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Regulations

ELD (Electronic Logging Device)

A device that electronically records driving time and Hours of Service.

Definition

An Electronic Logging Device is an electronic hardware device attached to a commercial motor vehicle's engine to automatically record driving time. ELDs replaced paper logbooks for most CDL drivers under the FMCSA's ELD mandate. The device tracks on-duty, off-duty, driving, and sleeper berth time. Popular ELD providers include KeepTruckin (Motive), Samsara, and Omnitracs.

Why it matters to you

The ELD is why you cannot drive your way out of a bad dispatch any more. It logs your hours automatically, so a plan that needs an extra half hour simply will not happen. On the upside, it is also your evidence: detention, breakdowns and shipper delays are all on the record, which matters when you are arguing for detention pay or defending your log at a roadside inspection.

FAQ

What does ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mean?

A device that electronically records driving time and Hours of Service.

Why does ELD (Electronic Logging Device) matter to a driver?

The ELD is why you cannot drive your way out of a bad dispatch any more. It logs your hours automatically, so a plan that needs an extra half hour simply will not happen. On the upside, it is also your evidence: detention, breakdowns and shipper delays are all on the record, which matters when you are arguing for detention pay or defending your log at a roadside inspection.

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