On December 18, 2017, the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate will take full effect. This mandate aims to make it “faster and easier to accurately track, manage and share records of duty status (RODS) data.” It applies to interstate operators, hazmat carriers, vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or more, and most fleets using RODS.
If the rule applies to your fleet you have just a few months to get your drivers up and running with an automatic onboard recording device (AOBRD) or other ELD final rule solution. If you haven’t started planning, now is the time to develop a technology rollout plan.
Here are four steps to get you started:
- Select a GPS Tracking provider whose product supports full Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) compliance.Make sure that the provider is knowledgeable about how to support ELD regulations with an easy-to-use solution that’s easy to integrate into your current operations. You also should aim for products that give you a return on your investment in the form of savings and productivity.
- Help drivers understand the new tools. Make sure the drivers understand that this new technology will help them maintain ELD compliance. They will gain more control over time, letting them create, edit and manage their own hours – plus, the tracking system gives them ways to help stay compliant, including Hours of Service (HOS) compliance tools; real-time driver feedback; driver vehicle inspection reports; and IFTA mileage reporting.
- Implement an employee coaching program to increase engagement. The best way to maintain ELD compliance and help make your rollout a success is through effective and consistent driver coaching – your guys aren’t going to get better if they don’t know what they’re doing wrong.
- Don’t make ELD compliance sound like something employees have to do because it helps the business. Show drivers how it helps them, too. Coach, encourage and repeat, and your company will be well on its way to compliance.
To learn more about the ELD mandate and what it means, download the free e-book, “The 5W’s of ELD.”