The ELD Mandate: Are Your Electronic Logging Devices Compliant?

Electronic logging devices (ELD) have transformed the trucking industry. As technology has evolved and regulations have standardized, these devices have revolutionized record keeping and accountability for drivers and owners. The ELD mandate has been a major factor in all of these changes.

So, what is the ELD mandate, and are you compliant? Here’s the FAQ to bring you and your business up to speed on electronic logging devices in Minnesota.

What is the ELD mandate?

In 2015, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published the ELD mandate. This required trucking companies to use ELD to track mileage and hours. A deadline of December 2017 was given for compliance.

What is an ELD?

An electronic logging device electronically records a driver’s record of duty status (RODS). This device replaces paper logs that drivers used to use to record their hours of service.

What is an AOBRD?

An AOBRD is an automatic on-board recording device. It is a type of ELD. This is a common form of device that many drivers and fleets are using today. These meet the ELD mandate requirements, as they automatically record the driver’s status and vehicle operation.

What are the electronic recording devices used for?

If requested, drivers must be able to present the ELD/AOBRD display to provide their recent activity to law enforcement or fleet owners. The devices are designed to serve two main purposes. First, they reduce the amount of paperwork required by drivers and fleet owners, which streamlines the record keeping process for everyone. By automatically tracking everything, drivers no longer have to keep paper logs. Second, the devices provide additional accountability for drivers and owners, since activity is automatically tracked.

Are there any other benefits of using electronic logging devices?

Yes. Fleets are seeing many benefits of using electronic logging devices in Minnesota. These innovations can save truck drivers time, as they reduce the paperwork the driver has to complete. They also keep dispatchers updated on each driver’s status. This can help them plan more accurately to meet delivery and receiving needs.

Can’t drivers just use their phones?

With advancements in smartphone technology, many are wondering if an ELD is really necessary. Can’t personal mobile devices do pretty much the same thing? In fact, they often can, and the FMCSA has recognized this. In order to reduce the cost burden of purchasing and using other electronic logging devices for their fleets, FMCSA has approved the use of smartphones and tablets as long as they meet electronic logging device requirements. Keep in mind that this includes being hardwired to the truck’s engine for proper recording of data.

Need More Info?

As regulations and technology continue to evolve, questions will naturally arise. If you have any questions or concerns about the ELD mandate or other related issues, feel free to contact your experts at K-Way Express, Inc. Our experienced team creates customized transportation solutions for companies of all sizes. We are a fully licensed transportation brokerage company with over 700 carriers at our fingertips that mirror our customer service standards. Contact our knowledgeable staff today to learn more about the ELD mandate and electronic logging devices in Minnesota.