What is ELD (Electronic Logging Device (ELD) and What is its Purpose?

An ELD (electronic logging device) is a device that is used in commercial trucks to track hours of service (HOS). ELD technology automatically records a driver’s driving time and other aspects of their HOS records to allow for easier, more accurate HOS recordkeeping. An ELD GPS device monitors a vehicle’s engine to capture data on the:

• Whether the engine is running
• Whether the vehicle is moving
• Miles driven
• Duration of engine operation in hours

The reason for measuring and recording driver hours behind the wheel is public safety—specifically, as it relates to drivers falling asleep at the wheel. It also stops the truckers from driving that last hour home when they’ve already driven 8 straight hours (typically the largest number of at-fault accidents occur from this last hour. Drivers may not want to stop as they’re paid by the mile, not by the hour or on fixed salary).

In the past, truck drivers logged everything via a spiral book and didn’t use a fleet management system. These logbooks were always fudged and not truly enforceable from a law enforcement standpoint. An ELD and HOS are basically “data loggers” that record all driving and hours of “behind the wheel” use of trucks. The data logger-type data port is accessible by Law Enforcement at Truck Stops, random highway stops, etc.

The ELD device mandate went into effect on December 18, 2017. This rule improves commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety and reduces the overall paperwork burden for both motor carriers and drivers by increasing the use of ELDs within the motor carrier industry, which will, in turn, improve compliance with the applicable HOS rules.

• requires new technical specifications for ELDs that address statutory requirements
• mandates ELDs for drivers currently using records of Duty Status (RODS)
• clarifies supporting document requirements so that motor carriers and drivers 7 can comply efficiently with HOS regulations
• adopts both procedural and technical provisions aimed at ensuring that ELDs are not used to harass CMV operators

As part of this new ELD mandate, most commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers must follow HOS regulations. These vehicles include those made after the year 2000, used for business purposes, are DOT registered, cross state lines, and weigh 10,001+ pounds. Other characteristics include transporting 9+ people or hazardous materials.

Electronic logging devices can help your delivery business by doing the following:

• Improves driver accountability
• Staying FMCSA compliant
• Increase routing and delivery efficiency
• Maintain vehicle usage
• Save money by reducing overtime
• 24/7 location tracking
• Automated reporting
• Lower insurance costs