How to Get ELD Technology in Your Truck without Hurting Your Business

If you’re currently using paper logs, your deadline to switch to an electronic logging device is December 18, 2017. If you install a compliant advanced on board recording device (AOBRD) prior to December 18, 2017, you’ll have an additional two years to update your equipment to compliant ELDs by December 18, 2019.

So how do you stay compliant without spending a ton of money, confusing your drivers, and losing productivity? Here are some tips to help!

How Much is This Going to Cost Me?

It costs around $500 per truck, per year to run an ELD, but the FMCSA says ELDs will save the industry $3.4 billion each year through reduced paperwork and fewer highway accidents. You may be dreading the mandate, but here are some ELD benefits to think about that might make the transition from paper logs easier to deal with.

• Provide real-time access to information from back office
• Could reduce or eliminate HOS violations
• Stores vehicle inspection reports and other data
• Monitors vehicle health and performance
• Improves safety and efficiency
• Reduces paperwork

Get the Right Electronic Log Book Device

Make sure you get the right equipment. According to the rule, trucks need to have a logging device that is compliant with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation 49 CFR § 395.15.

That means you need an electronic log with these features.

• Made by an FMCSA-certified manufacturer
• Linked with your truck’s engine
• Allows a driver to login and select On-duty, off-duty or other status
• Shows Record of Duty Status (RODS)
• Tamper-resistant
• Will track the truck’s movement
• Offloads data to law enforcement

Next, you need to pick the best e-log technology for your fleet. It can be overwhelming to select the right one. ELDs can do a lot and there are several different types and models from a lot of different companies, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for and what your business needs are.

Recording and telematics devices are devices that connect to the truck and work with a mobile app on a smartphone or tablet. This lets the driver update logs while outside the truck, making it easy for them to stay compliant. Here’s a list of FMCSA-registered ELD devices.

Industrial-grade mobility combines telematics devices with durable hard-mount and/or mobile displays. Zonar and PeopleNet offer products in this category, which includes electronic logging, vehicle inspection, navigation and driver workflow messaging.

Some owner-operators are finding success in the “bring your own device (BYOD)” business model. This is using computer-assisted logs or low-cost telematics. This is the easiest way for some owners to stay compliant.

Introducing ELD’s to Your Fleet

Once you’ve decided what features you need, chose the type of elog device that fits your business needs best. For many fleets, the best option is one that boosts productivity, fuel savings, safety, and compliance.

Have Your Best Drivers Test: Before spending the time and money putting ELDs in all your trucks, test the technology. Pick your safest and most technology-savvy drivers to use the ELD on their routes first. Explore all the features and get comfortable with the software. This way you have time to get familiar with the technology and make sure it works with your business. If it doesn’t, ask the manufacturer about their refund policy and test out a different ELD until you find the one you like.

Stage a Roll Out: Now that you’ve worked out the kinks and had your drivers test the equipment, it’s time to outfit your fleet. Install an ELD in each truck and make sure every driver knows how to use the equipment. Give your drivers a manual and have your safety officer ready to answer any questions.

With these tips you can make the transition to ELDs stress-free and easy!

Does the ELD mandate and cash flow have you stressed? Let us show you how our freight factoring, fuel programs and technology can help you. Get in touch with Apex Capital today call 1-855-369-2739 or get started here.