By the end of 2017 motor carriers will be mandated to switch from paper logs to Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs). Though this is a big change for carriers large and small, this mandate will create an industry standard and increase the safety of truck drivers and everyone on the roads. 
ELD systems synchronize with a vehicle’s engine to automatically record driving time, for easier, more accurate hours of service recordings, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) website.
About the Electronic Logging Device Rule
According to the FMCSA website, this rule does the following:
- Specifies who is covered by the rule and exceptions to it
- Provides for ELDS to be certified, registered, and listed on a FMCSA website
- Includes technical specifications to ensure ELDs are standardized and compliant
- Includes a phased implementation timeline to give drivers and carriers time to comply
- Includes provisions to help prevent data tampering and harassment of drivers
- Creates standard data displays and data transfer processes, making it easier to demonstrate compliance and faster to share record of duty status with safety officials.
Rule Impacts on Carriers and Drivers
Carriers and drivers that are required to adhere to this mandate will need to install and use ELDs by the following dates, according to the FMCSA website:
- If they are currently using paper logs or logging software, no later than December 18, 2017
- If they are using AOBRDS (automatic onboard recording devices) prior to compliance date, must transfer no later than December 16, 2017.
Why ELDs?
There are many reasons why this mandate has gone into effect and why numerous companies are making the switch to ELDs before the official transition date. Here are a few of those reasons:
- These systems are easy to use. Though there is a learning curve, especially for those drivers who are older or late to adopters of new technology, the technology not only is more accurate than paper logs, but it also allows improved communication with DOT officers on the road, according to KeepTruckin Blog.
- ELogs are more convenient. Logging apps record information automatically which not only makes it convenient for the driver, but also makes the information visible to fleets in real time. Also, drivers will no longer have to worry about misplacing their logs, which will make everyone more accountable.
- These logs provide reduced liability for motor carriers. Even the best drivers can make mistakes when using written logs. When a driver receives a violation, eLogs will take away the what “might” of happened factor, everyone will know exactly what happened, which will reduce the number of lawsuits, according to KeepTruckin Blog.
Though switching to ELD is and will continue to be a big change for many companies, the positive effect this will have on the trucking industry will be unreal. For more information on ELDs, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov.