Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) and Commercial Trucking
An electronic logging device (ELD) is an essential piece of equipment for commercial truck drivers. It connects to the truck’s TMS system and automatically gathers important data, which is then stored and accessed through the Vehicle Interface Device (VID).
Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are designed to promote a safer working environment for truck drivers. They monitor drivers’ Hours of Service (HOS) to help prevent fatigue, accurately record duty status (driving, on-duty, and off-duty), and provide reliable data for inspections, with penalties such as fines for non-compliance. ELD use is mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which requires carriers to install ELDs that are registered and approved by the FMCSA to remain compliant.
Why ELD Compliance is Important
ELD compliance is mandated by the FMCSA, and failure to comply can result in serious consequences, including hefty fines of up to $10,000 per violation, Out-of-Service orders, and higher insurance premiums. Small- to medium-sized carriers are especially impacted by ELD requirements, as most large carriers have already been using ELDs since the late 2010s. With razor-thin profit margins in the trucking industry, investing in new equipment or processes has been particularly challenging for many smaller carriers.
Why Do Small Carriers Need TMS with ELD Integration?
As of 2018 in the United States and June 2021 in Canada, the ELD mandate has been fully enforced for all trucking companies, requiring them to manage driver logs and Hours of Service (HOS). To streamline this process, transportation management system (TMS) providers have developed integration options with ELDs, creating a more seamless and efficient workflow.
Here are just a few more reasons why having access to this technology is so important:
- An ELD with TMS integration can help reduce the amount of HOS paperwork drivers have to complete, saving a small carrier fleet time each day.
- It can accurately keep track of drive time because it records minute-by-minute. The data collected also includes time for rest breaks and other stops.
- It helps eliminate the human errors that could cost a small carrier, greatly.
In the trucking industry, driving logs are critically important. For example, a truck’s driving log can serve as key evidence in accident claims. Because ELD data cannot be altered, it can be analyzed to determine whether a driver was operating responsibly—such as taking required rest breaks—or violating driving time limits. Without access to this crucial information, even a single accident could be enough to force a small carrier to shut down operations.
A TMS software with ELD integration is an essential tool for capturing and maintaining this data for all drivers.
How Does PowerPRO TMS Work with ELDs?
An all-in-one TMS software connects natively with third-party ELD applications, eliminating the need for manual data entry or expensive custom integrations. Our PowerPRO software seamlessly integrates with leading ELD providers to deliver real-time load visibility, customized notifications, and the elimination of check calls from your daily tasks.
Additionally, we understand that managing a small carrier fleet is not always easy. Paperwork, driving logs, reports, deadlines, and customer demands can quickly become overwhelming. With this in mind, we continually ask how a TMS software can better support you in running your business more efficiently.
At Systems Support Inc., we are dedicated to helping small- to medium-sized carriers remain FMCSA compliant and succeed through our robust software solutions. To learn more about how our PowerPRO TMS can support your business, call us toll-free at (800) 369-5027 or contact us through our website today.
