On August 9, Danielle Smith, a transportation specialist from the FMCSA’s passenger carrier division, reminded law enforcement officers that electronic logging devices (ELDs) should be registered with the FMCSA.

“It’s not an ELD unless it’s listed on our website,” Smith said during the North American Inspectors Championship, hosted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. “That’s going to be part of what you do during an inspection; you’re going to verify that it is a registered ELD.”

During her presentation, Smith talked about the procedures concerning ELD data transfers through wireless platforms like USB ports, Bluetooth, or email.

She said carriers should replace or repair an ELD within eight days of an ELD malfunction. Other speakers advocating for the use of ELDs encouraged drivers not to fear the technology, pointing out the benefits that come from using an electronic logging device.

Electronic logging devices – the benefits

Those who have yet to transition to ELDs should understand that the devices can help you:

  • Stay compliant with the ELD rule
  • Avoid major truck maintenance issues
  • Reduce fuel expenses by reducing idling and fuel waste
  • Improve CSA scores
  • Avoid road crashes and increase fleet safety
  • Reduce paperwork and the costs associated with it
  • Identify dangerous driving behaviors and rectify them
  • Comply with hours-of-service regulations
  • Provide real-time alerts for upcoming HOS violations

These are just a few of many ELD benefits. Depending on the ELD features, fleets can achieve so much more.

Motive, an FMCSA-registered ELD

The Motive electronic logging device is FMCSA-registered and listed in the FMCSA’s list of self-certified ELDs. You can be confident in choosing Motive as your partner for ELD mandate compliance and beyond. Learn more about the Motive ELD.