Truck parking shortage has always been a priority issue for truckers. But it’s not just about the lack of parking spots. It’s also about the challenges of finding those that are available as quickly as possible.
When it comes to that, more and more truck parking lots are leveraging new technologies. A good example is our very own Truck Parking Club app, which connects truck parking owners with truckers, allowing drivers to quickly find and book listed parking spots.
The good news is that we’re not the only ones trying to resolve this issue. Some states, such as Michigan or Wisconsin, have also introduced an interesting solution for truckers looking for available parking spots – the Truck Parking Information Management System (TPIMS).
What Is the Truck Parking Information Management System?
The Truck Parking Information Management System uses sensors and cameras installed at truck stops, rest areas, and truck parking lots to create real-time data about truck parking availability.
This information is displayed using tools like dynamic road signs and navigation apps, providing commercial truck drivers with relevant information regarding truck parking. This way, they can better plan their route on the go without wasting their time looking for available spots.
How does this system work? Simple:
- The TPIMS uses sensors and cameras strategically installed at a truck parking lot, rest area, or truck stop to monitor real-time traffic;
- The information about parking availability is displayed on electronic message boards located along the highways and heavy–traffic roads, giving commercial truckers a quick insight into the parking situation ahead.
The Benefits of TPIMS
The primary goal behind the Truck Parking Information Management System is to improve safety and efficiency for commercial truckers. The system allows truck drivers to quickly get an idea regarding available parking spots, sparing them the need to drive around searching for free spots.
However, while the system was made with primarily truckers and their safety in mind, it can also benefit one’s truck parking business. Integrating the TPIMS in your truck parking lot will help you reach more truckers, especially those who still heavily rely on the information displayed on road signs.
Where Is TPIMS Used?
Although the Truck Parking Information Management System has been live for some time now, so far, it’s been only introduced by eight US states – Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Minnesota, Ohio, and Iowa.
Whether more states decide to join this federally funded program remains to be seen, but its benefits are clear. Of course, this system won’t resolve the truck parking shortage problem, but it’s a step in the right direction when it comes to improving road safety.
Truck Parking Information Management System vs. Truck Parking Club
TPIMS is an excellent system for truckers and truck parking lots.
Drivers can benefit from a better overview regarding the truck parking situation ahead, while parking lots can reach more truckers who might be willing to spend the night at their premises.
However, learning whether there are free parking spots available doesn’t mean they won’t be taken once the driver arrives at the parking lot. Here’s where Truck Parking Club comes in handy.
Using our app, truckers can quickly find nearby available parking spots and book them immediately. This way, they won’t waste time driving to the location only to find out the supposedly ‘available spots’ are already taken.
Not only that, Truck Parking Club also provides truckers with all the necessary information about the location, giving them an overview of on-site amenities, parking costs, and even feedback from other truckers.
Wrapping Up
The implementation of the Truck Parking Information Management System across the US is definitely a good sign. It shows that state governments are finally becoming aware of the truck parking issue and are ready to invest in technology aiming to provide a solution.
The problem is that this system isn’t enough. The availability at truck parking lots and truck stops fluctuates massively throughout the day. This means that the sign that shows there are 20 spaces available in a specific location might no longer be relevant 10 minutes from a truck driver passing it.
This is where Truck Parking Club shines. Our app not only provides truckers with real-time information about parking availability but also allows them to book these spots, ensuring there’s a parking spot waiting for them once they arrive at the location.
Create your free trucker member account today and ensure you always have a place to park your truck, no matter where the road takes you!
The information published herein is for general informational purposes only. Truck Parking Club does not make any representations or warranties about the completeness, reliability, legality, and accuracy of this information. Any reliance placed on such material is strictly at the user’s own risk. Truck Parking Club shall not be responsible for any losses or damages incurred in connection with the information published herein.
