Electronic logs: unlocking the benefits for trucking

The FMCSA's implementation deadline came and went, passing in December 2017. However, interest in electronic logs (E logs) remains high in the trucking industry.

Jeff Simon, who owns DOT Safety Plus, explains the benefits of electronic log software. These benefits extend beyond simply complying with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. He suggests that ELDs (electronic logging devices) grant businesses real-time data access. When utilized effectively, this leads to a competitive advantage.

See also: What is an electronic logbook?

Electronic logs for truckers:  this data is a game-changer for companies

Access to trucking elog data in trucking offers numerous benefits for monitoring drivers and fleet performance. The United States Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) research highlights safety improvements resulting from e log trucking devices.

Combining fleet management with commercial vehicles helps plan routes better and track deliveries and driving time in real-time. This enhances overall productivity and efficiency for carriers.

Key benefits of elogs trucking carriers include:

• Streamlined HOS compliance tracking and custom report generation
• Error correction capabilities during compliance audits
• Enhanced routing and customer service with geo-fencing
• Expedited billing via POD scanning, reducing paperwork
• GPS-assisted IFTA and IRP mileage reporting
• Predictive maintenance enabled by remote engine monitoring
• Real-time tracking of fuel usage, miles driven, idle time, and driving habits
• Safety monitoring alerts for speeding, erratic driving, hard braking, and tailgating
• Accurate record of duty status RODs and time logging to minimize errors
• Engine hour monitoring for maintenance scheduling and vehicle analyzing

E-logs improve truck driver safety and productivity

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) enhance driver safety and well-being. The use of E logs mitigates driver fatigue and protects drivers from harassment.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, this rule aims to make the roads safer for everyone.

Simon emphasizes that ELDs will bolster lean transportation practices. By applying Lean Transportation principles, carriers can identify and address areas of waste in their operations. Real-time performance tracking against company standards or national benchmarks highlights significant potential savings. With increasing data availability, more meaningful benchmarks will emerge over time.

See also: What is an ELD?

Electronic logs add to cost-savings for carriers

Per Transport Canada's cost benefit analysis, the benefits of implementing trucking E logs surpass the initial costs. For example, the FMCSA showcases a large private fleet that saved $18,000 per year just on document scanning by switching to driver E logs. The amount of savings varies based on factors like fleet size and type.

E logs lead to cost savings by:

• Boosting productivity, fuel efficiency, and safety
• Lowering collision rates
• Saving time and costs through reduced paperwork and administrative tasks

Adherence to hours of service rules can boost cost savings by reducing fines, accidents, and liability claims. In 2015, the FMCSA reported 4320 closed enforcement cases, resulting in $33,751,234 in penalties. Of these, violations of 49 CFR Part 395 accounted for 979 cases, with penalties totaling $10,167,733. ELDs provide a solution to mitigate most of these violations, thus lowering associated costs.

How much do elog devices cost?

The price of electronic logs can differ based on features, provider, and included services.

How do electronic logs work?

Electronic logs track a driver's work and rest periods automatically. They connect to the vehicle's engine to do this. The system gives log data to authorities for safety. Electronic log apps offer numerous benefits, such as compatibility with driver devices, lower initial costs, and easier installation.

What is the difference between an ELD and elog?

An ELD is also known as an elog, e-log, electronic log device, or electronic log book.

A solution that works

Geotab Drive is a mobile app usable on Android and iOS devices. It encompasses features for Driver Vehicle Inspections DVIR, HOS, messaging, and driver identification with electronic logbook app functions.

Geotab Drive is a driver platform that drivers can customize with extra features using an ELD Solution. Its automatic over-the-air updates alleviate the need for manual device updates by managers and drivers.

Elogs app function also notifies when vehicle drivers have not logged in.

Related posts:

ELD Tips for Drivers: Going from Paper Logs to Electronic

How Geotab Cloud ELD Works

While Geotab recognizes our place as a self-registered ELD manufacturer and provider and we will answer questions regarding those Hours of Service (HOS) ruleset options we provide, neither Geotab nor any of its employees, officers or agents can offer legal advice to any resellers or customers concerning which HOS ruleset(s) or exemption(s) may apply to any particular situation. Please contact your local DOT department or refer to the FMCSA website at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ for questions Geotab is unable to answer.

This blog was originally published on October 16th, 2016