The switch from paperwork to computer work can sometimes prove to be confusing or frustrating. Some people find that paperwork is easier and more reliable. They may think that there is no reason for a switch. However, when it comes to truck driving, the switch from paperwork to an ELD has saved lives.

In 2012, the United States Congress passed a bill called the “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century.” This bill included the requirement by the FMCSA to come up with a rule that mandated the use of ELDs by commercial drivers. By 2017, trucks had implemented the ELD. Trucks that had already had the ELD had up to 2019 to ensure their ELDs were in working order and up to specifications.

Why an ELD Mandate? 

The U.S Department of Transportation has revealed that 570 million dollars have been saved annually in crash reductions. 2.4 billion dollars have been saved in paperwork, and 1.2 billion dollars have been saved in net annual savings because of the ELD. Unlike paper logbooks, the electronic logging device is extremely accurate in the automatic data it records. An ELD also makes the transfer of information with officials extremely simple. There is no worry about loads of paperwork when the electronic logging device takes care of everything for a driver.

One of the most important aspects of an electronic logging device is that it promotes road safety. Doctors have revealed that driver fatigue is the biggest reason for vehicle crashes. A driver who is overworked and tired will have an encumbered reaction time. Therefore, they cannot be trusted to stay wary of any potential accidents. A driver could also easily fall asleep on the road. Subsequently, their large truck can veer into traffic or off the road.

According to the U.S Department of Transportation, the ELD is the reason why 1844 crashes are avoided each year. It is also the reason for 562 avoided injuries per year. Additionally, 26 lives are saved each year by the ELD. By putting a more critical eye on companies and their drivers, the ELD makes sure that drivers get the breaks that they deserve. This keeps them rested and alert.

How Does the ELD Work?

An electronic logging device works with a truck’s engine to automatically record when a driver is off duty and on duty. It transfers the number of hours they have worked to a safety official. By synchronizing with the truck’s CMV engine, the ELD can tell an official about engine power status, vehicle motion status, miles driven, engine hours, a driver’s identification, and duty status.

The driver reviews the records created by the ELD and is free to edit most aspects of it. However, the amount of time driven is not editable. When requested, the driver can securely transfer all of this data to a safety official. They will review this data for any violations. With companies like TruckingOffice, an ELD can all be maintained from a device with Bluetooth capabilities, making it easy to maneuver.

Why an Electronic Logging Device is Important and Necessary

The biggest question for any trucking company is where they should get their ELD. With TruckingOffice, you can purchase a complete ELD system, VID, and mobile application for $20 a month. For $240 a year, not only do you get a complete ELD system for once price, but you get a free VID. You can implement this ELD (as well as VID) in twelve easy steps. You can maintain it from a Bluetooth compliant device.

How to Choose the Best ELD for Your Trucking Business

When evaluating an ELD, you may be tempted to focus on the features and costs more than anything else. However, an ELD is only as good as the provider and customer support that comes with it. In a way, choosing an ELD means you are also choosing a business partner. So, here are some things to look for in a reliable ELD and provider:

What to look for when choosing an ELD device:

  1. Is it self-certified? Check FMCSA’s list of registered ELDs.
  2. Will the device work on any type of commercial vehicle?
  3. Is it easy to install, such as a plug-and-play system?
  4. Will the device be easy to operate?
  5. Can it upgrade to grow with your business?
  6. Is it Smartphone or tablet compatible?

> What to know about the provider:

  1. How long has the company been in business?
  2. How many customer service employees and tech support?
  3. Are there customer reviews available?
  4. How strong is their commitment to product development and research?
  5. What are their security policies?
  6. Will the provider ensure that the ELD remains compliant?

An ELD can be life-changing for any trucking company. It ensures that no trucker is being overworked. It also ensures paperwork is accurate and easily transferable. An electronic logging device does not only save time spent on paperwork, but it saves lives.

To simplify choosing an ELD, keep this list of questions handy when you contact us at TruckingOffice.  Ask these and any other questions you may have. We’re confident you’ll like our answers.

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