How the ELD Mandate Will Affect Your Business
The ELD mandate will change the way your trucking company operates. By switching from paper logbooks to automated data collection, carriers can ensure that their drivers stay within hours of service regulations and improve operational efficiency. In addition, ELDs will help to ensure that tired or overworked drivers are off the road.
Although the ELD mandate is mandatory for most commercial motor vehicles, some exceptions exist. For example, drivers of short-haul routes that aren’t required to keep hours of service records can continue to use timecards and do not need an ELD. Additionally, drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations may continue using their paper RODS for up to 8 days out of every 30 days.
However, it’s important to note that even if you qualify for one of these exemptions, using an ELD to simplify the process and ensure compliance with the FMCSA’s rules is still a good idea. This will help you avoid costly fines and ensure your fleet operates safely.
What You Need to Know About the ELD Mandate
Before you purchase an ELD device, it’s essential to understand the FMCSA’s requirements for compliance. This includes understanding the different types of ELDs, how they operate, and what records you must keep.
In addition, you should also know what features to look for in an ELD. A good option will have driver communication tools to help drivers stay in touch with the office and each other and routing tools to improve route optimization and fuel efficiency.
The FMCSA offers resources to help truckers and motor carriers understand the ELD mandate. These include tutorials and webinars, as well as a comprehensive FAQ document.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the ELD mandate does not change any existing hours of service rules. However, it does make them easier to enforce. Additionally, the rule has introduced new exceptions allowing drivers to use their devices for personal conveyance purposes.
How to Get Ready for the ELD Mandate
The FMCSA has created several helpful resources to help drivers prepare for the ELD mandate. These include tutorials, webinars, and more. The agency also offers a list of certified ELD providers. This can help truckers find a device that meets their needs.
Whether you are a trucking company or a shipper, it is essential to understand how the ELD mandate will affect your business. You should also be prepared for decreased capacity, increased shipping costs, and other potential challenges.
A partner who can help you comply with the ELD mandate is also essential. A comprehensive solution can ensure your fleet is fully compliant and free from unnecessary stress. It can also help you save time and money by providing powerful back-office management tools that streamline your operations. In addition, it can help you keep your trucks on the road by reducing downtime caused by compliance issues.
How to Avoid the ELD Mandate
While compliance with the ELD mandate is mandatory for some fleets, you can avoid it in some ways. Fleets should ensure their drivers have a regulation-compliant device installed and know which exemptions apply to them.
The ELD mandate requires truck drivers to use an electronic device to track their hours of service. The device ensures drivers do not exceed federal safety standards by allowing enforcement agencies to view driving and on-duty time records. Additionally, drivers or trucking companies cannot tamper with or modify the device.
