FMCSA recently created a new resource that drivers who are using ELDs can put straight to work. ELD: A Guide for Drivers and Motor Carriers, walks drivers through a step-by-step process on how to easily transfer their hours-of-service logbook data to safety officials during a roadside inspection.

This simple, four-part guide was designed to be printed and attached on or to the CMV visor, so it’s always within the driver’s reach and instantly available when needed. It provides a high-level overview of the various data transfer processes along with troubleshooting tips for common issues that might arise.

Fast-glance-friendly —

Each section can be easily navigated while a driver is learning the step-by-step process for their ELD’s transfer method or can be used later as a quick reference guide. No need to ever wonder what’s the right way to transfer logs and risk being flagged. This guide helps avoid those headaches and more by helping to alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that can occur with inspections.

Sections feature basic overviews and the key steps of the transfer process. Instructions and troubleshooting are presented for each data transfer method: telematics (hardwired), Bluetooth and USB connections.

THE GOAL: Greater safety and a higher transfer rate of quality data —

Having a reliable connection not only helps drivers do what they do best — drive. It also delivers more reliable data. Using hardwired ELDs like EROAD’s, whose device utilizes the telematics transfer option method via wireless web services and email, maintain the most consistent connection as they are hardwired to the ECM of the CMV (instead of relying upon the sometimes spotty Bluetooth enabled devices or slower USB connections).

Other advantages to the telematics transfer method —

ELDs using the telematics transfer method boot up in seconds and auto-update their firmware, a huge advantage to both truckers and management. What professional driver wants to wait on updates to finish installing, especially at truck stops where multiple Bluetooth devices may often interrupt their attempts to sync their ELDs? That’s more than frustrating. It’s also costly!

Make sure to print and distribute copies of ELD: A Guide for Drivers and Motor Carriers for your whole fleet. They’ll be glad, and so will you.

*Please note: The guide is strictly intended for ELDs. AOBRDs do not support these methods of data transfer.

Susan Reszczynski

Safety & Compliance Manager
Susan is responsible for the development and execution of EROAD's robust training program in the U.S. With over 10 years’ experience in the regulatory environment, Susan brings knowledge from both carrier and driver perspectives. Susan’s main objective is bridging the gap between customers, product developers, enforcement and regulators to ensure compliance and safety is achieved quickly, easily and with lasting results.

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FMCSA’s driver-friendly guide to ELD data transfers

by | Dec 13, 2018 | ,

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