Several years ago, the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Enhancement Act made the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) mandatory for certain commercial drivers. Specifically, the same drivers that are required to regularly prepare records of duty status (RODS) reports that include hours of service must use an ELD in their vehicles.
With that being said, the ELD must be approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Below, we discuss the ins and outs of the Matrack ELD, one of the most popular logging devices on the market today. Read on to find out what our experts had to say.
How Does the Matrack ELD Work?
The Matrack ELD works much like other electronic logging devices. Once it is attached to a commercial vehicle’s diagnostic port, it syncs up with the CMV’s Engine Control Unit (ECU).
The ECU is essentially the engine’s central computer. The ELD documents records of duty status, hours of service, and other data that is required by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
The Matrack ELD transmits this information to the fleet’s telematics software. This allows fleet managers to closely monitor the hours of service statistics of each driver and generate compliance reports.
Matrack ELD FAQs
Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about the Matrack ELD:
How Do I Install My Matrack ELD Device?
- Installing the Matrack ELD is incredibly simple. First, plug the device into your vehicle port with a 9-pin cable. This must be done before you turn on the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) or open the HOS app. After it is plugged in, fasten the ELD to the dash.
- Next, check for a flashing green LED light, which indicates that the device is on. You should also see a red LED light that is flashing, as well. This lets you know that the GPS is acquiring a location. Once the red LED is solid, then you can move on to step three.
- Now it is time to turn the vehicle on. Check to ensure that the green LED is still flashing after you turn on the CMV. Once the LED turns solid green, the device has been registered and you can open the HOS app.
Do You Have to Pay for the Matrack ELD?
Technically, the Matrack ELD device itself is free. However, you do have to pay for a monthly subscription service to use the device. This service is currently $14.95 per month for a single-vehicle.
Matrack does offer corporate and fleet discounts when you need to outfit a large number of vehicles.
Is There an App for the Matrack ELD?
Yes, there is a mobile app for the Matrack ELD. This app allows users to review RODS and HOS logs. Your drivers can also present logs to DOT inspectors on their phones. This eliminates the need to print out dozens of log sheets!
Does the Matrack ELD Come with GPS?
Yes, the Matrack ELD has a built-in GPS. The GPS offers real-time tracking of single vehicles or your entire fleet. You can also view past location history through their reports.
Is the Matrack ELD DOT Compliant?
While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not certify ELD vendors, the Matrack ELD is compliant with DOT regulations. In addition, the Matrack ELD is self-registered on the FMCSA website.
Performance Factors of the Matrack ELD
The Matrack ELD has loads of features so that it can meet the needs of virtually any trucking company. It includes automatic HOS calculation and provides drivers and fleet coordinators with overage alerts. This is helpful when you want to avoid fines and ensure that drivers are receiving adequate downtime each day.
The Matrack ELD’s other features exceed performance expectations, as well. These features include IFTA reporting designed to save you money and time. The ELD also offers real-time fleet tracking, compliance monitoring, and electronic vehicle inspection reports.
How Has the Matrack ELD Improved?
The current version of the Matrack ELD has significantly improved upon past models. While earlier generations of the ELD were known for their reliability, they only offered a few features. With each new generation, Matrack has added new and robust functionalities.
The current version includes:
- Bluetooth integration
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Loading operation tools
- Driver’s display menu
- Low fuel notifications
- Accident reporting capabilities
With all of these new and improved features, the latest Matrack ELD can be an asset to any fleet.
Best For
During our review, we have found that the Matrack ELD is best for:
- Fleets of all sizes
- Owner-operators
- Companies working on a budget
- Fleets looking to integrate new technologies in a single solution
The Matrack offers a great mix of affordability and features, making it a solid option for fleets of all sizes.
Reliable and Versatile Fleet ELDs Made Right!
If you are looking for a versatile electronic logging device, the Matrack ELD is a great choice. It is jam-packed with features and backed by a reliable company. The best part is that you can have all of these features for just under $15 a month.
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Cost
Matrack ELD includes affordable, upfront pricing. The device itself is free and the monthly subscription is only $14.95. There are no contracts, so you can cancel at any time. All you have to do is send the device(s) back to Matrack after you cancel your service.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
During our review of the Matrack ELD, we identified several major benefits, including:
- IFTA Reporting: Matrack’s International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) reporting capabilities, tracks mileages and other data. This will save you a ton of time and money when it comes time to file your IFTA taxes.
- Advanced Tracking Capabilities: The Matrack ELD gives you the power to track just about anything. You can document accidents, HOS, RODS, and much more. All of these records are automatically uploaded to your database, which means that staff members can review this information anytime and from anywhere.
- Accurate GPS: The GPS on the Matrack ELD is known for its pinpoint accuracy. You can review your drivers’ past position history or get an update on their current location with the push of a button.
- Lifetime Warranty: The Matrack ELD device also includes a lifetime warranty. As long as your subscription is current, Matrack will replace any malfunctioning ELD–no questions asked.
Disadvantages
The drawbacks of the Matrack ELD include:
- Month-to-Month Subscriptions Only: Unfortunately, there are no annual subscription options that you can purchase in order to save money. Instead, you must sign up for the company’s month-to-month subscription, which starts at a reasonable $15 per month per vehicle.
- Takes Time to Navigate Features: One of the things that we love most about the Matrack ELD is all of its features. However, learning to use each of those features will take some time. This is especially true if your fleet coordinators are not tech-savvy.
User Reviews
It still has me logged in as driving constantly since I parked the truck over two weeks ago cancelled the service and sent the equipment. back. Common sense a practical sense of the hours of service rules and software that is usable is not here. It doesn’t exist you won’t get it. Motive Omnitracs and Samsara blow this out of the water. Daily ELD is the same equipment with better software. It works.