Safety is everyone’s concern in the trucking industry, and drowsy drivers are one of the biggest risks. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for making sure all truckers get enough sleep to keep themselves and others safe on the roads. That is why they now mandate the use of ELDs to record, edit, certify, and transfer driving records to enforcement agencies upon request, but how do you select the best ELD for your trucking needs?
Easy to Install
One of the characteristics you should look for in an ELD is how easy it is to install. Some ELD units only connect to a 6-pin or 9-pin circular port. In some cases, you might need to purchase an adaptor separately. Other units come ready to connect to either pin configuration, which means you can install them and get them operational quickly. Another thing you will want to look for is a device that is compatible with both Android and iOS.
Reliable and Accurate
Reliability and accuracy are a must when it comes to FMCSA compliance. You need to understand how the ELD records on and off-duty time. The FMCSA regularly reviews registered devices, and those that are not compliant are removed from the registry. You must use a registered device to meet compliance regulations. Otherwise, it could result in an unintentional violation. Not all devices provide IFTA reporting, and some charge an extra fee for this service.
Keep Track of Possible Violations in Real-Time
Some ELD units keep track of the available driving hours in real-time. They will also let you know of your status with notifications and warning sounds when you are close to a violation. Not all devices provide such real-time data, and you can accidentally go over your allowable driving hours.
Manage a Fleet
When it comes to managing a fleet, not all ELDs are created equal. You will find wide differences in pricing for various sizes of fleets, while others do not charge an ongoing monthly fee. The most advanced systems give you the ability to monitor your drivers in real-time by clicking on them. This means no unwanted surprises for fleet managers, and you can get an overview of your status with just a few clicks.
Convenient to Use
Convenience is an important factor to consider when choosing an ELD. This is especially true when it comes to editing and updating logs. Many devices give you access to detailed information through an app on your mobile phone. They should have an interface that is easy to use and navigate. You should also look for the ability to record and transmit DVIRs.
Compare Features
An ELD should do more than simply replace paper logs. It should give you the ability to access the data you need quickly. Another thing to consider is whether the ELD offers cloud storage. Not all of them do, which means you must make sure you have enough storage available. Cloud storage lets you transmit data quickly and easily to your company or compliance agencies.
Other advanced features that some ELDs offer are idle time tracking and engine diagnostics. These features help you avoid additional maintenance costs and help cut down on fuel expenditures. Purchasing an ELD system based on price is not always the best option. Some offer no costs for the hardware, but you must sign a long contract, or they are bare-bones units. You have to weigh what you get for the price.
