We make ELD easier ELD compliance solution

Why The Need for ELDs?

You might be asking why ELDs are still needed if you have the Geotab GO9 device that transmits data to your MyGeotab software (i.e. telematics system).  Well, your vehicles need ELDs because it is mandated by the law.

The ELD mandate is congressionally mandated, in order to create a safer environment for long-haul drivers in Canada.  In short, it is intended to provide businesses with fleet safety.

It is important to note that the driving hours of commercial drivers in Canada are regulated by a set of laws known as the Hours of Service or in short, the HOS.  

The ELD, which is an electronic hardware (tablet), is connected to the vehicle’s engine, with the capacity to record information. This information is then sent to the telematics system, which in our case, is the MyGeotab software.

The ELD is the mechanism used by which fleet operators adhere to the set of rules set by the Hours of Service regulation.  Even if your vehicles have the Geotab GO9 or any device already attached, your trucks or buses, still need to have the ELD on the engine.

Ensuring that truckers don’t drive for more than 11 hours straight, not drive for a maximum of 14 consistent hours, and that they take regular breaks, is the original purpose of the HOS rule, allowing for safer roads and ensuring the well-being of drivers.  According to the FMCA, the ELD can help to prevent accidents on the road, creating safer highways.

Before the age of ELDs, the more traditional method of recording Hours of Service was through paper logbooks.  The manual documentation of information had always been prone to error and abuses and this also proved inadequate in meeting the standards of accuracy and safety set by the FMCA.

There was also more risks for paper logbooks to get lost, whereas electronic documentation provides more secure data protection.

The FMCSA decided that ELDs would answer the problems of paper logbooks.  They also decided that responsibility for the required ELDs and meeting the requirements of HOS are the sole responsibility of the fleet operators.  Thus, it is up to the operators or business owners to decide which ELD hardware devices to use for their fleet of trucks or vehicles.

Choosing the Best ELD for Your Business

Speaking of which, how then do you choose the best ELD device for your fleet?  Choosing an ELD for your vehicles can be a tasking job (comment: “tasking job” isn’t a common expression – might be better using something else) .  With Geotab, however, you won’t have to do it alone.

With services provided by Mobilizz and our Geotab products, we have the solutions to help you with your fleet’s ELD compliance needs.  Whether your fleet is on-road or off-road, we’ve got you covered.