43 Best Truck Driver Tools for 2022

As a truck driver, some of your top priorities include keeping your truck rolling, ensuring you and your cargo are safe, and finding loads to avoid deadhead miles. To do these things, you need to have the right tool kit at a moment’s notice.

Here are 43 must-have truck driver tools for 2022 and beyond.

1. Load board software

Most importantly, you need to be able to find quality, high-paying loads to transport. Using the Truckstop Load Board, you can find the best loads at the best rates from verified brokers. If you’re an owner-operator or a company driver required to find your own loads, it will quickly become one of your favorite trucker tools.

2. A small toolbox

Space is always at a premium in a tractor. Store tiny, essential tools like screwdrivers and vice grips in a small toolbox and save the bulky stuff for the trailer. You can even purchase a sturdy tool kit that includes both the box and an assortment of tools. If you already have tools, try a fishing tackle box. Most can hold the basics you need and can fit into tighter spots.

3. A good pair of work gloves

You’ll always want a good pair of work gloves for handling chains or loading and unloading freight. Choose gloves that are both protective and durable for various work environments. Keep a few different kinds on hand for seasonal temperature changes.

4. Multiple ratchet or winch straps

Stock up on multiple ratchet or winch straps of different lengths and strengths to secure pallets or keep them together. Truck drivers often store a box or bucket filled with these straps. Roll them carefully and store them properly to ensure they don’t get tangled, damaged, or lost. If you do lose one, replace it right away. You never know when you’ll need every strap available to secure an odd-shaped load or multiple pallets.

5. Crescent wrenches

Keep a few different sizes in your tool kit. Crescent wrenches come in handy for things like odd-shaped bolts or nuts and simple, quick adjustments.

6. Combination wrenches

Make sure you have a basic set of combination wrenches. In addition to the standard sizes, invest in metric bolts and nuts. They’re used in a lot of modern equipment. A set of each will come in handy regularly.

7. Emergency space blanket

Even if you carry freight for Space X, you won’t be stranded in the frigid reaches of the Milky Way. However, you might break down in an ice storm or get stuck in a blizzard. Space blankets reflect your body heat back to you and are more effective than other blankets in extreme situations. These lifesaving tools are a must-have in the trucking industry.

8. Corner protectors

When strapping something down, you need corner protectors. These rubber or plastic tools protect your cargo from tie-downs and vice versa. Your tie-downs will last longer, too.

9. Vise grips

Vise grips are incredibly useful for getting a tight grip on almost anything, but they also have other uses. You can hold something in place, pull the release arm with tandem trailers, and more. Keep at least two different sizes on board.

10. Wire cutters

Having a few different wire cutter sizes is also a good idea. Use them to untangle packing wire and other messy hazards. You can also use them with electrical tape or connectors to splice a bad wire long enough to get to the repair shop.

11. Electrical tape

Electrical tape is one of the most versatile trucker tools on the road. Not only can it keep those emergency splices together, but it can also bind bundles of wire and other items together. Always have a roll or two with you.

12. Electrical wire

You might need electrical wire to make temporary repairs to a wiring harness, whether for a light fixture or your radio or CB. Make sure to get a variety of colors to help identify one wire from another.

13. Light test kit

It’s not worth the ticket to risk having a light out. Carry a simple light-test kit to determine which lights are good and which ones have failed. Replace dead lights right away so you don’t get pulled over.

14. Sledgehammer

Not only are sledgehammers great for unsticking stuck fifth wheels or other fasteners, but they’re also good for quick tire-pressure checks. Just strike each tire and listen for the same “tone” as a full tire. The longer you’re on the road, the easier it will get to identify. Check trailer tires quickly at each fuel stop.

15. Pressure gauge

When a tire “sounds” different, you need to verify the pressure level with a pressure gauge. Keep in mind that you should only check the tire pressure with a gauge once daily, ideally in the morning. Each time you use a gauge, you release a little pressure, which can cause problems down the road.

16. Flashlight(s)

Being able to see well around your truck at night can be a lifesaver. You need a large, bright light, plus backups if the batteries die or one flashlight goes missing. Even better, you can add an LED headlamp you can wear on your head to free up your hands.

17. Jumper cables

A dead battery can create huge delays. Truck drivers should always carry jumper cables. Make sure they’re good quality, heavy-duty cables that will work for your particular truck. Cheap cables often don’t hold up when you need them the most.

18. Tire depth gauge

Tire depth gauges are crucial for ensuring your tires are in good shape on your tractor and the trailers you haul. If you’re picking up a trailer, don’t take someone else’s word for it. Always check tire depth and pressure (at least with the hammer method) before starting your run.

19. Aluminum walk ramps

If you pull up to a location without a loading dock or arrive at a destination and your liftgate malfunctions, you’ll need an easy way to get freight out of your truck. Aluminum walk ramps are the answer. They’re lightweight, easy to store and carry, and can save you a lot of grief.

20. Dog bone wrench

You want one of these on hand for getting into awkward spaces. Get one with a magnet, which can be very helpful if you can’t quite reach a dropped bolt or nut.

21. Multi-head screwdriver

A multi-head screwdriver helps you deal with pretty much any screw, any time. They often come with bits already stored in the handle. Some are magnetic. Keep track of these bits or tips, and be sure to replace any that are lost or become damaged.

