What is an ELD (electronic logging device)?

An electronic logging device (ELD) is a hardware device that connects to a commercial vehicle’s engine. It captures vital data such as engine hours, miles driven and location information using GPS technology. By replacing traditional paper logs, ELDs provide the following:

• Accurate and tamper-proof records
• Reduces administrative burdens
• Simplifies compliance within the trucking industry.

These devices allow the driver to concentrate on safe driving, with the ELD automatically recording information such as total miles driven and engine hours.

When it comes to data recording, ELDs go beyond just tracking hours of service. They capture a wide range of information, including:

• Date;
• Time;
• Location of the vehicle;
• Engine power status;
• User authentication;
• Miles driven.

Additionally, ELDs record any changes in the driver’s duty status, such as when they switch between driving, on-duty, not driving, off-duty or sleeper berth. This comprehensive data collection provides a detailed overview of a driver’s activities, helping to simplify compliance and boost safety.

Before ELDs, the trucking industry used Automatic Onboard Recording Devices (AOBRDs) to record hours of service. While similar in purpose, ELDs have more advanced capabilities and must meet specific technical standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

ELDs have a more accurate and precise recording of driving time, and they are designed to transmit data electronically, allowing for real-time monitoring and easier inspection by authorities. As of December 18, 2017, motor carriers and drivers under the ELD rule must start using either an ELD or a “grandfathered AOBRD”. The difference between ELDs and AOBRDs is important to understand to comply with the ELD rule.

To ensure compliance with hours-of-service regulations, it’s essential to understand who falls under the mandate of using an ELD.

• Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers: Most CMV drivers are mandated to use ELDs to record their service hours. This includes drivers operating vehicles that weigh more than 10,000 pounds, transporting hazardous materials, designed for more than eight passengers (including the driver) for compensation, or 16 (including the driver) not for compensation.
• Interstate drivers:  If a CMV driver engages in interstate commerce, meaning their activities involve transporting goods or passengers across state lines, they are generally required to use ELDs.

It’s crucial to note that certain exemptions exist which might exempt specific drivers from utilizing ELDs. Exemptions include short-haul drivers operating within a particular radius, drivers utilizing paper Record of Duty Status (RODS), and drivers operating vehicles manufactured before the year 2000.

ELDs offer numerous benefits for fleet managers, streamlining operations and simplifying compliance. Here are some key advantages:

• Increased accuracy: ELDs provide precise and automated tracking of driver hours, reducing the risk of errors and false reporting.
• Real-time monitoring: Fleet managers can access real-time data on driver activities, allowing them to optimize routes, plan better schedules, and simplify compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
• Boosted safety: By monitoring driver behavior and hours of service, ELDs promote road safety, reducing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
• Enhanced efficiency: ELDs automate time-consuming tasks associated with manual logbooks, enabling fleet managers to focus on other critical aspects of their operations.
• Simplified inspections: ELDs make it easier for fleet managers to generate accurate and tamper-proof records, simplifying the process of regulatory compliance and inspections.

By investing in an electronic logging device and GPS fleet tracking software, fleet managers can boost safety, increase efficiency and simplify compliance with regulations.