Electronic logging device (ELD)

Key takeaways

Definition: An ELD automatically records a driver's driving time and other hours-of-service data, improving accuracy and compliance
How it works: ELDs are connected to a vehicle's engine and track multiple data points, including engine hours and location. FMCSA certification is mandatory.
Types: ELDs come in various types, including hardwired, plug-and-play, smartphone-based, standalone, telematics, engine-connected, fleet management, and satellite-based, each with its pros and cons.
Pros and cons: ELDs enhance record accuracy, efficiency, and safety but can be costly, pose privacy issues, and may have a learning curve.
Explore your options: Companies like Motive and Trimble offer advanced ELD solutions tailored to commercial fleet needs.

How it works

An ELD is connected to the vehicle's engine to record if the engine is running, if the vehicle is moving, miles driven, and duration of engine operation (engine hours). It records date, time, location information, engine hours, vehicle miles, and identification information for the driver, authenticated user, vehicle, and motor carrier.

The ELD you choose must be registered and self-certified through the FMCSA, which can be done online. As the driver or motor carrier, the FMCSA will hold you responsible for ensuring that your equipment is in compliance with the federal government’s mandates.

Any violation of those rules results in penalties like being removed from service for eight hours at a time. The FMCSA keeps track of a safety measurement score, and if it dips too low because of repeated violations, the agency conducts an investigation.

What is the ELD mandate?

The ELD rule, mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), states that commercial drivers who are required to prepare hours-of-service records of duty status (RODS) must use an ELD to record their compliance. This rule is designed to help create a safer work environment for drivers, and make it easier and faster to accurately track, manage, and share RODS data.

The elog mandate took effect on Dec. 18, 2017, and applies to most truck drivers operating in the U.S.

What are ELD exemptions?

While most commercial motor vehicle drivers are required to comply with ELD regulations, here are examples of exemptions:

Drivers who use paper records of duty status (RODS) for eight days or fewer during any 30-day period
Drivers who don’t operate beyond a 150-air-mile radius of their normal work location
Drivers of vehicles that were manufactured before the model year 2000
Drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations, where the vehicle being driven is the commodity being delivered
Drivers who operate as part of a drive-away operation that involves the delivery of a motor home or a recreational vehicle trailer to a dealership or a customer
Drivers who conduct driveaway-towaway operations for the delivery of new and used vehicles
Drivers who work exclusively as harvest or agricultural transporters

Even drivers who are exempt from the ELD mandate or drive ELD exempt trucks must comply with HOS regulations. Instead of having to use an ELD, they’re required to keep accurate paper records of their driving hours.

For more details about federal exemption qualifications, visit the FMCSA website. Additionally, some states may have their own ELD requirements, so drivers should check with their state’s department of transportation to ensure compliance with all regulations.

ELD types

Hardwired: These are directly wired into the vehicle's diagnostics system. They offer stable connections and can often access richer vehicle data.
Plug-and-play: Easy to install, these devices plug into the OBD-II port. Ideal for fleets needing quick, less-involved installations.
Smartphone-based: These pair a mobile app with a plug-in dongle. They're usually less expensive but rely on the phone's battery and data.
Standalone: These have their own display and storage, needing manual transfer of data via USB or other methods. They don't require an internet connection.
Telematics: These combine multiple functions like GPS tracking, two-way communication, and vehicle diagnostics. They offer more data for analysis.
Engine-connected: Integrated directly with the vehicle's engine, these provide very accurate data. They're often more expensive and complicated to install.
Fleet management: Designed for managing multiple vehicles, these offer advanced analytics, reporting, and real-time monitoring.
Satellite-based: Useful in remote locations, these devices use satellite connectivity to send data, making them more reliable when cellular networks are unavailable.

Each type has pros and cons, so choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and operating environment.

Pros and cons

Pros

Accuracy: ELDs increase the accuracy of recording hours of service, which helps ensure compliance with regulations.
Efficiency: They can reduce the amount of paperwork and manual record-keeping, which can save time for drivers and administrative staff.
Safety: By ensuring drivers adhere to their legally mandated hours on the road, ELDs can help increase safety.
Monitoring: Fleet managers can monitor and manage their fleet more effectively.

Cons

Cost: Purchasing ELDs and paying any associated monthly fees can be expensive, especially for small businesses.
Privacy concerns: Some drivers may feel that constant monitoring is an invasion of privacy.
Technical issues: Like all electronic systems, ELDs can have glitches, breakdowns, or other issues.
Learning curve: There can be a learning curve for drivers and fleet managers in understanding how to use ELDs effectively.

Explore your options

If you’re considering equipping your fleet with reliable ELD solutions, FreightWaves Ratings has partnered with leading providers including Motive and Trimble.

These companies have established themselves as pioneers, offering advanced ELD technology tailored to the needs of commercial fleets. Enhance the capabilities of your ELD equipment with the industry-leading solutions offered by our esteemed partners.