The ELD Mandate: Pros And Cons
Emma PaulineJanuary 5, 2023ELD

The ELD Mandate: Pros And Cons

What is the ELD Mandate?

The ELD mandate was congressionally mandated as part of the MAP-21 in 2012 by the United States Congress.  The MAP-21, “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century” bill, outlined the criteria for highway funding and included a provision requiring the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) to develop a rule mandating the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs).  The bill is intended to help create a safer work environment for drivers, and make it easier and faster to accurately track, manage, and share records of duty status (RODS) data. 

How does an ELD work?

An ELD, electronic logging device, synchronizes with the vehicle’s engine; thereby capturing data on off/on status of the engine, whether the vehicle is moving, miles are driven, and duration of engine operation (engine hours).  ELDs automatically record driving time, for easier, more accurate hours of service (HOS) recording.  ELDs essentially replace paper HOS log books.

Who must comply with the ELD Mandate?

In essence, any motor carriers or drivers who are required to keep records of duty service (RODS) must comply with the ELD mandate. 

Who is exempt from the ELD Mandate?

According to the FMCSA’s website, the only exemption to the ELD mandate is:

“Drivers who use the time card exception, and don’t keep paper RODs, will NOT be required to use ELDs.

The following drivers may keep PAPER RODS:

What is the deadline to comply with the ELD Mandate?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published the final electronic logging device rule — or ELD Mandate – in December 2015, and the first deadline to comply passed in December 2017.  Fleets had until December 2017 to implement certified ELDs to record HOS.  Those that were already equipped with electronic logging technology (AOBRDs) before December 2017, have until December 2019 to make the switch over to ELD-compliant devices.

What are the Advantages of ELDs?

Reduce idling

Improve driving skills

Avoid Driver Fatigue

Slash insurance costs

Eliminate Paperwork

What are the Disadvantages of ELDs?

ELDs can be Expensive

Privacy Concerns

Limited Editing Possibilities

Learning Curve and Troubleshooting

Decreased availability of parking spaces due to drivers being subject to comply with HOS Regulations.

ELDs must be purchased only through FMCSA certified manufactures

Matrack provides easy to use electronic logbook devices for trucks that allow drivers to log DOT-compliant HOS, claim unassigned driving hours, voice-based ELD status change, low fuel notifications, and effective accident reporting.

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Miles

Inside Sales Rep

Hi, my name is Miles. Please let me know if I can help you find the solution that best fits your needs.

miles@matrackinc.com
(925) 230-4530

I am here to help. Let me know if you have any questions.

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