What is Telematics?

What is telematics? What are telematics? We’re not sure which is right – but what we do know is that telematics are a big topic in the trucking industry now. Does it matter to the average trucker what telematics is measuring?

Before your next roadside stop, learn how to check your ELD before a DOT inspection so a malfunction doesn’t put you out of service.

Telematics is the combination of GPS tracking, cellular communication, and AI-powered data analysis working together in one system. With all the data collected, fleet managers and owner-operators can see trends and make better decisions about their trucks.

This is cutting edge use of technology with some tremendous benefits. By tracking ELD data, decisions about routing and load management can be made with artificial intelligence (AI.)

We’re living in the future. Is it a future we want?

Vehicle Telematics

What data is your system collecting?

The original mandate for electronic logging devices was to track hours of service (HOS) – when truckers were driving and when they were off-duty. The E-logs were to directly connect with the truck engine to track driving time and be able to transmit data immediately for traffic stops. It didn’t take long for ELD manufacturers to develop extras on top of the basics. They could track driving habits, fuel consumption, and even potential engine issues. The data could be analyzed to determine how to be more efficient and profitable.

Once the data was assessed, new instructions could be given to the drivers to save time and money.

This cycle is designed to constantly improve the shipping industry.

And the people collecting the data could sell it.

Secure Data

If you’re a trucker, you know how important it is to secure your load. In the same way, we think securing your data is critical. When a trucker is signed on with a trucking company or leasing a rig, they may be required to use certain equipment as part of the contract. In that case, there’s no way to control the use of the driver’s data.

If that’s a concern to you, look at the ELD contract you have. Is the data protected? Are they able to sell it? Are they analyzing it? Does that matter to you?

We don’t want to assume that this is entirely a bad thing. Analyzing data to make better decisions isn’t bad. Maybe you don’t mind if your data is used and sold.

We at TruckingOffice are not analyzing or selling your truck data. But we think you should certainly analyze it yourself.

Trucker Stats™ Analysis

When a truck driver uses TruckingOffice PRO, there are options for data analysis that can turn a trucking company around.

For example, successful truckers know their cost per mile. It’s a simple metric to know if taking a load will cost the trucker to haul it – or if they’ll make money with it.

But it’s not the only metric that a trucker can use. Tracking miles per gallon might show an engine issue. Tracking expenses may produce insight in how to cut costs.

But my ELD doesn’t track those! you may say.

No, an ELD doesn’t track expenses or fuel usage. That requires a full trucking management software program.

That’s the power of TruckingOffice PRO and ELD together. The integrated system of

• accounting software
• maintenance management
• expense tracking
• ELD records

produces data that can be analyzed to produce those same benefits of efficiency and profitability. Using Trucker Stat™ reports, a small fleet manager or an independent owner-operator can determine the best loads, routes, and rates for their businesses.

TruckingOffice PRO and TruckingOffice ELD have been integrated for years to help truckers build their trucking companies. Is it time for your trucking business to look deeper at your own telematics and discover the factors that can make your business better?

Telematics FAQ

What is telematics in trucking?

Telematics is the combination of GPS tracking, cellular communication, and AI-powered data analysis working together in one system. In trucking, telematics builds on ELD data so fleet managers and owner-operators can spot trends and make better routing and load-management decisions.

What data does a truck telematics system collect?

ELDs were originally mandated to track hours of service (HOS) by connecting directly to the truck engine. Manufacturers then added extras: driving habits, fuel consumption, and even potential engine issues. That data can be analyzed to make a trucking operation more efficient and profitable.

Does an ELD track expenses or fuel costs?

No. An ELD by itself does not track expenses or fuel usage. That requires a full trucking management software system with accounting, maintenance management, and expense tracking — which is why an integrated TMS and ELD gives truckers the complete picture.

Can telematics providers sell my truck data?

Some companies that collect telematics data can sell it. If that concerns you, review your ELD contract to see whether your data is protected. TruckingOffice does not analyze or sell your truck data.