Do you use any form of an electronic logbook in your operation?
An Overdrive survey from a year ago showed minimal e-logging by owner-operators. After that, many larger fleets added ELD systems to get a jump on compliance before Dec. 18, 2017, but some independent owner-operators have yet to install an ELD.
Since the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s late 2015 release of its final rule for using electronic logging devices, there’s been a rising swell of ELD development. Customers can choose from hardware and software options offered by dozens of vendors, many of them new to the trucking industry.
This also means serious preparation on the enforcement side. FMCSA has reported delays implementing its roadside data-transfer system by which officers will interface electronically with any of these systems. Nevertheless, the agency expected to have it in place prior to April 1, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s scheduled enforcement date for using electronic logs.
Fleet-focused onboard devices offer a lot of bells and whistles, but independent owner-operators are likely to gravitate to a baseline-compliance device. They can benefit from additional functions such as IFTA data collection, making mileage tracking automatic and easily reportable.
As you’re making your decision, consider these issues:
