ELD devices connect to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and automatically record driving time to ensure compliance with FMCSA’s hours-of-service rules. They also track informative data that boost fleet safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Look for a solution that is easy to install and use. A steep learning curve can frustrate drivers and stifle adoption.

They Help You Monitor Driver Activity and Rest Periods

ELD devices help fleet managers track driver activity and rest periods to ensure compliance with the FMCSA’s ELD mandate and hours of service regulations. They also keep drivers safe, boost overall fleet productivity, and reduce costs by eliminating the need for paper logs.

In addition, modern ELDs have built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes that detect harsh driving events, such as hard braking and severe turns. Dispatchers can view this information to coach drivers and improve safety practices.

When choosing an ELD device, consider regulatory compliance, ease of use, and cost. Some ELDs require drivers to use proprietary accessory devices that can add up quickly. In contrast, other FMCSA-approved devices are available for your drivers’ smartphones, making them cheaper and more flexible. Also, check that the ELD is reliable and offers features like GPS tracking. That way, dispatchers can get real-time location data and ensure drivers stay on schedule while minimizing overtime costs.

They Help You Prevent Driver Fatigue

In addition to preventing driver fatigue, ELDs enable truckers to maintain compliance with hours-of-service regulations. An ELD synchronizes with the vehicle engine to automatically record and transfer data, making it easier for drivers to demonstrate compliance and share records with safety officials.

A compliant ELD paired with fleet telematics simplifies work processes like payroll and maintenance by automating HOS, DVIR, and IFTA reporting. This frees up time and resources for other essential tasks.

ELDs can also help reduce fuel costs by identifying drivers or loading docks that idle too much time. Incentives can then be implemented to cut down on fuel consumption and expenses.

To benefit most from your ELD solution, choose a rugged device with an intuitive user interface that requires minimal training for drivers and dispatchers. A reliable provider should also offer prompt customer support to address your team’s questions or concerns during the transition period.

They Help You Stay Compliant

ELDs connect directly to a vehicle’s engine and use GPS technology to track driving time for accurate Hours of Service (HOS). They also eliminate the need for drivers to maintain paper logbooks, which saves companies time on administrative tasks.

The best ELD devices are easy to install and operate, minimizing training hours and costs. Look for a device with real-time tracking and automatic logging that can integrate with fleet management systems.

Consider an ELD solution that offers speed-based locking, which blocks certain apps on drivers’ mobile devices when they exceed the vehicle’s set speed limit. This helps prevent distracted driving and makes roads safer for everyone. Engine performance insights are another valuable feature that allows you to identify impending mechanical issues before they cause costly breakdowns. You can then schedule repairs and avoid sidelining vehicles in the garage for a lengthy period.

They Help You Save Money

Using an ELD eliminates the cost of paper logs and helps save drivers time by eliminating paperwork. Combined with diagnostic vehicle data from telematics solutions, get a clear picture of vehicle health and can schedule maintenance accordingly. Having reliable HOS data also helps reduce the risk of costly federal audits by making it easier to prove compliance.

The FMCSA estimates that truck drivers will save 19 hours each year by not having to fill out paperwork manually. In addition, ELD devices help expedite roadside inspections, saving drivers even more time on administrative tasks.

Another way ELDs can save money for your business is by reducing fuel costs. The technology can also improve vehicle uptime by monitoring engine fault codes to help identify issues that could affect performance or lead to costly repairs. When selecting an ELD provider, consider flexible pricing options and easy installation. Some vendors require proprietary in-cab hardware, while others let drivers “bring their device” with a tablet or smartphone.