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WHAT IS AN ELD? (ELDs) plug into a truck’s diagnostic port to record driving time and Hours of Service data to prevent violations. Some things to know about ELDs: • Records movement of vehicle, miles driven, and engine hours • Drivers create an account to enter their status: on/off duty, etc. • ELDs must have capability to send raw data during inspection and be certified with FMCSA  WHAT IS AN ELD COMPOSED OF? ELDs have two major components. One is the actual device that needs to be plugged in, since, per the rule, logs need to be integrally synchronized with the vehicle engine. The other is the vendor software that displays on a screen (i.e. smartphone, tablet, etc.). The software allows truckers to: • Create a driver account • Enter their duty status • Edit/finalize their driving logs WHO MUST COMPLY? Generally, truckers who are currently required to keep paper logs will need an ELD. This would include most truckers who operate across state lines and have a radius of operation greater than 150 miles.  WHO IS EXEMPT FROM THE ELD MANDATE?
There are a few exemptions for who is required to comply with the ELD mandate. The most notable exemptions include vehicles older than model year 2000, short-term truck rentals, drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations, and drivers who do not keep paper logs for more than eight days out of every 30-day period. For a complete list of exemptions, see here: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/faq/what-exceptions-are-allowedelectronic-logging-device-rule WHAT TYPES OF ELDS ARE AVAILABLE? There are two types of devices: • Cab devices with a built-in display • Bring your own devices that connect with a trucker’s smartphone, tablet, etc. Both types make tracking hours of service easier and more accurate than paper logs, and also provide vehicle inspection reports.
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Change is coming to the trucking industry with the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate taking effect in December. Many large fleets have already converted from paper travel logs to ELDs. But, many truckers have told us that a fear of the unknown with having to adopt new ways of running their business, new technology, and additional costs are preventing a large number of owner-operators from making the switch. In fact, some are considering early retirement or changing professions. The mandate continues to be challenged but it’s unlikely that it will be overturned, revised or delayed. This change brings a great opportunity to talk with your truck customers and share what you know about the mandate. As their trusted insurance advisor you can help them make an informed decision—and possibly save some of your best business from leaving the industry. COUNTRYWIDE MANDATE EFFECTIVE DEC. 18, 2017 The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will require many commercial truckers to use an ELD effective Dec. 18. Generally, truckers who are currently required to keep paper logs will need an ELD. This would include most truckers who operate across state lines. Trucks that are older than model year 2000 are exempt. For more details on who is affected, visit the FMCSA website. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU AND YOUR CUSTOMERS Overdrive reported that many truckers are apprehensive about switching to an ELD due to additional costs and feeling an invasion of privacy. There's widespread concern that a significant number of drivers may choose to get out of the business, leading to a shortage of tenured truck drivers and changes in the market. ALL ELDS ARE NOT THE SAME ELDs can be permanently attached to a truck (cab device) or can be a hand-held device (smartphone). Both types make tracking hours-of-service easier and more accurate than paper logs, and also provide vehicle inspection reports and gauges featuring key engine stats. All ELDs must be certified with the FMCSA to be compliant. For additional information on compliant ELDs, visit the FMCSA website. GET AN ELD PRIOR TO THE MANDATE We recommend truckers get an ELD well in advance of the deadline. Drivers who switch early will have time to adapt to the learning curve and become well-versed on how to use it correctly when the mandate takes effect. |
