Best Jump Starter for Semi Trucks (2022)

It can be really frustrating when your semi truck stops in the middle of the road and refuses to get back up. To make sure you don’t encounter any such scenario, we’ve reviewed the best jump starter for semi trucks.

See, with a reliable jump starter having your back, you’d never have to worry about your truck’s battery giving up on you in the middle of nowhere.

But, there’s a small hurdle; how do you know if a jump starter is right for your semi truck? That’s what I’m going to talk about in this in-depth blog post.

In the first part, I’ll be reviewing the best semi truck jump starter out there, helping you choose the right one. Whereas, the second part will address the questions you might have about jump-starting your vehicle.

Let’s get started.

In a Hurry? Why Not Check Our Top 3 Picks?

Best Jump Starter for Semi Trucks (Review)

1. Truck PAC ES1224 12/24V Jump Starter – Best Overall

Truck PAC jump starters have a unique place in the industry. They are reliable and incredibly powerful. What makes them unique is their ES Series batteries. Although rivals like Schumacher DSR115 come with higher amperage, the PAC models’ batteries provide long hours of professional use.

Probably the most attractive feature of the Truck PAC ES1224, after reliability, of course, is its range of applications. Because of its dual output of 12V with 3000 amps and 24V with 1500 amps, you won’t have to worry about getting stranded in the middle of nowhere with a dead battery again.

What this means is that you can jump-start even the most stubborn vehicle batteries with it. Moreover, the jump starter has a tough exterior thanks to its hard aluminum casing. And, the integrated LED flashlight and an easy-grip handle make it convenient to use.

In addition, you might also like its automatic charging feature. With this feature activated, the unit automatically starts charging whenever you plug it into a power source.

Additionally, the jump starter boasts powerful jaws that safely and effectively grip battery terminals. All in all, the Truck PAC ES1224 is a perfect jump starter for a professional trucker who works long hours in extreme conditions.

However, the jump starter unit can be a little heavy.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 3000 (12V)
• Peak Amps: 1500 (24V)
• Battery type: Lead-acid
• Cable length: 60”

Pros

• High-performance ES series batteries
• Strong and effective
• Hot jaw clamps
• 60” cable
• Versatile (1500 & 3000 amps)

Cons

• Heavy

2. NOCO Boost Pro GB150 12-Volt Lithium Jump Starter – Runner Up

Founded in 1914, the NOCO brand has been pretty popular for its chargers, boosters, batteries, and other products. The GB150 is another great product from NOCO. The jump starter is one of the reliable ones on the market and comes with a lithium-ion battery.

Moreover, it is compact and fairly lightweight, which makes it portable and easy to carry around. The battery delivers a whopping 3000 amps, so you won’t have to worry about its compatibility with your truck’s battery.

What’s more, you can use this jump starter unit with diesel and gasoline engines with up to 10 liters capacity. Another stand-out feature that makes this unit unique from its competitors is its spark-proof technology. This makes sure that your battery connects to the jump starter safely.

Additionally, the quality of the unit is also up to the mark; it’s rust-, water-, and dust-proof, which means you’ll never have to worry about damaging it. Plus, it’s rated IP65 waterproof, which protects it from harmful debris and moisture.

Also, the device boasts a 500-lumen LED flashlight with seven modes, providing effective night visibility whenever you need it. Here’s another exciting feature; you can even recharge your gadgets on the go thanks to the 12V/15amps port on the jump starter.

However, keep in mind that it’s a 12V jump starter; it’ll only be useful if your truck’s battery is also 12V.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 3000  (12V)
• Battery Type: Lithium
• Up to 80 jump starts per charge
• LED lumens: 500

Pros

• Portable and ergonomic design
• Powerful
• IP65-rated: Water- and dust-proof
• Safe

Cons

• Only compatible with 12V batteries

3. Schumacher DSR115 DSR ProSeries Jump Starter – Also Great

Schumacher has been in the jump starter business for over 40 years. Other products that the brand manufactures include vehicle batteries and chargers.

With a whopping 4400 peak amps, Schumacher is one of the most powerful units out there. This makes it an ideal device for diesel semi trucks.

Moreover, Schumacher has its own patented ignition interlock technology that prevents your truck from cranking without a battery cable.

Plus, you get a 750 CCA battery capacity on the 12V output and a 475 CCA battery capacity on the 24V output. And, that’s more than enough to kick-start most small to medium vehicles including lawnmowers and boats.

In addition, there’s a powerful 12V DC outlet and a USB port that lets you charge a variety of gadgets including tablets and mobile phones. Not only that, but the digital display on the jump starter tells you how much power is left in the batteries of the unit. You’ll always know when it’s time to recharge the jump starter.

Also, you don’t have to worry about accidentally connecting the cables in a way that could damage the batteries thanks to the reverse polarity warning security feature.

Plus, you get a number of additional accessories to help you start your vehicle. These include jumper cable clamps, chargers, and remote switches.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 4400 (12V)
• Peak Amps: 2000 (24V)
• Battery Type: Lead Acid
• Digital Display

Pros

• High output batteries
• Works with diesel and gas engines
• A variety of features: USB port, 12V DC power adapter, charger
• Versatile

Cons

• Non-universal plug

4. NOCO Boost Plus GB40 12-Volt Lithium Jump Starter

The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is another safe and effective jump starter you can rely on while traveling on your semi truck. It’s a heavy duty jump starter for semi truck. Plus, it’s compact and comes with a lithium battery that provides up to 20 jump starts on a single charge.

Moreover, the jump starter unit is rated for diesel engines up to 3 liters and gasoline engines up to 6 liters. Thanks to the reverse polarity protection and the spark-proof technology, you can safely use the unit with a 12V battery of your truck.

However, it’s not just a vehicle jump starter; you can use it as a portable power bank and as an LED flashlight. Recharge any USB-based device, including your smartphone and tablet. There’s an integrated 100-lumen LED light with seven light modes as well.

And, courtesy of the high-discharge lithium technology, you can use this unit safely in any climate. Its enclosure is water-resistant and rugged and is rated at IP65. A rubberized casing prevents surface scratches.

Plus, you’ll also be able to carry the GB40 jump starter easily as it weighs around 2.4 pounds and has a compact design. Other accessories that come with the jump starter are a micro USB charging cable, a 12V car charger, heavy-duty battery clamps, and a micro-fiber storage bag. The unit is designed in the US and comes with a 1-year warranty.

However, the cables of the jump starter might be too short.  

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 1000 (12V)
• Battery: Lithium
• IP65 rated
• 2.4 pounds

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Water-proof
• 1-year warranty
• Multi-functional

Cons

• The cables might be too short

5. Truck PAC ES6000 12V Jump Starter

The PAC ES6000 jump starter comes with dual ES Series batteries specifically designed for jump starting vehicles. It delivers 3000 peak amps and is compatible with 12V vehicle batteries. So, the jump starter can be used to jump-start a semi truck with a 12V battery.

And, courtesy of the batteries, the unit delivers numerous jumps per charge and high output current. The cables that come with the device are extra long, allowing easy positioning.

In addition, the jump starter features industrial-grade hot jaw clamps, which means maximum power will be transferred to your vehicle. You also won’t have to worry about the durability of the unit; its robust components can easily withstand harsh conditions. It works effectively in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, the jump starter unit can be a little heavy.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 3000 (12V)
• Hot jaw clamps
• ES series batteries

Pros

• Works in extreme temperatures
• Numerous jumps per charge
• Extra-long cables
• Industrial grade hot jaw clamps
• Robust build

Cons

• A little heavy

6. Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 12/24V Jump Starter

If you need a powerful multi-volt jump start for your vehicle, the Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 might interest you. The jump starter boasts 3400 peak amps in the 12V mode and 1700 peak amps in the 24V mode.

