ELDs are better known as electronic logging devices. They can also be easily attached to fleets to ensure that the service hours and the driving times are recorded. Real-time data about the engine, the distance covered, and the ELD also captures the movement. Read on as we dive into more information about ELDs.

The trucking industry has already implemented strict policy within the United States when it comes to electronic logging. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, all fleets are to be fitted with these devices. The mandate further indicates that drivers and carriers who manually take note of their duty status should switch to the electronic system.

What Is An Electronic Logging Device?

ELDs allow truck drivers to track the number of hours that they worked for. In the case of CDL drivers who are required to keep records, an ELD must be used to ensure that they follow the HOS rules. See the best ELD devices for owner operator to get a better idea of how these rules work and what independent drivers need to do. In addition, the rules add several performance and technical specs that define the ideal features of the device.

ELDs are required to do the following:

• Connect to the engine of the truck to record it in motion
• Drivers should be able to log in as On-duty, Off-duty, and On-duty not driving is need be
• Should display the duty status graphically to ensure that drivers are able to see hours each day
• Data should be provided in a standard that can be easily transmitted in several ways to law enforcement
• Devices should be certified to ensure that it meets the appropriate regulations

How Much Does An ELD Cost?

Electronic logging devices come in a range from $165 to $832. However, the most popular logging device is priced in the middle at just $495 per truck. Even though the prices haven’t dropped, providers offer a new and improved method to manage fleets in a cost-effective way.

As a result, ELDs are able to provide greater savings since tons of fleets benefit in an economical manner. Both carriers and drivers are able to save money in the long run. With several advancements in the industry, ELDS can now easily run with tablets and smartphones. This removes the issue of start-up costs and bugs within the older hardware.

So, no matter the size of the business, there is always a profitable investment to make. As previously mentioned, ELDs provide benefits that allow truckers to maximize on the all new data analytics and mobile applications at any time from anywhere.

How Does ELD Save Truck Drivers Money And Time?
According to several credible assumptions, ELDs are able to save each driver on a yearly basis. This can be seen as follows:

• Clerk Filing RODS - $120
• Driver Filling RODS - $487
• Driver Submitting RODS - $56
• Paper drier log books - $42

The above result in a total of $705 each year, which can be saved without the hassle of paperwork. It should be noted that this figure is just an estimate on how much can be saved. By not having to complete RODS anymore, drivers are now also able to save time.

Each driver roughly spends up to 19 hours per year filling these out. In the case of commercial drivers, more time is actually taken to fill these out. Hence, drivers are able to save up to a whopping 20 hours extra each year.

Drivers also now have some more time with each stop daily since E-logs support rounding up to the closest minute. This removes the previous 15-minute period that was needed by paper logbooks. ELDs also provide the following for fleets:

• Decrease In Fuel Costs - Excessive speeding and truck idle times can now be monitored. This allows fleets to offer an incentive program for drivers who work harder to save and maximize on fuel efficiency.
• Downtime Is Reduced - System users have reported a 15% reduction in the amount of downtime reported. This means that drivers are now improving how they use these vehicles.
• Crash Rates Are Significantly Reduced - According to data received from the Truck and Bus Safety division, E-log drivers had a much lower crash rate and an even surprising lower preventable rate. This was compared heavily to those running without E-logs.
• Regulatory Compliances Are Now Simpler - In an effort to keep up with the ELD rules, other regulations can also be easily followed. The biggest one being inspections reports.

Takeaway

As we conclude, we have just looked at what ELDs do for truck drivers. ELDs are great for saving on the cost of paperwork. It can even save up to 20 hours each year for drivers since they can now work closer to the minute and manage their time better. So, if you’re managing a trucking fleet, be sure to get them fitted with ELDs because you’ll save more than just money and time!

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.