New electronic logging device law

New "ELD" law for trucking companies

As of December 31, 2017, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will require all transportation companies using AOBRD’s (automatic onboard recording devices) to use the Electronic Logging Device (ELD). The ELD rule sets performance and design standards, and requires ELDs to be certified and registered with FMCSA. This new device is intended to help create a safer work environment for drivers, and make it easier, faster to accurately track, manage, and share records of duty status data (RODS).

This rule applies to most carriers and drivers who are required to maintain RODS. The ELD Rule impacts Carriers and Drivers who are subject to the rule must install and use ELDs by the appropriate deadline:

• Carriers and drivers who are using paper logs or logging software must transition to ELDs no later than December 18, 2017. 

• Carriers and drivers who use AOBRDS prior to the compliance date must transition to ELDs no later than December 16, 2019.

Drivers must understand and be able to use ELDs by the required deadline, including how to annotate and edit RODS, certify RODS, and collect required supporting documents. You will also need to know how to display and transfer data to safety officials when requested.

The ELD rule also applies to commercial buses as well as trucks, and to Canada and Mexico domiciled drivers. The ELD rule allows limited exceptions to the ELD mandate, including:

• Drivers who operate under the short-haul exceptions may continue using timecards; they are not required to keep RODS and will not be required to use ELDs. 

• Drivers who use paper RODSs for not more than 8 days out of every 30-day period. • Drive-away/tow-away drivers (transporting an empty vehicle for sale, lease, or repair). 

• Drivers of vehicles manufactured before model year 2000.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 916-989-7776.

Sincerely, 

Jennifer Reynolds 
CEO