide a space to ask questions, share tips, and exchange experiences related to tablet use in trucking.

Engaging with support groups helps you discover real-world solutions to common challenges. These forums usually have sections dedicated to troubleshooting and reviews, offering insights into the reliability of various mounts and holders.

Participating in these communities will inform you about the latest trends and updates in tablet accessories for truck drivers.