ELD Rule Deadline Approaches for Trucking Companies

Trucking companies currently using paper logs or logging software must evaluate and select Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), ensure they are installed, and make sure all drivers and administrative staff are trained to use them by December 18, 2017 (December 16, 2019 for carriers using automatic onboard recording devices or AOBRDs).

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration believes that ELDs will simplify the way that drivers keep their logs, reduce errors, improve safety and compliance, and help better manage schedules and location information for tracking purposes. The rule imposes stricter enforcement of the rules limiting drivers’ driving time and on-duty hours per day. Because of this, industry observers are concerned that the ELD mandate will lead to reduced trucking capacity and likely higher rates.