Moreover, the unit is pretty easy to shift from 12V to 24V. There’s a built-in automatic charger with continuous charging capability.

In addition, the jump starter also has heavy-duty construction, which means it’ll get the job done no matter how extreme the conditions or requirements are. The 46-inch heavy-gauge cables are highly efficient at transferring power to the unit.

And, all the components are protected inside a drop-resistant housing. What’s more, the JNC1224 uses dual Clore PERFORMER batteries. These batteries are specifically designed to ensure a smooth vehicle jump-start and are replaceable and easily available on Amazon at a reasonable price.

However, the Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 is a little heavy, so if you are looking for a super-portable jump starter, this might not be it. Plus, there is no way to know if it’s charging as there is no LED light to indicate that.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 3400 (12V)
• Peak Amps: 1700 (24V)
• Dual Clore PERFORMER batteries
• Weight: 40 lbs.

Pros

• Powerful and easy to use
• Versatile (12V + 24V)
• Heavy-duty construction
• Automatic charger
• Easily available replaceable batteries

Cons

• Heavy
• No LED to indicate charging

7. Schumacher PSJ-4424 DSR ProSeries Jump Starter

The PSJ-4424 DSR ProSeries 4400 Peak Amps Jump Starter and Portable Power Unit is the ultimate solution for all your battery woes. It also includes a full range of power sockets and plugs, meaning you can use it with your devices.

Plus, the PSJ-4424 will let you jump-start almost any vehicle and restore the power of its battery. The PSJ-4424 ProSeries is one of the most powerful jump starters. With an output of 4400 peak amps, the ProSeries has enough power to charge almost all the commonly used electric vehicles on the market.

Moreover, if you have a crank-style battery, you may not be able to start your car. This Schumacher features 500 cranking amps and 415 cold-cranking amps, just in case you need it for a big rig. The PSJ-4424 can jump-start cars, trucks, medium and heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles, and even 12-volt golf carts.

A heavy-duty slide clamp has replaceable copper jaws with built-in supports to ensure jaw alignment and is not riveted so that it can be removed without tools. Before installing the new copper jaw, make sure it is clean and free of dirt or grease.

To sum up, the Schumacher PSJ-4424 DSR ProSeries Jump Starter is one of the best premium jump starters on the market. It has plenty of power to work with even the most demanding applications and high-performance tools. It also has a long useful life, is compact for easy storage and transport, and offers fast and easy charging.

Pros

• Digital Display
• 3-Amps extra automatic charger
• Heavy-duty clamp
• High output AGM batteries
• Impressive material

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavyweight

8. AUTOGEN 32000mAh Lithium Car Jump Starter

The AUTOGEN Jump Starter is a portable auto battery jumper starter with 4500 amps of power. It is also equipped with safety protection that automatically cuts off the power if the batteries are overheated to avoid battery damage.

Plus, the jump starter features a USB port that charges your cell phone while you’re charging the car. It features an automatic voltage regulator that ensures a constant, reliable power supply.

In addition, AUTOGEN is compatible with 10.0L+ gas & diesel engines, which means it can also be used as a generator for small appliances requiring a 12V output.

What’s more, the AUTOGEN 4500 Amp Jump Starter is an excellent option for anyone who travels a lot on a semi truck and wants a reliable backup for battery power. Its Built-in Cigarette Charger comes in handy if your smartphone’s battery is low or you need to recharge any other electronic device.

When you need it the most, it can jump-start your vehicle with a solid and reliable power source. You can easily store it in your semi truck and move it around as it’s sleek and lightweight.

The AUTOGEN 4500 Amp Jump Starter is one of the best ones on our list as far as budget-friendliness is concerned. Reliable power and additional features on this jump starter make it well worth the cost. However, the Jump-starter should be used only in emergencies.

