ELD Mandate Guidance

Confused by some of the requirements in the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate? You’re not alone! The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released new guidance on some of the confusing elements to help clear the air.

Guidance on the Requirements

In late February, the FMCSA provided some clarification on a number of the ELD mandate requirements that were outlined in the Final Rule. Here’s a run-down of what you need to know to run in compliance with the ELD mandate:

AOBRDs

Under the ELD mandate, there are two compliance deadlines you should be aware of. These deadlines are determined by how you are currently creating records of duty status (RODS).

Currently using paper logs or an electronic logbook?
You need to transition to an electronic logging device by December 19, 2017
Currently using an automatic onboard recording device?
You need to transition to an electronic logging device by December 16, 2019

Many companies are opting for the second deadline date. By getting an AOBRD now you get an additional two years before you need to get and use an ELD. ELDs are a lot more locked down than an AOBRD.

With an AOBRD, you can continue to have flexibility, the ability to edit your logs, and time to become comfortable and confident with this new way of logging – it make a lot of sense to go with an AOBRD first and then decide when you’re ready to make the full transition. BigRoad’s DashLink is an excellent option to take advantage of this rule. Get it now, run it as an AOBRD, and then decide when you want to transition! You can run AOBRD right up until December 17, 2019 or make the switch sooner (with a simple software download, no additional cost).

Moving AOBRDs Between Vehicles

A common question here is: can I move an AOBRD from one vehicle to another after December 18, 2017? If you’re using an AOBRD by December 18, 2017 and you replace your vehicle with a new one, you can install your existing AOBRD. It’s important to remember that after December 18, 2017, you cannot buy and install a new AOBRD. You need to have an AOBRD before this date.

Inspections and Audits

With the two compliance dates listed above, both AOBRDs and ELDs will be used from December 18, 2017 – December 16, 2019. How are inspectors and safety officials going to manage auditing logs on both platforms?

ELDs will be inspected and enforced as outlined in the ELD Final Rule. AOBRDs will be held to the requirements in 49 CFR 395.15. Drivers will need to have the required supporting documentation with them on December 18, 2017.

Presenting Logs

If you make the decision to transition to ELDs the week before the deadline date, how are you supposed to show your record of duty status? Do you need to do this on an ELD? According to the FMCSA, you will not be required to present your RODs on an ELD from December 11-17, 2017. You will have to present your previous 7 days of RODs via one of the following:

Paper logs
Print out from your ELD
Displayed on an electronic logging application with signature capabilities
AOBRD

How BigRoad Can Help

Whether you’re an owner-operator or a fleet of hundreds, BigRoad’s got your back when it comes to compliance. Put yourself in control with DashLink ELD. Go full ELD or run as an AOBRD until you’re ready to make the transition. Request a demo today to see how the DashLink ELD can get your fleet on the path to compliance.