22. Metal dowel rod

You’ll want this tool to help free frozen brakes when driving in the winter months. Be cautious, though, as they can damage your brakes if misused. Learn how to use a metal dowel rod correctly before you need it.

23. Safety glasses

Working with tools always brings the risk that flying debris, chemicals, or other objects can enter your eyes, causing anything from discomfort to permanent damage. Always have safety glasses with you and wear them when you’re working.

24. Heavy-duty box knife

From cutting pallet ties to boxes and cardboard, a heavy-duty utility knife is key. Keep refilling blades, too, because sharp edges are the safest.

25. Socket set

Sometimes you need a socket rather than a wrench. Keep a simple socket set with metric and standard sockets, a ratchet handle, and at least a small extension handy.

26. Bungee cords

Like ratchet straps, you never know when a bungee cord will save the day. Keep a variety of sizes, ideally color-coded, in your truck at all times. Some come with metal hooks on black rubber, but include some with plastic or rubber-coated hooks, as they won’t damage cargo or other items you might hook them to.

27. Zip ties

Nothing beats a good zip tie for many tasks, from bundling electrical wires to holding cords or other items out of the way. Store a variety of these in different lengths and thicknesses. You can typically find variety packs at truck stops or hardware stores.

28. Heat shrink tubing

Heat shrink tubing is another good hack for emergency electrical repairs. Use it to cover two spliced wires and keep them safe from the elements. It’s smart to carry multiple sizes. The color of the tubing usually indicates the size or gauge.

29. Lighter

You might need to melt heat-shrink tubing to make emergency electrical repairs. Keep a lighter (and extra fluid) around for a fast flame. Disposable, stick-style lighters are cheap and easy to find. You can also invest in a good Zippo that will last a lifetime.

30. Oil

Carry at least one jug of oil with you. If your tractor springs a serious leak, you will need to repair it as quickly as possible. Having an extra gallon of oil can tide you over until you get to a repair station. It can help keep you from being stranded and your engine from seizing. You can also use it to top off between oil changes.

31. Coolant

Coolant is as vital to your engine as oil. Bringing an extra jug with you to top off your fluids or even to keep you going when doing an emergency hose repair is critical. Always have an extra gallon with you, and remember to replace it as you use it.

32. Silicone

A quick sealant job can get you to the next repair shop or even protect your cargo from small leaks. Always have a tube of general-purpose silicone with you to make minor or temporary fixes on the fly.

33. Rags

The road can be a messy place. Have rags and a roll of disposable shop towels ready to quickly clean up spills or grease.

34. WD-40

As a universal lubricant, WD-40 works well for various projects, from getting gears moving again to quieting squeaky doors and fixtures. It’s surprisingly useful for cleaning things, too. You can use it to erase stubborn glue marks from metal surfaces or remove wax from seals that have melted into a wooden floor.

35. Spare fuses

A blown fuse can leave you stranded, but it’s easily avoidable by carrying spare fuses for quick replacement. There are two things to remember, though. First, confirm the type of fuses your tractor uses so you have the correct spares. Second, if a fuse keeps blowing, that may indicate a more serious issue you’ll want to fix as soon as possible.

36. Spare fuel filters

Fuel filters clog up or get contaminated with bad fuel over time. Replacing one on the go keeps you rolling and your fuel mileage high by removing blockages and contaminants from the fuel line.

37. Fuel filter wrench

To replace fuel filters, you need the correct wrench. There are adjustable options, but they usually have a narrow range. Check that you have the proper wrench before you hit the road.

38. Extra belts and hoses

If possible, carry extra belts and hoses so you can quickly replace them on the road. If you can’t carry the exact replacement hoses, store universal hose replacements in varying sizes so you can make emergency fixes.

39. Ice scrapers and snow brushes

You’ll definitely need these if you drive in cold or snowy areas. Keep your hood, steps, and other areas clear with a snow brush — preferably a long one. Use the scraper to remove ice and frost much faster than your tractor’s defroster can.

40. Hammer

Besides your small sledgehammer for checking tire pressures and other small jobs, carry a larger hammer when you need some extra “oomph” or to get something unstuck.

41. First aid kit

It’s essential to pack a basic first-aid kit, just in case. Include antibiotic cream, bandages, Band-Aids, pain killers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen, and other everyday first aid needs. Always keep it stocked. You can pick most of these up at gas stations, grocery stores, or pharmacies and refill them as you use them.

42. Lumbar support cushion

Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, and even the most comfortable seat can put pressure on your lower back and legs. Invest in a good lumbar support cushion to reduce the chances of pain and injury. You can find cushions online at various price points but check customer reviews.

43. Emergency rations

Some truckers like to eat most of their meals in the truck, while others prefer truck stops and diners. If you find yourself stranded due to a breakdown, a weather delay, or even a backup at a loading dock, you’ll be glad to have some emergency food on board. Keep a small box near the driver’s seat filled with non-perishable items such as tuna packets, crackers, and some bottled water. That way, you won’t need to dig through everything when you need a snack.

Invest in the right toolset.

As a truck driver, you want to invest in the right toolset for efficiency and safety. Being prepared means you, your cargo, and your truck will be safer, and you can keep moving down the road. Remember that to put that toolset to good use, you need to have a source for high-paying loads. Find them and a ton of other money-making resources on the Truckstop Load Board. 

Check it out and get started today. The right tools make all the difference.