"ETS 2 Truckers 2": how to become a successful virtual trucker in

Game Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS 2) has long become a cult favorite among trucking simulators, and the modification "Truckers 2" adds realistic Russian routes, unique trucks and local flavor. But to succeed in this game, it’s not enough to just get behind the wheel - you need to understand the economics of transportation, the technical nuances of trucks and even legal aspects (yes, they are also important in the virtual world!). This article will help both new and experienced players optimize their gameplay, avoid common mistakes and get the most out of each flight.

Many players mistakenly believe that ETS 2 the main thing is to quickly get from point A to point B. In fact, success depends on the wise choice of equipment, route planning, financial management and even understanding the “rules of the road” in the game. For example, did you know that overloading a truck by 10% reduces its speed by 5 km/h, and an incorrectly selected transmission can increase fuel consumption by 20%? In this article we will look at all the key aspects - from buying your first truck to creating your own logistics empire.

And yes, if you think that the Truckers 2 modification is just Russia in ETS 2, you are very mistaken. It has its own unique features: from KAMAZ and Uralov to specific transportation rules (for example, weight restrictions on some bridges) and even “corrupt” mechanics at traffic police posts. Are you ready to dive into the world of virtual truck drivers? Then let's go!

How to choose your first truck in Truckers 2: budget vs. perspective

At the start of the game, you have two options: take out a loan for an expensive truck or buy a used workhorse. Experienced players recommend the second option - and here's why. For example, Volvo FH16 2012 with mileage will cost ~150,000 €, while a new one Scania R470 will cost 200,000+ €. The difference in price is not justified at the initial stage: used trucks are almost as reliable as new ones, but allow you to save up for upgrades faster.

When choosing, pay attention to three key parameters:

1. Engine power — for Russia (in modification) it is better to take from 460 hp, otherwise the mountainous areas of the Urals will become torture.
2. Gearbox type — automatic is more convenient, but manual is more economical. In Truckers 2, the difference in fuel consumption can reach 3-5 l/100 km.
3. Load capacity — if you plan to transport heavy loads (for example, metal or equipment), take a chassis with a weight reserve.

Among the budget options, the following stand out:

• 🚛 DAF XF 105 — reliable, cheap to maintain, but rather weak for mountain routes.
• 💰 Mercedes-Benz Actros (2008) — the best price/quality balance, suitable for any cargo.
• 🔧 KAMAZ-5490 (if you play with the Truckers 2 mod) - cheap, but requires frequent repairs.

⚠️ Attention: In the Truckers 2 modification, some trucks (for example, Ural Next) have increased fuel consumption on roads with poor surfaces. Before purchasing, check the routes - if you often drive on regional roads, take a car with reinforced suspension.

Don't forget about insurance! In the game it works like in real life: the older the truck, the more expensive the policy. For example, insurance for Scania R420 (2020) will cost ~2,000 €/month, and for KAMAZ (2010) - only 800 €. But if an accident occurs, repairing domestic equipment can cost a pretty penny due to a shortage of spare parts (this is also part of the gameplay in the modification).

Route optimization: how to earn more for the same mileage

In Truckers 2, money is made not on speed, but on correct choice of cargo. For example, transportation chemicals from St. Petersburg to Yekaterinburg will bring 30% more than furniture delivery along the same route. But there are pitfalls here: dangerous goods require special permits (they are paid in the game), and their transportation increases the chance of being stopped at traffic police posts.

Here are three rules for maximum profit:

1. Use “hot” loads - in the game they are marked with a red exclamation mark. They need to be transported quickly, but the payment is 40-50% higher.
2. Build order chains — pick up the cargo in the destination city of the previous flight. For example: Moscow → Kazan (metal) → Ekaterinburg (products) → Chelyabinsk (equipment).
3. Avoid empty runs — if you can’t find a return cargo, reduce the price in the exchange menu (but not lower than 20% of the market price).

