Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is not just a driving game—it’s a detailed logistics simulator that lets you explore Europe, manage a fleet, and grow a trucking business from the ground up. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned driver, this guide offers practical tips and strategic insights to help you succeed. From your first delivery to managing a fleet of drivers, we’ll walk through each stage of your journey with advice tailored to your progress.
1. Getting Started: Profile Setup and First Steps
Before you hit the road, you’ll need to create a profile. Choose a name, company logo, and preferred truck design. Your headquarters location matters—select a central city like Berlin, Paris, or Prague to access a wide range of jobs early on.
In the beginning, you’ll drive trucks provided by logistics companies. These jobs are low-risk and help you earn money without worrying about fuel or maintenance. Focus on short hauls to build experience and avoid fatigue penalties.
Beginner Tips:
- Choose a city with high job density
- Use company trucks until you can afford your own
- Rely on GPS and Route Advisor for navigation
2. Earning Your First Truck: Smart Money Management
Once you’ve built up some capital, it’s time to buy your first truck. This unlocks trailer ownership and custom jobs. Popular starter trucks include the Volvo FH and Scania R series for their reliability and fuel efficiency.
Consider engine power, cabin size, and fuel tank capacity. Don’t overspend—your first truck should be practical, not flashy. You’ll have plenty of time to upgrade later.
Truck Buying Checklist:
- Compare engine specs and torque
- Choose sleeper cabs for long-distance jobs
- Prioritize fuel economy for profitability
3. Skill Point Allocation: Leveling Up Strategically
As you level up, you’ll earn skill points that unlock new job types and bonuses. These include ADR (hazardous materials), Long Distance, High Value Cargo, Fragile Cargo, Just-In-Time Delivery, and Eco Driving.
Start by investing in Long Distance and High Value Cargo to unlock better-paying jobs. ADR unlocks specialized deliveries with higher XP rewards and often overlaps with other skill categories.
Recommended Skill Progression:
- Long Distance
- High Value Cargo
- ADR
- Fragile Cargo
- Just-In-Time Delivery
4. Route Planning and Navigation Strategy
Efficient route planning is essential for maximizing profits and avoiding delays. Use the in-game GPS and map to plot your journey, factoring in fuel stops and rest breaks. Avoid congested areas and plan for weather conditions.
The Route Advisor helps track delivery time, fatigue, and fuel levels. Use it to make informed decisions on the road and avoid penalties for late deliveries or violations.
Navigation Tips:
- Plan routes with minimal tolls
- Avoid night driving if visibility is poor
- Use rest areas strategically
5. Fuel, Repairs, and Maintenance
Managing your truck’s condition is key to long-term success. Fuel costs, repair bills, and wear-and-tear can eat into your profits if not handled properly. Refuel before long hauls and avoid running low.
Visit service stations regularly to repair damage and upgrade parts. Maintenance improves performance and reduces breakdowns, especially on long-distance jobs.
Maintenance Checklist:
- Refuel every 600–800 km
- Repair after accidents or heavy wear
- Upgrade engine and transmission for efficiency
6. Parking and Maneuvering: Precision Driving
Parking trailers and maneuvering in tight spaces are essential skills. These tasks can be challenging but are crucial for completing jobs and earning bonuses. Practice backing up at truck stops and delivery points.
Use mirrors and camera angles to guide your movements. Turn off parking assist to improve your skills manually and gain more XP for manual parking.
Parking Tips:
- Use wide turns to avoid curbs
- Align trailer with delivery zone
- Practice in low-pressure environments
7. Expanding Your Business: Garages and Drivers
Once you’ve built a stable income, invest in garages to expand your operations. Start with small garages and upgrade them to house more trucks and drivers. Choose cities with high job traffic for maximum efficiency.
Hire AI drivers from recruitment agencies. Assign them trucks and monitor their performance. Drivers level up over time, increasing your passive income and allowing you to focus on high-value jobs.
Business Strategy:
- Upgrade garages in high-traffic cities
- Hire drivers with balanced skills
- Track driver efficiency via company manager
8. Using Mods and Customization
Mods enhance gameplay with new trucks, maps, weather systems, and UI improvements. Use Steam Workshop or trusted mod sites to find compatible content. Always check version compatibility before installing.
Customize your truck with paint jobs, accessories, and performance upgrades. Visit service stations or use the garage menu to modify your vehicle. Personalization adds immersion and pride to your fleet.
Popular Mod Types:
- Truck models and interiors
- Realistic weather and lighting
- Map expansions and traffic tweaks
9. Multiplayer and Convoy Mode
ETS2’s Convoy mode allows you to drive with friends in real-time. It adds a social layer to the game and lets you coordinate deliveries, explore together, or roleplay as a logistics company.
Make sure your mods are synchronized and compatible with others in the convoy. Use voice chat or external tools like Discord for communication and coordination.
Multiplayer Tips:
- Sync mods before joining a convoy
- Use voice chat for coordination
- Respect traffic rules and convoy etiquette
10. Advanced Tools and Console Commands
ETS2 offers advanced tools like console commands for testing mods, teleporting, and adjusting game settings. These are useful for troubleshooting or customizing your experience.
To enable the developer console, edit the config file in your Documents folder. Use commands like goto [city] to teleport or g_set_time [hour] to change time.
Useful Console Commands:
- goto [city]: Teleport to location
- g_set_time [hour]: Change time
- g_flyspeed [value]: Adjust camera speed
Conclusion
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a rich and rewarding simulation that blends driving mechanics with business strategy. By following these tips—from setting up your profile to managing a fleet—you’ll build a successful trucking career and enjoy every mile of the journey. Whether you're a casual player or a dedicated hauler, mastering ETS2 requires patience, planning, and a passion for the open road
