.scs or .zip file in Documents\American Truck Simulator\mod (or subscribe on the Steam Workshop), then activate the mod in Mod Manager for your profile. To use the same mods on a FREAKHOSTING convoy server, load your profile, run export_server_packages in the game’s console and upload the two exported files to the server. Every player needs the mods too.
How to install mods in your own game
1
Get the mod
Subscribe on the Steam Workshop for American Truck Simulator, or download the mod file from its author’s page.
2
Put downloaded files in the mod folder
Copy the
.scs or .zip file into Documents\American Truck Simulator\mod. Workshop mods don’t need this step; Steam downloads them for you.3
Open Mod Manager
Start the game, select your profile and open Mod Manager.
4
Activate the mod
Move the mod to the active list and confirm. The game blocks a mod that needs a DLC you don’t own.
5
Load your profile
Load the profile and check the mod works in single player before you use it in multiplayer.
How to use mods on your ATS server
The dedicated server can’t download from the Steam Workshop and doesn’t use a mod folder. It reads the mod list fromserver_packages.sii and server_packages.dat, which you export from your game with the mods active.
1
Activate the mods in your game
Use the exact set of mods the server should run, in your own profile.
2
Export server packages
Load the profile, open the console with
~ and type export_server_packages. See export server packages for turning the console on.3
Upload to the server
Stop the server and upload both files to Files >
.local > share > American Truck Simulator, replacing the old ones.4
Start and check
Start the server and check
[MP] Modded session: in the console.Which mods work in multiplayer?
Frequently asked questions
Where is the ATS mods folder?
Documents\American Truck Simulator\mod on your PC. Workshop mods are managed by Steam and appear in Mod Manager automatically.
Do I upload .scs mod files to my server?
No. The server only needs the exportedserver_packages.sii and server_packages.dat. The mod files stay on each player’s PC.
Why can’t players join after I added a mod?
They need the same active mods as the server, the DLC the mods need, and the same game version. Re-export the packages whenever you change your mod list.Can I use Workshop mods on the server?
Yes, through the export. Subscribe in your game, activate the mods and export. Players subscribe to the same mods.Related guides
ATS server guide
Every ATS page in one place.
Export server packages
export_server_packages, step by step.Optional mods
Let players join without every mod.
Coast to Coast map
Map mods on your server.
File Manager
Upload files to your server.
Checked against the official SCS dedicated server documentation and mod manager documentation on 30 October 2026; panel steps tested on our Game Panel (American Truck Simulator dedicated server 1.61s). Details may change with game updates.
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Last Updated: October 2026