The “Truckers 2” modification adds unique routes across Russia with realistic distances. For example, the path Moscow — Vladivostok will take about 7 hours of real time (including sleep and refueling). To avoid wasting time, use autopilot (key TAB), but remember: in modification it can “fall asleep” on bad roads, so check the truck periodically.

Route	Distance (km)	Average payment (€)	Travel time (h)	Recommended truck
Moscow — St. Petersburg	720	4 500 — 6 000	2.5	Any (normal roads)
Ekaterinburg — Novosibirsk	1 500	8 000 — 10 000	5	Scania/Volvo (mountain areas)
Krasnodar — Rostov-on-Don	650	3 800 — 5 000	2	DAF/Mercedes (flat route)
Vladivostok — Khabarovsk	800	5 500 — 7 500	3	KAMAZ with reinforced suspension
Chelyabinsk — Omsk	1 200	6 500 — 8 500	4	Volvo FH16 (winter tires required)

⚠️ Attention: In the modification "Truckers 2" in winter on some routes (for example, Perm — Syktyvkar) appear unmarked ice areas. If you don't change to winter tires, the truck will skid even at 40 km/h. This is the only case in the game when a fine for speeding can save you from an accident.

Legal nuances in “Truckers 2”: fines, customs and traffic police

Unlike standard ETS 2, the modification “Truckers 2” adds system of fines and checks, close to Russian reality. For example, if you exceed the speed limit by 20+ km/h, you will be stopped and given a fine of 1,000 to 5,000 € (depending on the load). But there are more insidious traps:

What does the traffic police check in the game:

• 🚨 Overload — if the weight of the cargo exceeds that allowed for your truck, the fine will be 3,000 € + forced unloading (loss of time).
• 📄 Lack of documents — for dangerous goods you need a permit (costs ~2,000 € in the company menu). Without it, the cargo will be confiscated.
• 🍺 Alcohol in the blood - if you haven’t slept for 12+ hours, the inspector may send you for a medical examination (fine 7,000 €).
• 🚧 Malfunctions - broken headlights or worn tires = fine 1,500 € + forced repairs.

Particularly difficult to pass customs posts at regional borders (for example, when entering Crimea). Check here:

1. Accompanying documents for the cargo.
2. Compliance with weight and dimensions (the modification added height restrictions for some bridges).
3. Availability inspection ticket (if not, fine 2,500 €).

To minimize risks:

Check the weight of the cargo in the menu F7 → Cargo

Buy a dangerous goods permit (if needed)

Renew your vehicle inspection ticket (costs €1,200, valid for 30 days)

Fill up to a full tank (there may be queues at customs)

Check the tire pressure (in the modification this affects fines)

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Interesting fact: in Truckers 2 you can bribe inspectors (key F4 when stopping). This will work 70% of the time, but if you get scammed, the fine will double. It's up to you to take risks or not!

Tuning and upgrades: what a truck really needs

Many players spend money on cosmetic tuning (spoilers, LEDs), but in Truckers 2 it's a waste of money. Instead, invest in:

• 🔧 Engine — upgrade to 600+ hp adds 10-15 km/h on inclines and reduces fuel consumption by 2-3 l/100 km.
• ⚙️ Gearbox — A 12-speed gearbox with a retarder saves fuel by 5-7%.
• 🛞 Tires — winter tires are required from November to March (in the modification without them, the truck slips even on asphalt).
• 🔋 Battery and generator - enhanced options allow the use of more electronics (for example, a refrigerator in the cabin).

Here is a table of upgrade priorities (from most important to least):

Upgrade	Cost (€)	Effect	Payback (flights)
Reinforced engine (500→600 hp)	18 000	+10 km/h on inclines, -3 l/100 km	15-20
12-speed gearbox	12 000	-5% fuel consumption	25-30
Winter tires (set)	3 500	No drifts on ice	5 (savings on fines)
Reinforced suspension	8 000	You can take +10% of cargo	10
Sleeper (premium)	5 000	Fatigue recovers faster	30

One of the most controversial upgrades is automatic transmission. It simplifies control, but increases fuel consumption by 3-4 l/100 km. In Truckers 2 this is critical, because fuel in the modification is 10-15% more expensive than in the standard game.

