As the trucking industry moves towards more automation (thanks, Elon), more drivers are having to understand what an Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is and how it works. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of an ELD along with the benefits they offer both the drivers and carriers. By the end of this guide, you’ll be an ELD expert with a clear understanding of how an ELD works and how it can benefit you as a driver.

What is an ELD?

An ELD (Electronic Logging Device) consists of two things.

First is an advanced piece of technology called an Interpreter. The interpreter connects to a vehicle’s ECM via the 9 Pin port and automatically records data about the vehicle’s engine. This data includes information such as Odometer, Engine Hours, Ignition On/Off, RPM and Speed. This data is used to help track a driver’s Hours of Service (HOS), which is the amount of time a driver can spend behind the wheel in a day.

The second component of an ELD is the Hours of Service (HOS) Application that is downloaded to your Tablet or Smartphone.

How does an ELD work?

An ELD collects data from the truck’s computer via the interpreter that is connected to the vehicle’s engine via the vehicle’s diagnostic port. This data is then passed along to the HOS Application that was downloaded to your Tablet/Smart Phone. The HOS App is then used by the driver to record On Duty, Driving, Off Duty and Sleeper Berth activity, then compiles the data from the truck’s computer to give a comprehensive review of the driver’s Hour of Service. This data is then stored on the ELD Admin Portal that can be accessed by the driver’s administrative assistant or carrier via a web-based portal to assist the driver and review their logs and driver vehicle inspection reports.

Who Needs to Use an ELD?

As of December 18, 2017, all commercial drivers who are required to maintain paper logs must use an ELD. This includes drivers currently having Record of Duty Status (RODS) who are required to maintain HOS logs, as well as those who are required to maintain driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIR).

However, there are a few exceptions to this ELD rule. Drivers who use paper logs for less than 8 days in a 30-day period are not required to use an ELD. Additionally, drivers who operate vehicles manufactured before 2000 (with no engine control module (ECM)) are not required to use an ELD. And, drivers of agricultural commodities and livestock are also not required to use an ELD, as long as they meet certain criteria.

When did ELDs become mandatory?

ELDs became mandatory for most commercial drivers on December 18, 2017. However, there is a grace period for drivers who had already moved from paper logs to an AOBRD (Automatic On-Board Recording Device). Drivers who were using an AOBRD on December 18, 2017, had until December 16, 2019, to switch to an ELD.

What are the benefits of using an ELD?

An ELD offers a number of benefits for both drivers and carriers. Some of the most notable benefits include:

1. Reduced paperwork

As any truck driver knows, the paperwork associated with hauling loads can be incredibly complex and time-consuming. From logs and manifests to IFTA reports and trip permits, there’s a lot of information that needs to be accurately documented. An ELD can simplify the process by automatically tracking a driver’s hours and activities.

This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors and penalties. In addition, many ELDs come with built-in features that help to streamline other aspects of the job, such as route planning and mileage tracking. As a result, an ELD can be a valuable tool for reducing paperwork and improving efficiency.

2. Improved compliance with Hours-of-Service regulations

The ELD Mandate requires commercial drivers to use an ELD in their truck when driving for interstate commerce. The ELD syncs with the vehicle engine to automatically record driver hours-of-service (HOS) compliance data. This data is used to create HOS reports that can be shared with safety personnel and fleet managers.

3. Improved safety

Any driver knows that safety is the number one priority when behind the wheel. Distractions, whether from other passengers, a cell phone, or other electronic devices, can quickly lead to an accident. But more importantly an ELD helps to improve safety by automatically tracking a driver’s hours of service, ensuring that they stay within the legal limit. This not only helps to prevent accidents caused by fatigue but also helps to reduce the number of paper logs a driver may have, which can be easily lost or tampered with.

In addition, an ELD will provide a clear record of a driver’s activities, making it easier to investigate an accident and hold drivers accountable for their actions. As a result, the use of an ELD is an essential part of improving safety on our roads.

4. Better fleet management

Any fleet manager knows that there are a lot of moving parts to keep track of from commercial motor vehicle maintenance and driver schedules to route optimization and customer satisfaction, there’s a lot to juggle. An ELD can help take some of the guesswork out of fleet management by automatically tracking hours of service and vehicle location providing managers a clear picture of how their fleet is performing. This can help with things like reducing fuel costs, avoiding fines for HOS violations, and improving customer service. In short, an ELD is a valuable tool for any fleet manager who wants to run a more efficient and effective operation.

5. Reduced fuel costs

Many trucking fleets have seen a reduction in fuel costs by using an ELD, this technology automatically records a driver’s Hours of Service (HOS).

By accurately tracking HOS, ELDs help to ensure that drivers stay within the legal limit of 11 hours of driving time per day. This not only reduces the risk of fines and penalties but also helps to improve fleet efficiency. By ensuring that drivers are not on the road more than they should be, fleets can optimize their routes and cut down on wasted fuel.

In addition, there are ELDs that can be used to track a number of other factors that affect fuel consumption, such as vehicle idling and excessive acceleration. By monitoring these trends, fleets can make changes to their operations that lead to significant reductions in fuel costs.

