When you’re trying to choose the right truck parking lot, there are many different things to consider. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the many things you should look at when trying to choose the right semi-truck parking lot for your vehicle.
1- Consider the Lot’s Safety and Security
Naturally, one of the first things most truckers look at is safety and security. No one wants to park their truck in a lot that may be unsafe. For this reason, it should be one of the priority points.
Some of the things you may wish to look into include the following:
- Is the parking lot well-lit? It’s easier to commit a crime under the cover of darkness.
- Are there any other security measures in place? I.E. a security service, armed response, or CCTV coverage.
2- Consider the Available Amenities
Amenities are one of the next things truckers are likely to look for when considering semi-truck parking lots. It’s always convenient when you can rest for the night and have access to amenities in the same location.
While many truck parking lot services offer little more than parking, you may encounter some of these amenities at certain lots:
- Clean restrooms and showers
- Laundry facilities
- Truck washes
- Restaurants
- Fuel points
3- Consider the Location
Location is the next thing you want to consider when looking at a truck parking lot. A large part of the convenience of a semi-truck parking lot lies in the location.
Here are a few questions you can ask yourself:
- Is it conveniently located in relation to your route?
- Can you easily get to stores or amenities from the location?
- Would you consider the parking lot to be located in a safe area?
Of course, there are many other questions you can ask yourself, but you mainly want the truck parking lot to be located in an area that isn’t too out of the way and where you’ll feel secure.
4- Ask Yourself if You’re Getting Value for Money
Another obvious selection criteria is centered around pricing. There are cheap semi-truck parking lots, and there are more expensive ones. However, neither of these ratings necessarily says much about the quality of the lot.
What you’re looking for isn’t necessarily a specific price range, but rather value for money. If you book in at a cheap parking lot in a seedy location with no amenities or real lighting, that isn’t really value for money. If you book in at a slightly more expensive truck parking lot, but if it’s in a secure location, well-lit, and near a fuel station with amenities, you’re getting better value for money.
5- Consider the Parking Availability
Naturally, you want to use a truck parking lot with enough space. Some of the best lots barely ever have space because they’re so popular. If you can’t get into a semi-truck parking lot, then it isn’t the right fit for you.
While this isn’t exactly what one would consider a convenient criterion, it certainly is an important factor.
6- Read the Ratings and Reviews
The last thing you likely want to review before choosing a semi-truck parking lot is what other people have to say about it. If you have the option, it’s a good idea to read through reviews and ratings left by other truck drivers.
Always bear in mind that it’s easy for someone to leave a scalding review when they’ve had a bad day or a single bad experience and that their experience isn’t always the rule. If there are multiple reviews, try to see what the average opinion is about the truck parking lot.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the right semi-truck parking lot for your vehicle, there are a few main things to consider. Start by considering the location since it may not work out well if the lot is too far out of your way.
Next, find out if the lot has space. There’s no point in driving to a lot that doesn’t have space for your truck.
Then, find out how much the lot charges and what facilities it has to offer. Once you’ve determined whether or not the lot is conveniently located, has space, and offers value for money, you can look at other aspects like safety and reputation.
Of course, phoning hundreds of different semi-truck parking lots can be taxing and take a significant amount of time and effort. It’s much easier to use the Truck Parking Club website or mobile app.
It gives you access to instant information, including details like availability, pricing, and which amenities are on offer (if any). Make your life easier; find your next parking space through Truck Parking Club online or on mobile.
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.