⚠️ Attention: If you play with the Real Wear mod, never skimp on brake pads and shock absorbers. Their wear by up to 30% increases the braking distance by 40%, which on Russian highways (especially in modification) often leads to accidents.

How to save on upgrades?

Some parts can be purchased at disassembly sites (in the menu Service → Used spare parts). For example, a used engine will cost 2 times less than a new one, but will last 30% less. It is worth taking risks only in the early stages of the game, when money is sorely lacking.

Economic secrets: how to get rich quickly in Truckers 2

There are several in the game hidden mechanics, which allow you to earn 2-3 times more than usual. Here are the most effective strategies:

1. Specialization in cargo

- The most profitable types of cargo in modification:

- Petroleum products (payment +40%, but permits are required).

- Construction equipment (payment +35%, but a low frame truck is required).

- Food (payment + 25%, but delivery times are tight).

- Avoid furniture and clothes - the payment is minimal, and the weight often exceeds the norm.

2. Using credits

- Take out a loan only for truck (not for garage or upgrades). The interest rate is 5% per month, but if you repay early, the overpayment will drop to 2%.

- The optimal loan amount is 70% of the value of the truck. For example, on Volvo FH16 (250 000 €) take 175,000 €.

3. Hired drivers

- Hire drivers only after purchasing a second truck. Their salary is 20% of the profit from the flight, but they can bring up to 15,000 €/day (if you choose the right routes).

- The best drivers in the modification:

- Alexey (experience: long-haul flights) — ideal for routes of 1,000+ km.

- Ivan (experience: dangerous goods) — takes orders with high payment, but often gets fined.

- Sergey (experience: fuel economy) — reduces consumption by 8-10%.

4. Stock game

- Added in modification truck exchange (menu Company → Exchange). Here you can buy used equipment for 20-30% cheaper than the salon, but with the risk of hidden breakdowns.

- Check the history of the truck before purchasing: if it contains an “accident” entry, refuse it - repairs will cost more than the savings.

Top 5 mistakes newbies make in Truckers 2 (and how to avoid them)

Even experienced standard players ETS 2 stumble over the features of the “Truckers 2” modification. Here are the most common mistakes:

1. Ignoring the weather

- Added to modifications real weather conditions: rain, snow, fog. For example, in Krasnoyarsk region in winter the temperature drops to -30°C, and if you do not turn on the cabin heating (F5), the driver gets sick (fine 3,000 € for sick leave).

2. Overload without consequences

- In the standard game, overload is almost not punished, but in “Truckers 2”, for exceeding the weight by 1 ton, you are fined 500 € + forced unloading (loss of 1 hour of time).

3. Savings on technical inspection

- Without a valid coupon (F7 → Documents) you will not be allowed through customs, and the fine will be 5,000 €.

4. Wrong choice of trailer

- For forests Need a trailer with side loading for liquids - tank, for technology - low-slung. If you take the wrong one, the cargo will not fit, and the money for the order will be deducted.

5. Ignoring fatigue

- Added in modification real sleep mode: if you don’t sleep for 14+ hours, the truck begins to “float” on the road, and the likelihood of an accident increases 3 times.

⚠️ Attention: In "Truckers 2" there is hidden driver wear mechanism. If you drive for a long time without rest, after 20 hours behind the wheel hallucinations will begin to appear (for example, pedestrians will “flash” on the road). This is not a bug, but a feature - this is how the game forces you to monitor your work and rest schedule.

Mods that will turn Truckers 2 into a real life simulator

The basic modification already adds realism, but with the right mods the game becomes almost indistinguishable from the real work of a truck driver. Here are the must-have supplements:

1. "Real fuel"

- Fuel becomes different in quality: at cheap gas stations, consumption increases by 15%, and the engine wears out faster.

