The ELD Mandate is a federal regulation that requires commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators to use compliant electronic logging devices. The regulation is intended to improve driver safety, enforce Hours of Service (HOS) rules, and reduce road accidents.
Even carriers exempt from the requirement must consider installing an ELD to avoid penalties and fines. The earlier these systems are installed, the better.
What is the ELD Mandate?
Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are now required for commercial truck drivers to accurately track their service hours under the FMCSA’s ELD Mandate. It improves driver safety, enforces Hours of Service rules, and reduces road accidents.
Previously, drivers had to fill out paper logs to keep track of their HOS, which needed to be more labor-intensive and accurate. ELD device are tamper-proof and automatically record driving hours to eliminate the need for manual entry. It saves freight companies thousands of dollars in overhead costs.
The ELD mandate is in effect as of December 2017, and all for-hire and private fleets must have compliant ELDs by this date. However, those who had approved AOBRDs may continue to use them until December 2019. These AOBRDs must be replaced with certified ELDs after that date.
How will the ELD Mandate affect my fleet?
The ELD mandate affects all fleets that use automatic onboard recording devices (AOBRDs) or electronic logging devices (ELDs). Drivers hauling legally labeled hazmat loads must maintain records of duty status (RODS).
The new rule makes it mandatory for CMV operators to use self-certified ELDs, ensuring their HOS data meets FMCSA regulations. It will also help reduce driver fatigue, enforce Hours of Service laws, and minimize road accidents.
While the ELD Mandate may feel like a nuisance to some truckers, it’s essential to improving overall fleet safety and efficiency. With the approaching December 18 phase 2 compliance deadline, ensuring your fleet has a reliable ELD solution that meets the new requirements is essential. In addition to avoiding citations from enforcement, fleets using advanced ELD systems will see significant savings on fuel costs and paperwork.
What are the requirements for ELDs?
The new ELD Final Rule requires carriers and drivers to install FMCSA-registered electronic logging devices (ELDs) in their vehicles. ELDs are tablet-based devices that record driving time, vehicle location, and mileage engine data.
They also feature a touchscreen to allow drivers to edit their logs easily. Whenever a driver or manager edits their log, the device must prompt them to confirm the change to verify it as correct.
Businesses not complying with new regulations risk severe penalties and potential vehicle impoundment. In addition, non-compliant businesses will see their CSA scores (Compliance, Safety, and Accountability) negatively affected. Getting an ELD now will save you money and headaches down the road. Investing in one will improve your fleet’s safety and productivity.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Truck drivers and carriers must use electronic logging devices to record their driving time under the DOT’s ELD regulation. These devices can help drivers stay safe and get the rest they need. However, non-compliance with the rule can result in severe penalties for truckers and carriers.
The ELD Mandate was enacted by the US Congress in 2012 through the MAP-21 Act (Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century). It requires that the FMCSA write and implement a regulation requiring motor carriers to use ELDs.
Fleet managers must familiarize themselves with the ELD rules and regulations. It will allow them to prepare their trucks and drivers ahead of time. And while there are a lot of details involved, there are also many benefits of implementing an ELD system that can save you time and money.
What are the benefits of ELDs?
ELDs provide a wide variety of benefits that can improve fleet efficiency. Most importantly, they help drivers stay on schedule and avoid violating Hours of Service regulations. It can save lives and prevent injuries on the road.
An advanced ELD solution can also automate IFTA fuel tax reporting and provide real-time visibility into driver locations. It can eliminate the need for dispatchers to call drivers for check-ins and allow drivers to continue driving safely without distractions.
Lastly, ELDs can also help minimize risk by providing insurance companies with more accurate and consistent data. It can reduce insurance premiums for carriers and make it easier to prove driver compliance in the event of an accident.
