It seems there isn't enough time and there's a lot to do. One of the biggest problems for fleets, however, is that many drivers are still unwilling to adopt ELDs. They believe ELDs will make their lives more difficult and complicated. If you encounter the same problem, the solution is to present the ELDs to your drivers in a more strategic and tactful way.
Introducing ELDs to drivers is an important step towards compliance, and the following tips will certainly help.
What is an ELD in Trucking?
The definition of ELD is a device that captures critical data on engine usage, miles driven, and the overall movements of a truck/vehicle at any point during a route. ELDs record what are referred to as hours of service (HOS), the amount of time drivers are on duty including driving time. This detailed HOS information is sent electronically to a server on a regular basis, helping fleet managers stay attuned to on-duty driver hours in order to ensure compliance.
An ELD typically includes several parts that connect to a mobile ELD application that the driver has on their company smartphone.
Key Benefits of ELD Systems:-
ELDs offer numerous advantages when used in conjunction with a subscription service from a fleet management software solution such as the one provided by Isotrack. With an ELD system installed, fleet managers and drivers can:
• Reducing driver fatigue behind the wheel and thus reducing the risk of accidents.
• Reduce insurance premiums and maintenance costs for their company vehicles.
• Accurately record their statutory hours of service (HOS) records.
• Manage their vehicle inspection reports, fuel consumption, and receipts.
• Keep their Driver Verification and Inspection Reports (DVIR) up to date.
• To comply with the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)- the fuel tax agreement requires fleet owners to record their fuel expenditure, consumption and mileage.
There is also the added benefit of massively reducing manual administration of HOS (Hours of Service), allowing companies to save time and automate their operations.
Understanding ELD Compliance Requirements:-
[1] ELD apps
DOT-approved ELD apps help drivers avoid HOS violations by keeping more accurate logs and helping them stay within driving time limits through the convenience of their mobile devices.
For many fleets, ELD compliance is mandatory and can be complex. By using a streamlined digital solution like an ELD app, drivers and managers alike can be confident that the fleet is FMCSA compliant with up-to-date HOS logs. This also gives fleet managers the ability to seamlessly monitor driver status and manage their time while maintaining compliance across the whole fleet.
[2] HOS tracking
The main metric that ELDs track is HOS. With modern HOS ELD systems, logs are kept in electronic form and updated automatically, resulting in far greater precision and accuracy. The logs are then easily accessible to drivers and inspectors through the driver’s ELD app. ELD solutions typically also allow fleet managers to see ELD HOS information as well as driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) though a fleet management web dashboard that can help sort information by driver, location, fleet, and more.
[3] ELD requirements
Since the ELD law went into effect near the end of 2017, drivers who record HOS and RODS have been required to meet electronic log or “elog” requirements for Department of Transportation (DOT) compliance, including the ability to share logs with a DOT officer in the field. ELD systems must meet specific logging capabilities and support state-by-state regulations as well as HOS exemptions related to short haul driving, adverse conditions, emergency situations, and others.
DOT eLog requirements allow the logs to be displayed on mobile devices such as phones or tablets. DOT requirements also specify that the logging device is mounted in a fixed position in the vehicle during operation where the driver can see it.
[4] ELD solutions
Fleets that employ ELDs for compliance often recognize additional benefits such as reduction of wasted labor. Fleet managers can save time with ELDs given HOS information is readily available. In addition, they can avoid warnings, fines, and penalties through reports on all of their drivers’ HOS compliance, DVIR, and more.
Specific ELD hardware components include:
• Display: A readout that shows driver duty status and other important information.
• ECM connector: Connects the ELD to the truck’s engine compartment.
• Component power source: The part of the component that powers the device during operation.
• GPS receiver: Transmits important information about the vehicle’s current and past locations.
• Storage component: Keeps track of data that can be used at a different time to review information collected at any time.
How ELDs Help Reduce HOS Violations?
ELDs can minimize hours-of-service violations. Hours-of-service violations are a major headache for drivers. They hate HOS violations because they damage their reputation and disrupt their daily routines and schedules.
Explain how electronic traffic management systems (ELDs) significantly reduce the number of HOS violations by alerting drivers to upcoming violations with audible warnings. Furthermore, electronic recording systems completely eliminate the form and manner violations that so many drivers occasionally commit.
You can also mention that your company is losing a ton of money due to HOS violations, fines, and penalties. Every company does. It's no secret. According to a recent study, in the first quarter of 2017 (January 2017 to March 2017), the trucking industry was hit by HOS violations worth nearly $400 million.
You need to make your drivers understand that these fines can be avoided through electronic logging systems. The money saved by businesses can be reinvested in the company and its drivers to create more revenue-generating opportunities for everyone.
How to Choose the Best ELD Provider:-
Choosing an ELD provider can be a challenging task, as it requires some thought and due diligence. Take these important steps when determining the right ELD company for your fleet’s needs.
First and foremost, make sure that the ELD service you’re considering is ELD certified. Companies who provide these services must be registered and subsequently certified that they comply with all of the requirements set forth by governing agencies. The FMCSA states in their bylaws that each company is required to make sure that their devices are registered.
In addition to critical registration and certification, make sure to check out the following parameters of any ELD services or companies that you’re interested in doing business with.
• How long has the company been doing business?
• How many customers do they work with and are there reviews or references that can be checked to determine reliability and compliance?
• What are their security policies?
• Do they have solution partners with additional components that can be seamlessly integrated into their platform for additional insights?
In closing, make sure to look for an FMCSA approved ELD when you are shopping for the best options for your fleet.
Conclusion:-
Introducing ELDs to your drivers is the first step toward compliance. There will inevitably be some resistance from drivers, but it's management's job to address any concerns.
Be transparent, communicate, and engage your drivers. Installing ELDs is a significant decision for your fleet, and it should involve all stakeholders. Ultimately, the drivers are the ones operating the vehicles equipped with ELDs. Therefore, it's crucial to contact with ELD MANDATE and ensure they understand the requirements and support the company's decision to switch to ELDs.
For more details, get in touch with us!