Pros

• Easy to operate
• Ultra-bright LED flashlight
• Lightweight and Portable
• 75% faster for charging portable accessories
• Dual QC 3.0 Input and Output

Cons

• Not compatible with 24V
• Missing digital display

9. DEWALT DXAEJ14 Digital Portable Power Station Jump Starter

First things first. The DEWALT DXAEJ14 comes with impact-resistant housing, which means you can use this jump starter without having to worry about damaging its components.

The heavy-duty ergonomic handle with a comfortable rubber grip makes sure that you can easily and safely move the jump starter unit around.

In addition, the jump starter unit also comes with high-intensity LED work lights on it. This means you will be able to effectively use the device in the nighttime. Moreover, there is battery clamp storage on the unit as well, allowing you to safely store the clamps when not in use.

Let’s now get to the more important aspect; the voltage and peak amps. The jump starter comes with peak amps of 1400 and is compatible with 12V batteries.

Moreover, you get a built-in USB port on the jump starter unit as well. This means you’ll never have to worry about your gadgets’ battery running out. However, you do have to use your own extension cord with the charger. The dual USB charging ports allow you to juice up two electronic devices at the same time.

Plus, the jump starter is really easy to use; all you’ll have to do is connect the clamps to your battery, turn the switch on, and start your semi truck. You won’t have to worry about improper connections courtesy of the reverse polarity alarm. There’s an LCD screen on the unit too, allowing you to work in the dark without hassle.

Not only that, but the jump starter also features a 120 PSI compressor with a Surefit nozzle and auto-stop functionality. It helps you make sure all your truck’s tires have adequate air pressure.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 1400 (12V)
• Battery: Sealed Lead Acid
• Weight: 17.5 lbs.

Pros

• Easy to use
• A 120 PSI compressor
• An LED light and LCD
• Impact-resistant housing
• Built-in USB ports for charging
• Lightweight

Cons

• There have been reports of malfunction

10. JUMTOP 12V Car Battery Charger Jump Starter

The JUMTOP is a versatile and powerful jump starter. It’s ideal for a variety of vehicles including boats, trucks, cars, motorcycles, and even more. You can use it with up to 10L gasoline and 8L diesel engines.

Plus, you can jump-start your semi truck’s battery within seconds thanks to the 3000 peak amps compatible with 12V batteries. You also get an LED flashlight on the jump starter unit with three light modes, allowing you to use it easily at night.

Moreover, because the unit is compact in size, you can store it in your vehicle’s glove box. The jump starter unit is lightweight, so you can also carry it around with ease.

In addition, you can jump-start your vehicle up to 60 times with a single charge thanks to the 22000mAh-capacity battery.

What’s more, the intelligent cable design offers protection from a variety of unwanted situations, including:

• Short circuit
• Over-temperature
• Over-charge
• Over-discharge
• Over-current
• Over-voltage

Plus, there are two USB ports that provide high-speed charging for your electronic devices such as tablets, cellphones, digital cameras, and more. Also, you can charge your phone around seven times courtesy of the battery’s generous capacity.  

Also, the jump starter unit has a cigarette lighter that can be used to power different auto products such as air compressors, car fridges, GPS, DVR, air purifier, etc.

Don’t worry about the temperature of your surroundings either. The jump starter can handle extreme temperatures effectively with a working temperature from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Using This Jump Starter

• Insert the cable plug in the jump starter unit
• Connect the vehicle battery and clamps
• Start the engine
• Remove the clamps

As you can see, the jump starter is pretty straightforward to use.

However, make sure that you read the instruction manual carefully before using the unit. And, although the jump starter works fine at sub-zero temperatures, you might have to plan ahead for use in extremely high temperatures. Just in case.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 3000 (12V)
• Battery: Lithium
• Weight: 1.36 lbs.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to use
• Protection from short-circuit
• USB ports for charging
• Works in extreme conditions

Cons

• Overtemperature might be a problem

11. Tyrell Chenergy 12V/24V Jump Starter

The Tyrell Chenergy is another versatile and effective jump starter on our list. You can jump-start a variety of vehicles with it courtesy of the 1800 peak amps with 12V and 900 peak amps with 24V.

