What Are You Doing with Your ELD Data?
FreightWaves recently interviewed Daren Hansen, CTP, CTRE, Senior Compliance Expert at J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. The discussion centered on how carriers approach Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data.
ELDs became mandatory for drivers under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours-of-service rules in December 2017. These devices record driving time, engine hours, vehicle movement, and driver identification to ensure compliance with regulations limiting daily and weekly driving hours.
Hansen highlighted a growing divide among carriers. Some use ELDs only to meet the minimum federal mandate. Others actively analyze ELD data to improve operations, safety, and efficiency.
Drivers at basic-compliance carriers log hours as required but rarely see data used beyond FMCSA audits. This approach satisfies regulators but misses opportunities for operational insights.
In contrast, advanced carriers pull reports from ELD systems to monitor fleet performance. Common uses include:
- Identifying inefficient routes based on idle time and driving patterns.
- Tracking driver behavior to reduce risky maneuvers like harsh braking.
- Optimizing maintenance schedules through engine hour data.
- Forecasting fuel costs with detailed mileage and speed records.
ELD data integrates with telematics platforms, providing real-time visibility into vehicle location, speed, and status. Professional drivers benefit directly when carriers share these insights, such as personalized coaching on fuel-efficient driving or alerts for potential fatigue.
Hansen noted that FMCSA enforcement is increasing. Recent actions target carriers with inaccurate logs or repeated violations. Audits now scrutinize ELD data more closely, with roadside inspections using mobile apps to verify compliance instantly.
For drivers, this means reliable ELD use prevents violations that could lead to out-of-service orders or fines. Carriers leveraging data reduce these risks while gaining a competitive edge in safety ratings and insurance premiums.
Context on ELDs: The mandate stemmed from efforts to curb fatigue-related crashes. Drivers must certify logs daily, and malfunctions require paper logs within eight days. Approved ELDs must meet FMCSA standards for tamper resistance and data transfer.
Hansen emphasized that data-driven carriers scale operations effectively. They use ELD analytics to dispatch smarter loads, balance driver workloads, and comply proactively. Independent drivers or small fleets can access similar tools through affordable ELD providers.
Professional drivers should verify their carrier’s ELD strategy. Ask how data is reviewed and what reports are generated. This ensures the system supports safe, efficient runs rather than just checking a compliance box.
As enforcement ramps up, carriers ignoring ELD potential face higher scrutiny. Those integrating data into daily decisions position drivers for safer roads and better pay opportunities through improved fleet performance.
The interview underscores a key shift in trucking compliance. ELDs are no longer just record-keepers; they are tools for operational excellence when used fully.