The truck stop originated in the United States in the 1940s, as a reliable source of diesel fuel not commonly available at filling stations.
Smaller truck stops may consist of only a parking area, a fueling station, and perhaps a diner restaurant. Larger truck stops may have convenience stores of various sizes, showers, a small video arcade, and a TV/movie theater. The largest truck stops, like Iowa 80 (the largest in the world), may have several independent businesses operating under one roof, catering to a wide range of travelers' needs, and may have several major and minor fast-food chains operating a small food court.
Pilot, T/A, Loves, Petro, and Flying-J truck stops are selected most often, and thus are the most crowded. Pilot Flying J is currently the largest such chain with over 550 locations.