6. Improved customer service

The use of an ELD can help improve customer service in a number of ways. First, by accurately tracking hours of service, an ELD can help to ensure that drivers arrive at their destination on time. This not only reduces the chance of late deliveries but also helps to build trust with customers.

In addition, there are some ELDs that have advanced GPS technology that makes it easy for fleet managers to keep track of their vehicles and drivers. This information can be used to provide customers with real-time updates on the status of their shipment. As a result, customers can have peace of mind knowing that their goods are safe and on track to arrive on time.

Finally, ELDs can help fleets avoid costly fines and penalties. By ensuring that drivers stay within the legal limit of 11 hours of driving time per day, ELDs help to avoid HOS violations. This not only saves money but also helps to improve a fleet’s reputation.

7. Avoiding fines and penalties

The use of an ELD device can help fleets avoid costly fines and penalties. This technology automatically records a driver’s hours of service (HOS), which eliminates the need for paper logs.

By accurately tracking HOS, ELDs help to ensure that drivers stay within the legal limit of 11 hours of driving time per day. This not only reduces the risk of fines and penalties but also helps to improve fleet efficiency. By ensuring that drivers are not on the road more than they should be, fleets can optimize their routes and cut down on wasted fuel.

8. Increased compliance

The use of an ELD has been shown to increase compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. In a recent study, commercial drivers who used an ELD were found to be less likely to exceed the HOS limit than those who used paper logs.

The researchers attributed this difference to the fact that ELDs automatically record HOS information, making it more difficult for drivers to falsify driver records. This increased compliance is beneficial not only for the truck drivers themselves but also for the companies that employ them. By ensuring that their drivers are following HOS regulations, companies can avoid costly penalties and improve driver safety records.

Previously, drivers would keep paper logs of their hours-of-service (HOS), this was a time-consuming and error-prone process. The ELD Mandate aims to improve compliance with HOS regulations by eliminating paper logs and providing an automated way to track and manage driver hours.

How much does an ELD cost?

The cost of an ELD can vary depending on the features and capabilities that you need. Most ELDs start at around $495 per truck, more advanced models can cost upwards of $1,000, and if you’re just looking for the minimum requirements, you can get started with a Basic ELD Subscription at only $15 per month.

When deciding on your ELD provider, it is crucial to select an ELD that meets the specific needs of your fleet. For example, if you’re an owner operator or have a small fleet of trucks, you may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a more expensive ELD. You might instead need an ELD provider who offers more personalized driver support like Haulin’ Ass ELD. Conversely, if you have a large fleet of trucks, you’ll want to choose an ELD like.Motive that has all the specific features and capabilities that you need to manage your fleet effectively

How Do I Choose the Best ELD for My Fleet?

Choosing the best ELD for owner-operators or small fleets can be a daunting task. There are a lot of factors to consider, such as:

• How many vehicles are in your fleet? Consider both the number of vehicles and the types of commercial motor vehicles. When it comes to ELDs, one size does not fit all. If you have 100+ trucks in motion with an in-house admin team, you may want to consider a company that scale with you. And a small fleet or owner-operator would be better served with an ELD provider that focuses on small fleets.

• What are your compliance needs? Do you need an ELD that is compliant with driving Hours of Service regulations? If so, you’ll need to make sure the ELD you choose is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

• What are your budget and deployment timelines? ELDs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Make sure you have a realistic budget in mind, as well as a timeline for deployment that works for your team.

• What are your data and connectivity needs? Do you need real-time data or can batch reporting work for your fleet? Do you need cellular connectivity? Satellite? Both?

• What are your driver’s needs? Do you need an ELD that is easy to use and understand? Make sure you choose a user-friendly ELD that will work for your drivers, not against them.

• What are your maintenance needs? Do you need an ELD that is easy to troubleshoot and maintain? Consider both the up-front cost of the ELD and the ongoing costs of maintenance and support.

These are just a few of the factors to consider when choosing an ELD for your fleet. The best way to make sure you choose the right ELD is to partner with a reputable provider who can help you assess your needs and find the right solution for your fleet.

Where to Find the Best ELD Providers?

There are many lists out there that detail the differences in top-quality ELDs that are compliant with Hours-of-Service regulations. Your best bet is to understand your needs and choose the ELD provider that focuses on the same things you care about. Are you a large fleet that needs scalability? An owner-operator that needs help cleaning their logbooks and driver support? Once you know your focus points, give a few companies a call and be honest with them on what those needs are.

The Bottom Line

To sum it all up, an ELD is a type of electronic logging device that helps commercial drivers track and manage their hours-of-service (HOS) compliance data. An ELD is required for interstate commerce which aims to improve compliance with HOS regulations.

ELDs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the features and capabilities that you need. When choosing an ELD for your fleet, it’s important to partner with a provider that makes the most sense for you and provides a solution for your specific needs.

Remember, the best way to ensure compliance with the ELD Mandate is to choose an ELD that is FMCSA certified and again, that meets the needs of your fleet.