While you may be mandated to use Electronic Logging Devices, the data from your ELDs can achieve much more than hours of service compliance. It’s also about maximizing your operational efficiency. And, with a comprehensive ELD system in place, you and the industry are full throttle for years ahead.
Which data is logged?
Although ELDs were first developed to monitor Hours of Service, the FMCSA also mandates that they auto-record location information, engine hours, vehicle miles as well as identification information for drivers, authenticated users, vehicles, and motor carriers.
Many ELDs go further to log HOS violations, duty status, GPS locations, configurations, fuel, speed, hard braking/cornering, idling times, exempt miles, and vehicle inspections. As if those weren’t enough, geofencing reporting constantly records the number of visits, turnaround time on-site, total time on-site and more.
Robust systems such as EROAD’s facilitate proactive fleet and risk management tools to optimize efficiency. These all-encompassing ELD devices and software now provide a digital window into how you may significantly extend your equipment lifecycles, too.
The many advantages of harvesting ELD data
Naturally, everyone’s safety should be the top concern. But, proactively managing your fleet can do far more than lower your CSA scores. ELD data will reveal hazardous speeds, hard braking and cornering. Even excessive idling times are reported in some systems.
On the administrative side, ELD data is easily trackable and helps you compile payroll figures and other valuable reports. For fleets operating in a state with a weight mileage tax, ELDs should also provide any exempt mileage. Beyond how vehicle configuration data simplifies reporting, ELDs assist with vehicle inspections. And, of course, a real plus is how they monitor fuel usage, so you can watch your bottom line for the short or long haul.
Even when an ELD usage is optional, the GPS location feature is invaluable from the top down. Always knowing where your trucks are is essential, and newer, sophisticated ELD systems are most beneficial with accident investigations, cutting detention time with shippers and receivers, and assessing customer satisfaction.
At the touch of a button, GPS can often locate stolen equipment, too. A nice bonus, right?
Geofencing data points
Having the ability to quickly and easily examine the number of visits, turnaround time onsite and total time onsite is enabling fleet owners and management to capture far more efficiency.
Countless ways now exist for geofencing to implement greater efficiencies while improving road safety, aiding not only the trucking industry and government, but third parties like the insurance industry. It can provide proof of service that customers or the authorities demand at any given moment.
For your own operation, taking a moment to share even a few of the geofence data results with your drivers is where the rubber can literally meet the pavement. For example, letting them know their idle times can help them be more mindful while cutting your costs.
You can also filter geofencing notifications and schedule the reports to hit your inboxes as needed. That’s a custom feature everyone seems to agree on.
Four categories to eagle eye
ELD reports help you monitor the efficiency in four areas: your fleet, drivers, tax info, and fuel. With remarkable accuracy, you can spot any inconsistencies and determine where there’s room for improvement. Best of all, you can realistically anticipate challenges, pull out the stops, and turn your losses into more profit.
The best ELD systems also coincide with the constant need for driver training, and the ongoing coaching and development of your whole organization. Though not all employees welcome ELD technology many say they appreciate learning what they weren’t aware of. For instance, many drivers like how they can be safer while cutting costs, shortening their time on the road and enduring less stress. Something their loved ones appreciate, too.
ELD technology is here to stay. The information is there – you are data rich, whether you knew it or not. Just be sure you have the right team member reviewing the data and using it appropriately.
