Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) have been a sensitive subject since the full implementation of relevant regulations in December 2019. While the safety benefits of this technology are indisputable, it’s fair to say that some drivers have experienced discomfort with the loss of privacy. After all, many of the devices include real-time GPS tracking components, which is a significant change for those accustomed to more independence.
A bigger concern is the perception that productivity will suffer with drivers forced to stay within Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours of service (HOS) as measured by ELDs. The truth is that truckers don't always comply with the regulations, especially when unforeseen factors such as those caused by severe weather delayed or disrupted a trip.
The good news is that after getting acclimated to the devices, the general consensus is that the benefits of ELDs outweigh the challenges. Less paperwork, more safety, and extra support with driving and maintenance issues identification are just a few of the advantages ELDs offer.
Below are the top five reasons to love your ELD as well as some helpful tips for how to optimize the benefits of your ELD.
1. Less Paperwork = More Productivity
Paper logs aren't the worst thing in the world, but when technology has made it possible to complete most tasks with the click of a button, the process of handwriting logs becomes obsolete.
Your ELD does away with notebooks and pencils by automatically recording your hours of service. Better yet, the records are digital, so you don’t have to spend time searching through pages of records and performing manual calculations in case of an inspection.
Some of the more sophisticated ELD models handle other types of tracking, as well. For example, some devices capture the data necessary to file accurate International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) reports and devices that offer the option to complete Driver-Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR) directly through the ELD.
2. Level the Playing Field
The primary goal of ELD technology is to encourage safety. According to the Large Truck Crash Causation Study, fatigue is a factor in at least 13 percent of accidents - and in many cases, drivers are drowsy because they push themselves to work longer and harder to get the job done right. Studies have shown that people who stay awake for 18 straight hours show the same effects of an 0.08 percent blood alcohol concentration (BAC), which is considered legally intoxicated.
Before ELDs, some drivers weren't entirely honest with their logs. They tweaked the numbers to give the appearance of HOS compliance, but they were actually on the road more than was permitted. That put law-abiding drivers who prioritized safety at a disadvantage.
ELDs make it more difficult to falsify records, which levels the playing field for all truckers. When everyone plays by the same rules, safety issues decrease because no one feels pressured to miss out on sleep.
3. Real-Time Tracking
Many truckers are uncomfortable with the idea of GPS tracking, which is a common component of ELDs. However, now that there are mobile devices in every hand, the truth is that everyone is tracked - all the time. The difference between tracking that occurs through mobile device apps and tracking through ELDs is that mobile apps use the data for their own benefit. ELD tracking benefits you.
If you have trouble on the road - a breakdown, crash, or other crisis - dispatchers can pinpoint your location and send help. Real-time tracking also helps dispatch assign loads efficiently, reducing the likelihood you will have to deadhead. They can provide accurate updates to your clients if factors outside your control cause you to be a bit behind schedule.
4. More Data Delivers Lower Costs
ELDs can monitor and track more than your on- and off-road hours. Some models can also collect data that can help you lower expenses. For example, ELDs can show exactly how much time you spend idling. If you aren't happy with the figure and you want to save on fuel, you can use that information to adjust your habits.
Furthermore, some ELDs can be connected to your truck's diagnostic port, so that they can monitor error and maintenance codes. That makes it easy to stay ahead of preventative tasks, and it gives you immediate insight into any issues with the vehicle so you can arrange for repairs quickly. Better still, historical code reports help you to better understand chronic issues, which makes it more likely that you can get repeat problems managed once and for all.
5. Protection Against Liability
Finally, ELDs can keep comprehensive records on driving habits like speed, hard cornering, and sudden stops. That's good news for you if a crash occurs. Your ELD holds evidence that you were driving safely, which could save you a small fortune in fines and other penalties.
Remember, research shows that trucks equipped with ELDs are less likely to be involved in an accident in the first place. Specifically, a study found that the overall crash rate for ELD-equipped vehicles was 11.7 percent lower than peers without ELDs. The preventable crash rate for ELD-equipped vehicles was 5.1 percent lower than peers without ELDs.
Tips for Optimizing ELD Benefits
Even the best technology can cause complications if not used correctly, and ELDs are no exception. The top tip for optimizing ELD benefits is to work with the system rather than around it. You can still keep productivity high while staying in compliance with HOS requirements as measured by your ELD - it just requires some planning.
Start from the end of the trip. What time is the freight expected? Then, work backward to account for breaks, fuel stops, and similar from planned arrival time to your departure time. This strategy makes it simple to fit everything in without any need to exceed Department of Transportation (DOT) limits.
.png)
As a reminder, DOT HOS requirements include:
- No more than 70 hours worked in each eight-day period
- No more than 11 hours on the road per day
- No more than 14 hours without a 10-hour break after coming on-duty
- A minimum 30-minute break within eight hours of driving
- At least ten hours of off-duty time after each workday and before going back on-duty
Finally, the most critical step to ensuring a smooth ELD experience is making it a habit to double-check your entries before finalizing them. Inputting the wrong activity by accident can throw your logs off for days.
Other relevant articles: