The ELD Device mandate went into effect of December 2017. In December 2019, it became mandatory for vehicles equipped with AORBD to be upgraded to meet ELD status. In spite of this many truck drivers are struggling to adjust to ELD devices. The transition is even more difficult for drivers that have been off the road for a few years and are just returning to their old line of work.

If you have concerns about these devices, and you want to avoid issues with ELD compliance, you’ll want to keep these simple ELD tips in mind.

Make Sure You Always Change Your Status Right Away

It’s important to develop good habits so that you’ll have fewer issues when using ELD devices. One of the most important things you can do is make sure you’re changing your status immediately.

When you kept paper logs, you had more flexibility about when you updated your log books. With ELD, that’s no longer an option. Whenever you arrive at a new destination, you should immediately go into On-Duty and update your status. Before long, it should feel like second nature to you.

Consistently Update Load Info

Just like you’ll want to update your status right away, you’ll want to make sure that your load info is updated immediately. You’ll need to make an immediate update after picking up a load in order to ensure that this information is on your e-log. Once again, it’s important to remember that you won’t be able to make adjustments later on.

If you pick up a load, and you don’t update your e-log to acknowledge that, you could be hit with a violation. Don’t put yourself in this position. Focus on updating your information as soon as a new load is picked up.

Take The Time To Plan Out Trips

Planning has always been important when you’re on the road, but it’s now more crucial than ever. Take the time to identify several different options for parking ahead of time so that you’ll have options when you need to shut down.

It’s also important to be realistic when estimating arrival times. While you may want to arrive within a certain window of time, you should make sure that the goal time that you set will be easy to achieve. With excellent plans, you’ll have a better experience when you’re on the road.

Log All Border Crossings

Whenever you cross a border, it needs to be logged. Thankfully, you can easily do this under the Clocks tab. All you will need to do is hit the Border button. When you do this, you’ll also be prompted to change your region.

Since logging border crossings only requires a few presses of a button, there’s no excuse for forgetting to take this important step. Even if you’re going to be crossing a border several times in a short window of time, you need to make sure that each and every crossing is properly logged.

Never Try To Game The System

This can be a difficult transition, but you should never try to get around regulations or game the system. It’s important to remember that regulations are in place for a reason. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the requirements associated with ELD devices so that you’ll be able to use them without issue.

You might be tempted to cut corners, but it’s simply not worth the risk. Because of the ELD mandate, you could be penalized for failing to comply with the current regulations. Be aware of the requirements and always fall of them.

Educate Yourself

The more you know about these devices, the fewer problems you’ll have. Now is an ideal time to read up on ELD and e-logs. Find out more about how these devices are designed to promote safety throughout the trucking industry. Take a closer look at the ELD mandate and work to ensure that this transition goes as smoothly as possible.

For many people that once relied on paper logs, switching over to electronic logs can be a challenge. However, if you arm yourself with information, you’ll find that it’s much easier to adjust to using these devices. Keep this advice in mind and you’ll have a smoother experience at all.