An Electronic logging device is a gadget utilized by commercial drivers, mostly Truckers, to monitor and record the basic operations of the Vehicle. The primary device location is near the engine. It helps drivers to track their driving hours of service, HOS. The working hours of truckers have to be per regulations set out by the driving hours governing body. The name of this organization will vary depending on the exact location where a Driver is using the vehicle. All drivers using commercial truckers must keep records of their duty status, RODS, by the help of the ELD. You should ensure the ELD you are using is operating while complying with all the rules of the HOS.

Performance Specifications

Before you start using any ELD, it is essential to get the confirmation of some crucial features just to ensure it will serve its purpose. The ELD should display the record of duty status graphically to enable the driver to see the hours they have driven in a day. A driver should see the hours while sitting using less effort. Secondly, since the ELD has a direct attachment to the engine, it should also have the capacity to detect if the vehicle is in motion or not. Another important aspect is the allowing of drivers to log in and make a selection of whether they are on duty, off duty, or in other instances on a working mission but not explicitly driving.

Also, the ELD should have all the necessary certifications from the provider to be able to be fully functional. The data provision mode should be in a standard way to easily enable transmissions to law regulatory organizations in various ways. Simple methods of communication include USB, Bluetooth, or internet services.

Previously, truckers were using paper logs for tracking their hours of service. They were commonly known as electronic onboard recorders, EOBR. The device had high-efficiency levels by improving the data accuracy, but unfortunately, there was no consistency. The format in the displaying of data kept changing; therefore, a need to keep regenerating the logs kept arising. According to the RODS, this inconsistency only meant less accuracy and hence the introduction of the ELD.

Apart from monitoring the activities of a vehicle, whether during movement or not, the ELD is beneficial to the trucker to help them offer services while they also better themselves. An ELD has a unique component to manage fleet behavior and systems. The Fleet management system, FMS, further has additional advantageous features. Such features include a decrease in the costs of fuel, lowering of the crashing overhead rates, simplification of the regulatory compliances, and a reduction in the truck’s downtime. Truckers operate better, knowing the system has their interests also catered for as well as the vehicle.

Using an ELD is not optional according to the law enforcement regulations. All operators of a commercial motor vehicle have no option but to incorporate the ELD in their daily motorist operations. However, there is an exemption for commercial drivers who use towaways, drivers transporting new and old empty vehicles for sale, leasing or repair and maintenance purposes.