Many companies are implementing electronic logging devices (ELDs) to streamline safety and compliance for their entire fleet. Switching from paper logs to electronic logs can seem very intimidating to drivers and many will have their reservations when utilizing this technology. Many drivers feel like ELDs are just another way for big brother to look over their shoulder. However, we have found that once drivers start using ELDs they feel very differently. After the initial resistance, drivers start to realize that using an ELD actually saves them time and makes their jobs easier.
Here are six reasons why drivers like using ELDs:
1. Reduce Paperwork and Reporting Time
With ELDs, driver’s no longer have waste valuable time completing paper forms and calculating driver hours. The Pedigree’s Fleet Management pulls diagnostic information from the engine to help drivers automatically record their hours-of-service (HOS) data. ELDs also ensure that all hours are accurate and error-free so they can be used as a solid defense in case you are asked to drive more hours than you have available.
2. Stay FMCSA Compliant
Staying compliant is one of the main concerns for most drivers and business operators. When compliance is not met, many penalties and fines arise and question the integrity of the entire business. When drivers are nearing their on-duty limit, automated alarms are triggered on the device, ensuring can find a place to pull over in time. Dispatchers or fleet managers can also utilize the system to effectively dispatch drivers to jobs, knowing exactly how many driving hours they have remaining for the trip.
3. Add Driving Time To Your Day
If you’re still using paper logs, then you know the FMCSA requires drivers to round up driving time in 15-minute increments, which can lead to lost driving time. With ELDs, drivers are able to record their HOS to the nearest minute, adding more driving time to their day. This coupled with the time savings drivers see by not having to fill out manual logs, can add an additional 5-10 hours of driving time each week.
4. Breeze Through Inspections
Before each trip, drivers are required to fill out a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Many of you know the hassle of having to check each box as you walk around your truck. With a system like ours, you can breeze through this process with an electronic form that allows you to select only areas of concern. Electronic inspections ensure that you never misplace paperwork and home office staff will never have to wait for weeks to receive it. The in-cab device can also be used in the event of a traffic stop, to help officers quickly see any log violations and be on their way.
5. Stay in Touch with the Home Office
Relying on cell phones to communicate with drivers is a very unsafe, and in some cases illegal, method. Some ELD systems provide other functionality via the tablet or Smartphone, such as two-way messaging. On the same device that a driver uses as an ELD, they can receive safe and simple messages from the home office. Drivers are unable to read messages until they are completely stopped, ensuring FMCSA compliance. With the other features and functionality, you can make real-time updates to stops and communicate with customers more accurately.
6. Recreational Use of Mobile Devices
When you’re on a long road trip, there is often a lot of downtime while waiting in line for a delivery or when you’re off-duty. During these times, staying entertained and keeping in touch with family can sometimes be difficult. If you select a provider that does NOT have proprietary devices, then you are able to use the same tablet or Smartphone you use as an ELD to stay in touch with family, play a game or watch a movie.