So, the next time you hit the road with your semi truck or any other vehicle, you won’t have to worry about the battery dying on you. The unit is even useful for buses, garages, farms, and construction sites.

Moreover, the sealed lead acid battery of the jump starter has enough capacity for your vehicle as well as other electronic devices and tools that can be charged through a USB port. Keep in mind that it can only power 12V accessories.

Plus, the exterior of the jump starter unit is impact-resistant, increasing its life and allowing you to use it without worrying about damaging it.

In addition, a heavy-duty clamp with pure copper insulated jaws can easily cut through the battery corrosion and provide maximum power transfer.

The reverse polarity indication and alarm system won’t let you connect the wires in a way that could damage your batteries. Plus, the unit has low voltage protection.

Also, You get an emergency work light on this jump starter unit, allowing you to use it in emergency situations with ease. And, the color LED indicators let you check the battery status any time you want.

Moreover, the brand is giving a 12-month after-sales customer service that covers instructions, product protection, replacement, repair, etc.

Another good thing is that the jump starter unit is pretty lightweight. It weighs around 19.41 lbs., so you can move it around without hassle whenever you need it.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 1800 (12V)
• Peak Amps: 900 (24V)
• Weight: 19.41 lbs.
• Batteries: Lead Acid

Pros

• Lightweight
• Versatile (12V and 24V)
• LED indicator and emergency light
• 12-month after-sale service
• Impact-resistant
• Safe (Reverse polarity indicators and alarm)

Cons

• Requires a dedicated DC converter to charge

12. GOOLOO 12V Car Jump Starter

This jump starter from GOOLOO is a powerful, versatile, and reliable device. In addition to a semi truck, you can use it with a passenger car, trailer, tractor, snowmobile, Van, motorcycle, and SUV.

Plus, the peak current of the unit is 4000 amps and it’s compatible with 12V batteries. Moreover, the lithium polymer battery has the capacity to jump-start your truck 60 times on a single charge.  

What’s more, the jump starter is also equipped with dual USB charging ports, allowing you to quickly charge any of your electronic devices. This includes your smartphone, camcorders, Bluetooth headphones, GPS, tablets, and more. It supports Type-C charging, so you won’t have to wait too long to get a fully charged device.

In addition, the cables of the jump starter are constructed with metal clamps, preventing breakage from long-term use. Another cool thing is that the unit has 10 protections. These include:

• Overcurrent protection
• Overcharge protection
• Overvoltage protection
• Overload protection
• And more

All that makes the jump starter super safe to use. Plus, its rubber corners and durable plastic make sure it withstands any drops. There’s a built-in flashlight that helps you use the unit effectively and easily at night.

In addition to the jump starter unit, you get a USB A wall charger, a USB-C cable, a storage case, and a user manual. Also, the jump starter is pretty lightweight; it weighs around 4.09 lbs., making it highly portable.

The bottom line is: The jump starter has got a lot of juice, is extremely reliable, and gets your vehicle up and running within seconds.

However, you might not get an accurate display of the charge level.

Key Specifications

• Peak Amps: 4000 (12V)
• Batteries: Lithium Polymer
• Weight: 4.09 lbs.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Powerful and versatile
• Fat charging of USB devices
• Comes with 10 protections
• Around 60 jump starts per charge

Cons

• Inaccurate display of charge level

This was all about the best jump starters for semi trucks. Let’s move to the part where we talk about selecting the best one for your truck.

How to Select the Right Jump Starter for Semi Trucks?

As you might already know, every jump starter is unique, which makes it necessary for you to learn about the one you are about to buy for your vehicle.

But, what qualities should a jump starter for semi trucks have? Let’s see.

What Amperage Do You Need to Jump-Start a Semi Truck?

