Keeping electronic driver logs in the USA is imperative (Electronic driver logs are mandatory in the USA for FMCSA compliance and safer trucking operations.). It will help you stay compliant with HOS (Hours-of-service) rules. To maintain that log efficiently and without any hassle, you can use an electronic logging device. It will provide you with numerous benefits.
In recent times, FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has made electronic logbook trucking mandatory in the USA. This mandate is intended to make America’s highways safer, and truckers will save a considerable amount of money.
You need to understand that fatigue is one of the significant reasons behind truck accidents in the US. Here, an ELD can help to prevent this issue by making the drivers adhere to strict hours of service rules. For instance, the HOS rule will allow an additional 2 hours of driving time during adverse driving conditions.
Besides, it will also track the 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving. Therefore, you can understand that ELD trucking is capable of saving lives by keeping the drivers accountable for their driving time. Well, according to data from FMCSA, ELD trucking can save 25 along with 562 injuries annually.
Benefits of using ELD for keeping Electronic driver logs in the USA:
[1] There will be no burdensome paperwork:
According to the estimates of a FMCSA CMV (Commercial Motor Vehicles) drivers spend more than 20 hours a year on paperwork. So, you can understand that this task comes with numerous hassles and consumes a considerable amount of time. So, to save that time, and Electronic logbook trucking in the USA can come in pretty handy. It will help you save time by recording the HOS automatically in real-time while you are driving.
[2] You can keep your distance from costly errors:
Paper logs are vulnerable when it comes to recording various data pieces. For instance, there is a possibility that you will record an incorrect location or wrong time. There is a possibility that these mistakes will add up during IFTA reporting. An electronic logbook tracking system in the USA will help you save a considerable amount of money by ensuring all your maths is totalled without a fuss.
[3] Faster and easier inspection will be there:
Gone are the days when you used to go through hand-written logs or other paperwork to locate HOS violations or errors. With the help of this device, you can keep all your data in one place. It will be easier for the DOT (Department of Transportation) officers to get done with their inspections. Once the inspectors are done with the inspections, you will get back to the roads quickly.
[4] Dispatchers will keep track of you:
With one of these devices on your side, it will help the dispatchers to keep track of you. Well, think about it this way. What if your vehicle witnesses a breakdown in the middle of nowhere? During that time, an Electronic logbook trucking can save your back. With the help of this device, the dispatchers will know your location and can provide roadside assistance to you.
[5] Customer satisfaction will get a boost:
Being the customer, nothing is more irritating than a late delivery. But, you need to understand that roads can be unpredictable several times and you don’t have any control over the situation. During those times, an Electronic logbook tracking system can keep you happy by providing you with the correct information about your location as well as ETA.
Factors to consider before choosing the best ELD to keep electronic driver logs:
(1) FMCSA Compliance:
It is the first thing that you need to keep in mind. You have to make sure that the device is registered as well as certified by the FMCSA. It will signify the fact that you are meeting all regulatory requirements. Consequently, you will end up saving money by saving penalties.
(2) Real-time tracking:
Now, you must take this factor into account before making the final decision. You must choose a device that provides you with accurate GPS tracking. It will help you monitor vehicle location. Plus, you can optimize routes according to your preferences.
(3) Ease of use:
Whenever you are choosing one of these devices, check for an intuitive interface that is easy for the drivers to operate and navigate. To be precise, it will provide you with simple login and status updates. It will help you track your data precisely.
(4) Data transfer options:
It is an imperative feature that you must consider while availing of one of these devices. Make sure that the device comes with various data transfer features such as USB and Bluetooth. It will help you get access to reports and logs effortlessly and quickly.
(5) Automated driver logs:
If you are planning to buy one of these devices, it is one of the most significant factors that you need to keep in mind. Your device must be able to generate driver logs. Consequently, it will reduce paperwork along with ensuring accurate HOS compliance.
(6) Analytics and reporting:
Opt for an ELD that delivers comprehensive analytics and reports. It will help you in numerous ways such as monitoring the driver performance, improving operational efficiency, and identifying potential issues. So, be precise about this factor before making the final decision.
(7) Customer support:
Evaluating the provider’s service reputation is a must. It will include numerous things such availability of training resources and technical support. It will reflect the fact that they are capable of answering all your queries precisely.
(8) Integration capabilities:
Consider an ELD that is capable of integrating with the existing fleet management systems or other software used for streamlined operations. So, before making the final decision, keep this point in mind. It will help you choose the best device provider.
(9) Pricing and cost structure:
Finally, you need to check the pricing and cost structure. Well, there are numerous things that you can do such as comparing upfront costs, monthly subscriptions, and additional charges to get the most effective solution of all.
Things to do before opting for an ELD to keep electronic driver logs:
i. Research and compare:
Before choosing a device, conducting in-depth research is a must. It will help you comprehend both the pros and cons of a device. Also, you must compare it with other devices to fathom its efficiency and why you must choose a particular product.
ii. Consult the industry experts:
Seeking advice from other fleet managers or industry associations will aid you a lot. It will provide you with significant insights, which will help you, rely on the device precisely. Therefore, before making the final decision, consulting an industry expert is a must.
iii. Request for trials and demos:
We can understand that choosing an ELD is a pretty tough job. As it involves a myriad of things, you must go for trials as well as demos. It will help you apprehend its functionality and usability. Based on that, you can make the right decision.
iv. Review the contract terms:
Reviewing the contract terms is a must before making the final decision. Carefully examine the contract details, which will consist of contract details such as hidden fees or limitations. Therefore, before making the final decision, make sure to review the contract terms.
List of efficient ELD devices which we offer and their amazing features:
Model EM200/EM300:
- It will provide you with near real-time tracking.
- Share location with others automatically.
- It will provide you with speeding alerts.
- You will also get geofence alerts.
- Remote finding will be easier with this device.
- It is IP67 Waterproof & Dust resistant
- This model comprises flashing lights to find the trailer or to create an alarm.
Model EM6120:
- It will identify and warn the driver’s fatigue state to ensure safe driving.
- It will warn and identify the calling behaviour of the driver.
- If the driver is showing unusual driving behaviour, the machine will identify it and warn about it.
- The device is capable of detecting belt status along with issuing a warning.
- You will also get a smoking warning from the device.
Models 10BIZ332; EM6120:
- GPS tracking will be easier with the help of this device.
- You will get a back-office portal.
- There will be an integrated roadside-facing dash cam.
- You will get various accessories with this model.
- It is pretty easy to install.
So, these are all the things that you need to know about before availing of one of these devices. If you are looking for the best electronic logs for truckers in the USA, consider it to be a wise decision. All you need to do is to get in touch with ELD MANDATE and voila! Your trucking experience will go to the next level. We promise that you will never be disappointed.