An ongoing challenge truck drivers face is finding safe and accessible parking. The demand for truck parking far exceeds the available spots, leaving many drivers exhausted as they search for a place to take their mandatory break. Truck stops and rest areas fill up quickly, especially in high-traffic areas.

Many truckers prioritize well-lit and secure parking lots but finding these locations can be difficult. When no legal spaces are available, drivers may resort to unsafe alternatives such as parking on highway shoulders, offramps, side streets, fire lanes, and unmarked spots. These locations pose safety risks and could lead to fines and citations.

Free spots fill up quickly. Paid parking is becoming more common, yet many drivers prefer free parking to save money. It’s often hard for oversized or heavy haul loads to find a parking spot due to space limitations at many travel centers and rest stops. It’s common for a lot of heavy haul truckers to park at a shipper. It’s always important to get permission first before parking at a shipper.

Stopping earlier in the day, before the truck stops fill up, often before 5pm, can also increase the likelihood of finding an open space.

Planning your stops ahead can help secure a safe spot to park. Apps like Trucker Path and Trucker Tools allow drivers to check availability and even reserve paid spots in advance. Paid parking options, such as the Truck Parking Club, offer hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly parking at over 1,400 locations across the U.S. The services have become a popular resource for drivers seeking peace of mind and a guaranteed spot to park.

Wherever you park, prioritize safety. Look for well-lit areas with security and avoid spots that seem unsafe. Many drivers keep a list of travel centers and rest areas they prefer to frequent, as well as those they avoid. Sharing your list with other drivers can help everyone stay safe and find better options.

Plan ahead and park safely! Connect with other truck drivers in the RoadPro Driver’s Lounge on Facebook to share your parking tips or comment on this blog.