Electronic logbooks are becoming a necessary part of trucker life. The FMCSA has mandated them in large trucks used for commercial purposes, such as tractor-trailer combinations. The new electronic logbook system helps trucking companies comply with federal rules on hours of service and rest.
While EOBRs have a lot of potential benefits, they also come with a few drawbacks. First of all, they don’t control a truck’s speed or lane changes. They do, however, tell carriers when drivers are driving beyond their hours. This can make it easier for carriers to schedule drivers to work more efficiently. In addition, EOBRs give drivers a countdown timer so they know how much time they have to drive each day.
EOBRs are also designed to be mobile, which makes them convenient for truck drivers. They can be accessed from the truck driver’s laptop or smart phone, which makes entry and data entry much easier. They are also FMCSA-compliant, meaning they record driving time automatically. In addition, some ELDs have an option for an automatic setting that sets the status to driving when the truck reaches five mph. Annotations can be added to the log to explain unusual circumstances.
How Much is a ELD For a Truck?
A common question is, “How Much is an Electronic Logbook for a truck?” The answer depends on several factors. For starters, ELDs are expensive. The government has estimated that each device will cost up to $1,675 per truck, and this price doesn’t include the $40 monthly connection fee or out-of-warranty maintenance costs. A second factor that can affect cost is whether the ELD is easy to install.
Many truckers are wondering how much an ELD costs and which elog app to buy. They are often concerned that the price is prohibitive and that the app won’t meet the FMCSA’s requirements. However, there are many free ELD apps that will display recorded information for safety inspectors and drivers.
Additionally, some truckers prefer an ELD because it frees up valuable time to focus on driving. Compliant ELDs also report potential violations to the FMCSA, which motivates truck drivers to be more efficient and safer. ELDs also help the FMCSA generate revenue by increasing fines.
Who is Required to Have ELD in Trucks?
The new ELD rule took effect on February 16, 2016 and gives trucking companies two years to comply with the new rules. However, many companies and industry groups have opposed the rule. If you’re wondering who’s required to use an ELD, here’s what you need to know about the new regulation.
First of all, make sure your ELD is approved by the FMCSA. It must be capable of transferring data via Bluetooth and wirelessly. You also want to make sure your drivers know how to use the device while on the road. You should be able to audit each driver’s hours-of-service logs to track any false entries and other errors of omission.
An ELD is required by law for most commercial drivers, but there are exceptions. For example, CDL short-haul drivers are exempt from the requirement because they’re only using the truck for daily work and returning it to the owner-operator at the end of the day. Additionally, box trucks, which are smaller than semi-trucks, are also exempt from the mandate. However, this exemption isn’t as broad as it sounds.
Can You Use an ELD on Your Phone?
The question of “Can You Use an Electronic Logbook on Your Phone?” is not as simple as it may seem. While the FMCSA has approved ELD devices, not all of them work well with mobile devices. As such, you must be sure that the ELD device you are purchasing is certified and registered with the FMCSA. To ensure that you get the right ELD for your needs, contact an ELD vendor for a free trial.
Some companies claim to have an Electronic Logbook App, but not all of them work. Others require additional in-cab hardware, which is expensive, while others don’t have real-time GPS tracking. Also, some vendors add software features that aren’t included in their basic version. However, the Motive App is free and easy to install.
An ELD will allow you to keep track of many different data fields, which are important for fleet management. The device will record important engine data and schedule preventative maintenance. It will also help you respond quickly to reactive repairs. In addition, an ELD will allow you to create electronic driver vehicle inspection reports, which reduces paperwork in the back office. The ELD will also help protect innocent drivers from false claims.
Do Local Drivers Need Electronic Logs?
When it comes to ELDs, local drivers often have a few different options. Some devices require additional in-cab hardware while others can be easily installed by local drivers themselves. Some ELDs also come with real-time GPS tracking. While there are several benefits to using an ELD, the cost and ease of installation should be taken into consideration.
In addition to safety, the ELDs give drivers greater responsibility and control over their records. In addition, drivers are no longer subject to harassment from back office personnel. Drivers will be able to edit their own e-logs and can reject changes made by the back office if they feel it is necessary.
Drivers who frequently drive less than 100 air miles per day or aren’t subject to the ELD rule aren’t required to install an ELD. However, they must install an ELD if they need paper logs for more than eight days in a 30 day period.
Do You Have to Pay a Monthly Fee For ELD?
When choosing an ELD, the upfront cost isn’t the only consideration. Monthly fees can add up, too. Most ELDs require subscriptions to use their full features, so free options aren’t ideal for large fleets. However, they can help small fleets and owner-operators on a tight budget save money on monthly costs.
Another factor to consider is the DOT’s audit protocol. This allows for standardized information to be submitted and saved. This reduces audit time. Another drawback is that some truckers don’t like the constant monitoring that ELDs require. Drivers often complain about feeling monitored by the ELD, but the fact is that it’s only used to log hours when the truck is at rest.
While ELDs have been in the trucking industry for nearly 20 years, they didn’t become mandatory until 2012, when Congress passed the mandate. While many rumors were circulated that small trucking concerns wouldn’t have to use ELDs, the reality is that every commercial trucking operation must implement them in order to comply with the mandate. The new ELDs save companies money on each truck.
How Long Does It Take to Get an ELD?
Before purchasing an ELD solution, it is important to consider what features are most important to you. First of all, you should make sure that your trucker fleet is the right fit for an ELD. You need to know what type of truck you have, as well as its make, model, and production year. This information is necessary for pricing and solution development. Second, it is crucial that you have buy-in and direction from the company that owns the trucks. You can do this by asking them what they want from the ELog solution, as most of the add-on features will require you to pay a little extra.
Third, you need to have a compliant ELD system. Most of these systems come with rules to automatically audit the system. Some systems even make it easy to indicate special HOS rules, such as the oilfield exemption. You also need to have a device for the vehicle. Some older trucks are exempt from the ELD requirement, but it may be difficult to install it on them.
Do Owner Operators Have to Use ELD?
The Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA) requires commercial truck owners to install an Electronic Logbook Device (ELD). ELDs are devices that record hours of service. They help prevent fatigue and work-related accidents. The ELD helps ensure that a truck driver is HOS-compliant. Federal laws limit the number of hours a trucker can work. Violations of these laws can result in serious consequences.
ELDs can be handheld or wireless. They can also be connected to a truck’s ECM. To comply with the ELD Mandate, truck drivers must use an ELD that is compatible with FMCSA standards. Many devices can serve as an ELD, including tablets and smartphones. The key is to choose one that can connect to a truck. Dedicated e-logs can also be used to meet the ELD Mandate requirements.
Before the ELD Mandate became law, truck drivers were required to use paper logbooks. But, as regulations changed and technology became more advanced, paper logbooks were becoming outdated. With the introduction of electronic logbooks, truck drivers are able to track their hours, improve safety, and comply with federal safety laws.
Learn More Here:
3.) Best Trucks
