(WGHP) -- There are more than 277,000 truckers in North Carolina, and they transport 237 tons of freight every day. Post-Helene, logistics have been more challenging for truck drivers forced to avoid Interstate 40 and some of the harder-hit areas of western North Carolina. NCDOT.gov has posted a graphic advising truckers longer than 30 feet in particular not to use popular apps like Waze, Google Maps and Apple Maps and instead check department of transportation websites. They’ve had to go back to the old reliable methods like listening to local AM/FM radio stations for traffic alerts and telling each other on their CB radios. We traveled to Bill’s Truck Stop off 85 near Lexington where many local North Carolina drivers stop to have a bite to eat and get fuel. Drivers say heading west involves a lot of planning and patience post-storm. A regular GPS app does not account for 40-ton trucks and trailers, meaning checking the individual department of transportation websites for closed roads is the safest way to check. “They are going to go to these areas and not be able to get out. GPS is going to say to go one way, and they’re not going to be able to get out,” said Timothy Minter, a veteran truck driver. The conditions can be variable depending on the day, which is something Minter says is critical to keep track of. “If they are telling you, 'Don’t go in these areas and directions,' don’t go and use common sense ... If you are not sure, please contact the state troopers ... because it’s going to be a while before they get those areas back up,” Minter said. We checked the most recent apps. Taking Interstate 77 to Interstate 81 to avoid western North Carolina is the recommended route, but it will add up to half an hour to the trip. Check NCDrive.gov for the latest incidents. Toggle the Hurricane Helene option on the left side of the map and see which roads are affected after the storm.