Geospatial Truck Parking Locations Data for Europe

This data article introduces a comprehensive dataset of real-world truck parking locations across Europe. The dataset comprises N=19,713 designated parking sites classified according to public accessibility and suitability for heavy-duty trucks (HDTs). More specifically, core information comprises the truck stop category, latitude and longitude information, area size, and country assignment. Furthermore, additional information such as truck traffic flow volumes, proximity to the highway network, and land use information provide supplemental data on ambient conditions and thus enhance the contextual relevance of those locations.
The dataset was systematically generated using OpenStreetMap (OSM) data, focusing on parking areas, rest areas, and fueling stations as predominant public truck parking sites. These locations were evaluated and filtered for truck accessibility and suitability and then complemented and validated using commercial truck routing / geocoding software. Further refinement was achieved by Mean-Shift clustering. The further integration of supplementary datasets increased the information level, and all clustered locations were labeled into four archetypal categories. Finally, filtering retained only confidently classified publicly accessible and truck-certified parking and service facilities.
This dataset assists in finding real-world stop options for HDTs during national or international operations and identifying suitable and most attractive sites for deploying alternative charging or refueling infrastructures along the European transport network. Accordingly, it can serve as a valuable resource for research in traffic science, future energy systems, and alternative truck powertrains. Its added value extends to diverse stakeholders like Charge Point Operators (CPOs), truck manufacturers, logistics companies, and public authorities.