Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is more than just a driving game—it’s a full-fledged logistics simulator that lets you build a trucking empire across Europe. With its realistic driving mechanics, dynamic economy, and vast modding potential, ETS2 offers a deep and rewarding experience. But for new players and even seasoned drivers, mastering the game requires more than just steering skills. This guide walks you through every major phase of the game, from your first delivery to managing a fleet of drivers and trucks, with practical tips and strategies to help you succeed.
1. Starting Out: Creating Your Profile and Choosing a Headquarters
Your journey begins with setting up your profile. You’ll choose a name, company logo, preferred truck design, and a starting city for your headquarters.
Pick a central location with access to major roads and cities—places like Berlin, Prague, or Paris offer better job variety early on. Don’t worry too much about your first truck; you’ll be driving company vehicles until you can afford your own.
Setup Tips
- Choose a city with high job density
- Customize your avatar and company branding
- Skip buying a truck until you’ve earned enough
2. First Jobs: Driving for Hire and Building Capital
In the beginning, you’ll work as a hired driver using trucks provided by logistics companies. These jobs are low-risk and help you earn money without maintenance costs.
Focus on short hauls to build experience and avoid fatigue penalties. Deliver on time, avoid damage, and follow traffic laws to maximize your earnings and reputation.
Beginner Tips
- Use GPS and Route Advisor for navigation
- Rest at designated stops to avoid fines
- Avoid speeding and collisions to protect income
3. Buying Your First Truck: What to Consider
Once you’ve saved enough, it’s time to buy your first truck. This is a major milestone and opens up new gameplay options, including trailer ownership and custom jobs.
Popular starter trucks include the Volvo FH and Scania R series—both offer reliability and fuel efficiency. Consider engine power, cabin size, and fuel tank capacity when choosing.
Truck Buying Checklist
- Compare engine specs and torque
- Choose sleeper cabs for long-distance jobs
- Consider fuel economy for profitability
4. Skill Point Allocation: Building Your Driver Profile
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.
Skill Categories
- Long Distance: Boosts job range and income
- ADR: Unlocks hazardous cargo types
- Just-In-Time: Adds urgency and bonus XP
5. 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.
Navigation Tips
- Plan routes with minimal tolls
- Avoid night driving if visibility is poor
- Use rest areas strategically
6. 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.
Maintenance Checklist
- Refuel every 600–800 km
- Repair after accidents or heavy wear
- Upgrade engine and transmission for efficiency
7. Parking and Maneuvering: Mastering the Basics
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.
Parking Tips
- Use wide turns to avoid curbs
- Align trailer with delivery zone
- Practice in low-pressure environments
8. 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.
Hire AI drivers from recruitment agencies. Assign them trucks and monitor their performance. Drivers level up over time, increasing your passive income.
Business Strategy
- Upgrade garages in high-traffic cities
- Hire drivers with balanced skills
- Track driver efficiency via company manager
9. 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
10. Advanced Tools and Multiplayer
ETS2 offers advanced tools like console commands and Convoy multiplayer mode. These allow teleportation, time manipulation, and co-op driving with friends.
Use console commands to test mods or recover from bugs. Multiplayer adds a social layer to the game, but requires mod synchronization and coordination.
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 and guides—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
