As a trucking company owner or fleet manager, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration compliance is paramount. The most recent regulation enacted by the FMCSA has been the mandatory use of electronic logging devices. All commercial truck drivers are required to use this logging technology to track trucks and record hours of service. To help your truck drivers better manage their new electronic logging devices, consider these tips.
Choosing the Best E-Log Device
Now that the electronic logging device ruling has been put into action, dozens of companies are coming out with their own version of an ELD. Unfortunately, not all ELDs are created equally or approved by the FMCSA.
Before you purchase electronic logging devices for your entire fleet, check the FMCSA list of registered ELDs. Here you can search by:
- Device name
- Model number
- Software version
- ELD identifier
- Company
One thing to be aware of, companies manufacturing e-logging devices are self-certified. This could be an issue down the road if the company is proven to falsely certify its devices.
Practice Prior to Use
Before a driver goes over the road with an ELD they need to become familiar with this type of logging system. The FMCSA provides a detailed resource for using ELDs that can help new drivers or drivers with new e-logging devices.
Keep in mind, the full compliance of the ELD mandate does not take place until April 1, 2018. On that date, the Department of Transportation inspectors will begin enforcing proper record keeping with ELDs for roadside and random inspections.
Mount E-Log Tablets
While truck drivers are not permitted to use mobile devices while driving, they are allowed to use ELD tablets. These devices could prove a distraction and truck driver safety hazard if not displayed efficiently. This is where a proper mounting system for ELDs is highly desirable. Here is what to look for:
- You want to find a mounting setup that will not damage the interior of a truck, which will decrease its value.
- By choosing a mounting base that securely snaps into a dashboard, this maintains the integrity of a truck’s interior.
Here at ProClip, we offer custom-fit mounting solutions for truck fleets using ELDs. Our high-quality materials and proprietary designs are ideal for the rugged work environment of a truck driver. Browse the ProClip selection of mounts well suited for transportation, logistics, trucking, and delivery vehicles.