When it comes to selecting a jump starter for your vehicle, one of the most important things you need to see is its amperage.

Generally, you want the amperage to be as high as possible, especially when you are buying a jumper for a semi truck.

Note that a pickup truck might not require more than 400 amps to jump-start. But, for a semi truck, you’d need at least 1500 amps to 2000 amps.

However, as mentioned before, the higher the better, so you want to get a portable jump starter with 2000 amps.

What Voltage Do You Need to Jump-Start a Semi Truck?

If you own a semi truck, you’d know that it consumes a lot of energy. So, to get it running, you need to use a jump starter with the right amount of voltage.

Generally, your jump starter’s voltage should be equal to the voltage of your battery’s voltage. So, if your truck has a 12V battery, you need a 12V jump starter. Whereas, if your semi has a 24V battery, a 24V jump starter will get the job done effectively.

That said, today, we have jump starters that support both battery types. So, if you can get a versatile jump starter, your truck’s battery voltage won’t matter.

Should You Go With a Lithium Jump Starter for a Semi Truck?

There are two popular types of jump starters for batteries:

1. Lithium-ion
2. Lead-acid

While both of the battery types serve the same purpose, they have their differences. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both battery types.

Lithium-ion Jump Starter

Pros

• Recharges quickly
• Portable and compact
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Needs protection in cold weather

Lead-acid Jump Starter

Pros

• Affordable
• Long shelf life
• Recharges quickly

Cons

• Relatively bulky

This was all about selecting the right jump starter for your semi truck. Let’s address some important questions you might have about jump starters for semi trucks now. 

Semi Truck Battery Jump Starter: Frequently Asked Questions

How to Jump a Starter On a Semi Truck?

Assuming that you’ve bought one of the jump starters we’ve reviewed above, here’s how you can jump-start a semi truck:

• Find your jumper cables; they’ll be at the back of your truck. One jumper cable for each battery bank
• Make sure they are not covered with mud or snow. Check the terminals; they should be clearly marked as positive and negative
• Attach one cable to each of your batteries. Make sure you attach them in the right configuration (check the color-coding or signage for positive and negative)
• Start your vehicle and leave it for about 20 hours to make sure the battery gets fully charged.

Now, the above procedure works with a typical jump starter, but the instructions might vary depending on the unit. So, it’s a good idea to read the instruction manual before using any jump starter.

How Many Amps to Jump Start a Semi Truck?

This is one of the most important questions you need to address before buying a jump starter. You need to know how many amps (and voltage) your semi truck needs to get started.

Here’s the answer: If your semi truck’s battery gives up on you for some reason, it’d need around 1500 – 2000 amps of current to get back up and running.

How Much Does it Cost to Jump Start a Semi Truck?

While the cost of jump-starting might vary from service to service, a typical local towing company would charge you anywhere around $50 or even $100 for a jump start.

But, if you have your own jump starter with you all the time, you won’t have to depend on any service.

How Long Does it Take to Jump Start a Semi Truck?

When you are using any of the jump starters we’ve reviewed above, it would only take a few seconds to jump-start a semi truck.

Can You Jump Start a Semi Truck with a Car?

Yes, you can jump-start a semi truck with a car, generally. But, you’d have to make sure that both the batteries are 12V and compatible with each other.

Once you are sure about that, you can connect your semi truck to the car with the jumper cables.

A caution: Don’t touch any part of both vehicles except for the cables and clamps. It can induce a spark or even cause an explosion. Plus, turn the cars off before connecting them.

Conclusion

This was all about the best semi truck jump starter and how you can select the right one for your vehicle. The buying guide and FAQ section should help you pick the best semi truck jump starter pack.

The most important thing to consider before finalizing the unit is its compatibility with your vehicle’s battery. See, 12V vehicle batteries can only be started using 12V jump starters.

Plus, durability, ease of use, amperage, portability, night usage, batter type, and affordability are all important factors to keep in mind.