Using an ELD system eliminates the need to keep paper logs, which saves fleet managers and drivers time and money. However, not all ELD systems are the same. Some come with expensive add-on software features and data plans that can cost your business more in the long run.
ELDs simplify HOS compliance for fleets, increasing efficiency and reducing fuel waste while providing a competitive advantage. Learn how an ELD solution like Samsara can improve your operations:
Safety
The main benefit of using electronic logging devices is that they automate and digitize record-keeping, making it easier to keep up with federal guidelines. They also reduce the likelihood of error compared to paper logs that can be misinterpreted or tampered with.
This can help drivers maintain their HOS compliance without risking costly federal audits. Additionally, they can spend less time on paperwork and roadside inspections and more driving time on their routes.
Moreover, ELD solutions enable fleet managers to monitor driver performance and safety metrics like speeding, harsh braking, and idling time. These insights can help them coach drivers and minimize fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and insurance premiums. This makes it easy for the trucking industry to stay safe while boosting efficiency and profits.
Efficiency
ELDs eliminate the need for drivers to keep paper logbooks and improve fleet efficiency by automating time-consuming tasks, such as logging driving hours. They also help prevent driver fatigue and ensure stronger compliance with Hours of Service regulations.
The best ELDs provide additional capabilities, such as engine fault reporting and GPS tracking, to increase the value of your fleet investment. They can even be installed on a tablet, providing real-time location data that helps fleets optimize fuel consumption and reduce idling times.
Less-than-truckload carriers, for example, can use this data to share live ETAs with brokers and earn more per load. This competitive advantage helps save money on fuel and reduce driver stress. Additionally, ELDs help avoid costly violations that can lead to fines and penalties for truckers.
Compliance
ELDs digitally record a driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS), replacing paper logbooks and ensuring compliance with Hours of Service rules. They also help fleets manage drivers’ HOS compliance and safety, reduce trucking costs, and improve operations.
Many ELD solutions include in-cab hardware and a mobile app that syncs with fleet management software to produce reports, maps, and notifications. Fleet and drivers can access the data on demand to monitor compliance and stay safe on the road.
Although purchasing and installing ELDs can initially seem expensive, they pay for themselves by minimizing fuel waste, reducing commercial insurance premiums, assisting with vehicle diagnostics, improving route management, and providing a competitive advantage.
Reporting
ELDs automate the process of tracking vehicle and driver data. Fleet managers can quickly run actionable reports on hours of service (HOS), violations, and DVIRs to make informed decisions that improve efficiency and safety.
The FMCSA estimates that a truck driver using an ELD can save 19 hours each year compared to submitting paper logs. This time savings allows for improved productivity and a more predictable workflow for drivers and fleet managers.
Be sure to choose an FMCSA-approved ELD that’s easy for your fleet and won’t require lengthy training. Also, avoid add-on fees like GPS devices or data plans that increase costs. Samsara offers an all-inclusive, reliable, and affordable system that simplifies compliance. Request a free trial today to learn more.
Analytics
A major benefit of ELDs for fleet managers is that they can quickly run actionable reports on driver logs, HOS violations, and vehicle inspections (DVIR). This allows them to stay current with their drivers’ statuses without sifting through stacks of paper logs that are subject to error.
In addition, advanced ELD systems include idle-time trackers that help fleets reduce fuel costs and environmental impact. They can also provide real-time GPS tracking of fleet vehicles for a competitive advantage. For example, less-than-truckload carriers can share truck locations with broker apps to earn more per load, and passenger transit fleets can give customers live ETAs.
Additionally, some ELDs can detect bad driving behaviors like excessive acceleration, hard braking, and rough cornering and alert dispatchers to address the issue with the driver. This helps improve safety and reduce accidents and liability claims.
