The trucking industry has changed immensely over the years. It will likely continue to do so as technology advances. Years ago, everything was done manually from logging man-hours to tracking expenses. Fortunately, technology has made much of this easier to track and manage. This includes using ELD, which stands for Electronic Logging Device.
ELD helps companies record the hours of their drivers. This ensures none of them are on the road for too long. As you probably know, trucking companies must adhere to the hours of service (HOS) law. Furthermore, the somewhat recent ELD mandate is part of this. The primary reason behind this is that driver fatigue seems to be a large cause of accidents. This is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration pushed ELD forward to reduce this number. When it comes to ELD compliance, some companies may worry about what that entails. Fortunately, it is not too difficult to implement the necessary components to be in compliance with the ELD mandate.
ELD Standards
The primary point of the recent regulations is that all CDL drivers must have a Record of Duty. Also, it must be documented with an ELD. This includes a few technical specifications to be met, such as:
- Engine Connection – The ELD must be connected to the engine to let the system record if it is in motion.
- Logging – The ELD must let the driver log in and it will automatically select whether the driver is off duty, on duty, or on duty not driving. This is based on the movement of the vehicle.
- Display – The ELD must display the Record of Duty Status so that the driver can see the hours logged during the day.
- Certified – The system must be properly certified to meet the necessary specifications.
- Standardized Data – The data needs to be transmitted by the device in such a way that it can be easily sent to law enforcement who require it.
ELD Exemptions
While most large trucking operations will be required to be ELD compliant, there are a few exemptions. This includes towaway drivers, drivers not required to have a record of duty status (RODS) logs, drivers that maintain RODS for less than 8 days over a 30 day period and pre-2000 vehicles. Although, some of those who are exempt from the ELD mandate are still adopting these systems because of the benefits that they can provide.
These systems can help to increase efficiency and lower operational costs, as well as provide more visibility over the fleet. Decreased fuel costs is a specific example of the potential benefit. These devices can monitor speeding events and times of excess idling, which companies can use to correct drivers or incentivize reducing these events. As mentioned above, the primary purpose of these devices is to lower the rate of driver fatigue, which in turn will lower crash rates.
The initial investment of ELD may be a concern, but it will have a great return over time. By cutting down on the events mentioned above and by increasing efficiency, ELD systems will eventually pay for themselves. It may be a mandated system, but do not neglect to use it as a benefit to your operations.
Why Choose TruckingOffice ELD System
If you need to implement ELD into your trucking business, look no further than TruckingOffice.
A trucking business needs an electronic logging device that fits their unique needs. However, with the vast number of providers with various features and prices, choosing an ELD can be confusing. We want to help you make an informed choice. So, here’s why TruckingOffice is suitable for your trucking business.
TruckingOffice provides an ELD solution that meets all the criteria of the ELD mandate. TruckingOffice offers a plug-and-play ELD system that can be up and running quickly. Our system allows drivers to use a logbook app on their phone that connects to the primary device in the truck. We offer reasonable pricing for any business to comply with ELD regulations.
Also, it has an easy-to-use dashboard that will help you get started without any headaches.
You can connect to the ELD with your smartphone or laptop through Bluetooth technology. This feature also makes it easy to transfer logbook data. Plus, you can easily add data that you may have failed to enter earlier. This capability is vital because missing entries can result in fines or penalties.
Our ELD also helps streamline dispatching and improve customer service. You’ll know at a glance where your vehicles are at all times. This will aid in assigning loads and letting customers know when their products will arrive.
Our system was designed by a veteran trucker who wanted to make truckers’ jobs easier. We’re excited about our trucking industry products, and you will be, too. Sign up for this 30-day free trial today to discover firsthand why you’re gonna love TruckingOffice. Contact us today with any questions you may have.
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