ELD Mandate

The FMCSA published the final electronic logging device rule in December 2015 and it went into effect on December 18, 2017.

In 2012, Congress enacted the “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century” bill. It’s more commonly referred to as MAP-21 and outlined the criteria for highway funding and included a provision requiring the FMCSA to develop a rule mandating the use of electronic logging devices.

The ELD is used to electronically record a driver’s record of duty status (RODS). It replaces paper logs used to record hours of service (HOS). If your fleet was equipped with the AOBRDS prior to December 18, 2017, you have until December 2019 to ensure compliance with the specifications published.

ELDs and AOBRDS reduce paperwork. All devices must meet the standard covered in the FMCSA’s rule 395.15 requiring the devices to automatically record a driver’s duty status and changes in status, as well as the amount of time the vehicle was operated. Drivers must understand how to operate the equipment and be able to immediately produce the last seven days, plus the current day’s logs. If the driver is unable to produce logs or explain working knowledge of the installed device, a citation may be issued.

To capture the hours of service of the driver, the system synchronizes with the truck’s engine. The system will then pass  data along to the back office support set up to receive the information within fifteen minute sequences allowing everyone to be up to date on the driver and the vehicle. No system on the market, approved by the FMCSA, will allow drive time to be manipulated. 

Make sure your team is compliant with the ELD mandate so you’re not affected financially. Fines can go up as high as $11,000.00 per citation when safety officers step in.

We’ve had hands on experience with several types of the ELD equipment and thus far, we suggest the Transflo ELD. It’s a simple system with a multitude of services included in the monthly subscription without being considered an “add on” feature.