Euro Truck Simulator 2 has countless routes, trucks, and money-making strategies that can make or break your virtual trucking empire. After thousands of hours hauling cargo across Europe, I've ranked the most important elements that determine your success on the road. This ETS2 best routes and truck tier list will help you maximize profits and build the ultimate trucking business.
Table of Contents
- Route Profitability Tier List
- Truck Performance Rankings
- Cargo Type Money Makers
- Essential Truck Modifications
- Company Contract Rankings
- Skill Priority Tiers
Route Profitability Tier List
The backbone of any Euro Truck Simulator money guide starts with choosing the right routes. Distance and cargo value determine your paycheck, but some routes consistently outperform others.
| Tier | Routes | Average Profit | Why They're Ranked Here |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | Scandinavia to Southern Europe (Oslo to Palermo) | €15,000+ | Maximum distance multiplier, premium cargo rates |
| A | UK to Eastern Europe (Edinburgh to Warsaw) | €12,000-15,000 | Excellent distance, ferry crossings add value |
| A | France to Russia (Paris to Moscow) | €11,000-14,000 | Long haul with consistent high-value cargo |
| B | Germany Internal Routes (Berlin to Munich) | €8,000-10,000 | Reliable but limited distance multiplier |
| C | Benelux Triangle Routes | €5,000-8,000 | Short distances hurt profit margins |
| D | City Loop Deliveries | €2,000-4,000 | Waste of fuel and time for minimal gains |
S-Tier routes dominate because ETS2's payment system heavily rewards distance. A 2,400km journey from Oslo to Palermo pays nearly triple what you'd earn on three 800km trips. The Scandinavian routes also feature premium cargo like machinery and chemicals that boost your base rate.
A-Tier routes offer excellent money without the extreme time investment of S-tier hauls. The UK routes get bonus points because ferry crossings count as additional distance for payment calculations.
Truck Performance Rankings
Your truck choice impacts fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and climb performance. These rankings focus on ETS2 profitable jobs and overall versatility.
S-Tier Trucks
Scania S Series 730S leads the pack with 730 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. This beast climbs Alpine passes without breaking a sweat while delivering 6.2 km/L fuel efficiency on highways. The cab comfort also reduces fatigue on long hauls.
Volvo FH16 750 matches the Scania's power with slightly better torque distribution. Perfect for heavy cargo runs through mountainous terrain.
A-Tier Trucks
MAN TGX 640 provides 90% of S-tier performance at a lower purchase price. Smart choice for players building their first truck fleet.
Mercedes Actros 1851 excels at fuel efficiency (6.8 km/L) but lacks climbing power for mountain routes.
B-Tier and Below
DAF XF trucks offer solid reliability but can't compete with top-tier power and efficiency. Renault and Iveco models fall into C and D tiers due to poor fuel economy and limited customization options.
Cargo Type Money Makers
Not all cargo pays equally. ETS2 profitable jobs depend heavily on understanding which loads generate maximum revenue per kilometer.
S-Tier Cargo includes heavy machinery, construction equipment, and chemicals. These specialty loads pay 20-40% above standard rates and often require special permits that add distance bonuses.
A-Tier Cargo covers luxury cars, electronics, and medical supplies. Consistent availability and decent pay rates make these reliable money makers.
B-Tier Cargo includes standard manufactured goods and food products. Basic but abundant, perfect for maintaining cash flow.
C and D-Tier Cargo like empty containers and basic materials barely cover fuel costs. Avoid unless you're desperate or repositioning for better loads.
Essential Truck Modifications
ETS2 truck mods can transform your earning potential, but prioritizing the right upgrades matters more than having everything installed.
S-Tier Modifications
- Largest Fuel Tank Available: Reduces fuel stops and enables longer profitable routes
- Most Powerful Engine: Essential for maintaining speed on climbs and meeting delivery deadlines
- Advanced Transmission: Improves fuel efficiency by 8-12% through optimal gear selection
A-Tier Modifications
- GPS and Trip Computer: Prevents costly wrong turns and helps plan fuel stops
- Improved Suspension: Reduces cargo damage on rough roads
- Xenon Headlights: Safer night driving means more available job opportunities
B-C Tier Modifications
Cosmetic upgrades like custom paint and interior accessories look great but don't impact your Euro Truck business guide bottom line. Save these for after you've established steady income streams.
Company Contract Rankings
Building relationships with specific companies unlocks exclusive high-value contracts. Some partnerships pay significantly better than others.
S-Tier Companies like Posped and Trameri offer consistent high-value electronics and machinery contracts. Their routes typically span 1,500+ kilometers with premium pay rates.
A-Tier Companies including Eurogoodies and LKW provide steady work with above-average compensation. Perfect for building reputation while maintaining cash flow.
B-Tier and below companies offer basic goods transport with standard rates. Use these for skill building but don't expect exceptional profits.
Skill Priority Tiers
Your driver skills directly impact earning potential. Focus on these S-Tier skills first: Long Distance, High Value Cargo, and Fragile Cargo. These unlock the most profitable job categories and increase base pay rates by up to 50%.
A-Tier skills like Fuel Economy and Eco-Driving reduce operating costs. Just Delivery and Heavy Cargo expand job availability without major pay boosts.
B and C-Tier skills provide minor conveniences but don't significantly impact your trucking empire's growth rate.
Check out our detailed ETS2 builds guide for specific skill point allocation strategies that maximize your earning potential at every experience level.
Start with S-tier routes using A-tier or better trucks, focus on high-value cargo, and watch your virtual bank account grow faster than you ever thought possible.