The ELD Mandate Effective as of April 1st : Would you pass an FMCSA Audit?

As of April 1, 2018, under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the ELD Mandate will enforce commercial drivers who are required to log Hours of Service (HOS) records of duty status (RODS) to use an electronic logging device or ELD. Those who haven’t implemented an ELD yet are already out of compliance. This technology will ensure commercial drivers comply with federal Hours of Service rules, preventing crashes and saving lives.

What are the Benefits of Using an ELD?

An electronic logging device or ELD syncs to the vehicle’s engine and automatically logs driving times. This replaces the previous paper logging process, where mistakes and exceptions were easily made. Many ELD systems can also accommodate route and map solutions, helping drivers maneuver around construction and bypass high-traffic areas. An ELD keeps the dispatcher up-to-date on a driver’s status, allowing them to plan for loads better in light of HOS compliance needs. The FMCSA understands that this process can be a financial burden on fleets. It addresses cost concerns by allowing drivers to use a smartphone, tablet, or other wireless device if it meets all of the ELD rule’s technical specifications.

Exceptions

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation FMCSA, there are some limited exceptions to the ELD rule and are listed as follows:

• Drivers who operate under the short-haul exceptions may continue using timecards; they are not required to keep RODS and will not be required to use ELDs.

• Drivers who use paper RODS for not more than 8 days out of every 30-day period.

• Drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations, in which the vehicle being driven is the commodity being delivered.

• Drivers of vehicles manufactured before 2000.

How DISA Can help

Installing an ELD is only the first step of the ELD mandate. Once you’re set-up, it’s important to properly log and maintain your Hours of Service in case of an audit. DISA Global Solutions specializes in various transportation compliance solutions, such as Hours of Service ELD log auditing and management, DOT drug & alcohol testing, DOT background checks, licensing and permitting, fuel tax reporting, etc. Maintaining transportation compliance will keep your drivers safe on the road, as well as those driving around them.

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