- Prices vary by region: in Moscow a liter of diesel costs 1.2 €, and in Siberia - 1.5 €.

2. "Live Weather"

- Adds dynamic weather changes: for example, in the Rostov region there can be dust storms in the summer (visibility 50 meters).

- In winter they appear on the roads snow driftswhich you have to go around.

3. "Traffic of Russia"

- Replaces European traffic with realistic Russian: more trucks, aggressive drivers in Zhiguli cars, and even traffic cops at traffic police posts.

- Are added traffic jams in large cities (Moscow, St. Petersburg) during rush hours.

4. "Economy +"

- Prices for cargo and fuel vary depending on the season. For example, in winter, payments for coal transportation increase by 30%, and in summer prices for agricultural products rise.

- Appear bank loans with different bets (in a standard game there is only one option).

5. "Traffic Accidents"

- Adds accidents on roads that you have to go around.

- Sometimes they come across "speed bumps" and pits, which may not be noticed (if you drive faster than 90 km/h, the risk of damage to the suspension is 50%).

You need to install mods via Mod Manager (in the game launch menu). Important: Some mods conflict with each other. For example, “Real Fuel” and “Economy +” may cause an error when calculating profit. Before installing, check compatibility on forums (for example, truckersmp.com).

How to speed up loading a game with mods?

If the game slows down after installing 10+ mods, do the following:

1. Disable unnecessary sound mods (they load the processor the most).

2. On file config.cfg (game folder) change the setting usr_set_g_console"0" on usr_set_g_console"1" - this will speed up loading by 20%.

3. Use DxVK for DirectX 11 (even if you have a weak PC, FPS will increase by 15-20 fps).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about “ETS 2 Truckers 2”

🔹 Why are there so few orders for some trucks in the modification?

In Truckers 2, the number of orders depends on truck type and region. For example, on KAMAZ more cargo in Siberia and the Urals, and Scania more often in demand in the European part of Russia. Also affects time of year: in winter there are more orders for fuel and food, in summer - for construction materials.

If there are few orders, try:

• Change the city (for example, move from Moscow to Yekaterinburg).
• Buy a truck of a different brand (for example, instead of DAF take Volvo).
• Update the game and mods - sometimes the bug with missing orders is fixed in patches.

🔹 How to go through customs in Crimea without fines?

Customs in Crimea is one of the strictest in modification. To pass without problems:

1. Check what you have transportation permit (if you are carrying dangerous cargo).
2. Make sure the weight of the load does not exceed 40 tons (in Crimea the restriction is stricter than in the rest of Russia).
3. Fuel up to a full tank - there may be queues at customs (in the game this takes up to 30 minutes of real time).
4. If you have KAMAZ or Ural, check the tire pressure (F7 → Status) - inspectors often cling to this.

If you are still fined, you can try to give a bribe (F4), but in Crimea this works only in 30% of cases.

🔹 Why doesn’t the truck go faster than 60 km/h, even if you accelerate to the floor?

This problem is for the Truckers 2 modification and is related to:

• Overload — if the weight of the load exceeds the norm by 20%+, the speed drops to 50-60 km/h.
• Engine wear — if you don’t change the oil (>10,000 km), the power drops by 30%.
• Incorrect gearbox settings - realistic added to the modification retarder, which slows down the engine on descents. Disabled in the menu F6 → Truck Settings → Transmission.
• Weather conditions — at temperatures below -20°C, diesel fuel thickens and the engine loses power.

To diagnose the problem, open the menu F7 → Status and check the parameters Power and Weight.

🔹 Is it possible to buy real Russian trucks (KAMAZ, Ural, MAZ) in the game?

Yes, but only if the “Truckers 2” modification is installed (or similar ones, for example, Russian Trucks Pack). There are no Russian trucks in the base game.

Features of domestic equipment in modification:

• KAMAZ-5490 - cheap, but breaks down every 10,000 km. Suitable for short flights