Electronic Logging
In the trucking industry, it is always highly important to make sure your company stays compliant with regulations. In fact, this isn’t only a strict legal requirement, but a critical component of successful fleet management and company integrity. One area where compliance is especially crucial is the use of Electronic Logging Devices.
These tools, often called ELDs, have become an integral part of modern trucking operations. At Vehicle Licensing Consultants, we want to help you understand the key considerations that all trucking companies should keep in mind when selecting an ELD.
The Importance of an Electronic Logging Device in Trucking
Electronic Logging Devices have revolutionized the way trucking companies manage their drivers’ hours of service (HOS) and maintain compliance with various government regulations. These helpful devices not only simplify the record-keeping process, but also enhance overall safety on the roads by preventing fatigue-related accidents and making sure that drivers adhere to legal driving limits.
The All-Too-Common Pitfalls of Revoked ELDs
Unfortunately, the market is flooded with various ELD options, and not all of them live up to the standards set by regulatory agencies. Some ELDs have faced revocation in recent years due to non-compliance issues. This has led to a great deal of legal troubles for certain trucking companies that have become reliant on them.
The revocation of many different ELD’s only highlights the need for thorough research and consideration when choosing an ELD for your company in order to avoid unnecessary complications down the road.
VLC’s Tripdawg Department and the Geotab Advantage
Amidst the many variety of ELD options, there is one option that stands out above the rest. Our Tripdawg department at VLC highly recommends the Geotab Electronic Logging Device to fleet companies across the United States. Unlike some of its counterparts, the Geotab tracker has never faced revocation, offering trucking companies a reliable and compliant solution for their HOS management needs.
Benefits of Choosing Geotab Tracker
Reliability and Compliance: Geotab’s ELD is built with a commitment to reliability and compliance. Its track record of never being revoked reflects the company’s dedication to meeting and exceeding industry standards.
Advanced GPS Tracking: The Geotab GPS tracker provides real-time location data, allowing fleet managers to optimize routes, enhance efficiency, and improve overall logistics.
User-Friendly Interface: Geotab’s user-friendly interface ensures that drivers can easily navigate and log their hours without unnecessary complications, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring accurate record-keeping.
Customizable Solutions: Geotab tracker offers a range of customizable features that cater to the specific needs of different trucking companies, providing flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry.
Contact us at VLC to Simplify Your Operations with Geotab GPS
Selecting the right Electronic Logging Device has proven to be a pivotal decision for trucking companies looking to maintain compliance, improve safety, and improve their day to day operations. With VLC’s Tripdawg department endorsing the Geotab ELD, trucking companies can rest assured that they are choosing a reliable and reputable solution that has never been revoked.
The Geotab Electronic Logging Device not only meets regulatory standards, but also goes above and beyond to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly experience. It is hands down the best choice for those seeking the optimal ELD solution for their fleet management needs.
Feel free to contact us with any questions or to get started with Geotab today by calling (530) 637-1696 or by emailing info@im4trux.com.
DOT Compliance, Driver Qualification File Management, Electronic Logging
In today’s fast-paced digital age, registration service companies in the transportation industry face numerous challenges when it comes to managing and processing large volumes of data efficiently. The need for reliable and user-friendly software solutions has never been greater. This is where GW Connect software can help. Designed specifically for transportation companies, GW Connect offers a wide range of features and benefits that can transform the way your business operates from personnel management to fleet vehicle management. At Vehicle Licensing Consultants we offer GW Connect software to our clients because we believe it is the most valuable program for fleet registration service companies, revolutionizing processes and enhancing overall productivity.
A Fleet Vehicle Management with a Seamless Registration Process
GW Connect software simplifies processes by providing a centralized platform that automates various tasks. From managing customer information to automating DMV and agency forms, the GW Connect software streamlines the entire workflow system. The program works with Adobe reader so that DMV forms can be easily auto filled or edited. By eliminating manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors and misplaced paperwork, transportation companies can save valuable time and resources, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for all when it comes to personnel and fleet vehicle management.
Customization and Flexibility for Your Unique Business
Every transportation company has unique needs, and GW Connect software acknowledges this by offering various services and a great deal of flexibility. The software can be used to enhance specific renewal tracking and management whether it be renewal for drivers, trucks, permits, or any other approaching renewal date. This level of diversification ensures that companies can keep track of the data that is important to them at any given time and can store information digitally where it is easy to find.
Powerful Reporting and Document Management
GW Connect software provides comprehensive reporting and document management that allows fleet companies to digitize their records and keep track of documents in a secure, digital space. The “drag and drop” PDF files are easy to retrieve and stored digitally so organization is a breeze. Documents can be stored that relate to any aspect of your company from work orders and equipment data to worker certifications and customer information.
An Open API to Enable Connectivity to Other Software Solutions
We know that your company has a myriad of tools that work for you already, and GW Connect is built to be able to integrate with those tools to enhance your existing software programs. Set up is fast and easy and our expert team members are always available to answer any questions you may have.
Why Work With VLC for Fleet Vehicle Management Tools?
At Vehicle Licensing Consultants we are focused on providing your company with fleet vehicle management tools like GW Connect and DQM Connect to simplify your vehicle and personnel management. Through our innovative technology we help bring transportation companies into the 21st century by creating user friendly software programs that are simple to learn and easy to run.
Our ultimate goal is always to enhance the organization, efficiency, safety, and productivity of your business, and we look forward to helping you get started with our fleet and personnel management tools today. You can reach us by calling 530-637-1696 or emailing info@im4trux.com. Feel free to sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about our latest offerings as well.
Electronic Logging, FMCSA
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes minimum performance and design standards for hours-of-service (HOS) electronic logging devices (ELDs). On June 24, 2022, FMCSA removed the ArionT ELD from the list of registered ELDs due to the company’s failure to meet the minimum requirements established in 49 CFR part 395, subpart B, appendix A. Motor carriers and drivers using ArionT ELDs have 60 days to replace the revoked devices with compliant ELDs.
Here are the specifics of the affected ELD product, model #, and ELD identifier:
ELD Name: ArionT ELD
Model number: AT5000
ELD Identifier: AR1ONT
ELD Provider: Arion Tech Inc.
This device now appears on FMCSA’s Revoked Devices list.
Motor carriers and drivers who use the ArionT device must take the following actions:
- Discontinue using the revoked device(s) and revert to paper logs or other logging software to record required hours of service data.
- Replace the revoked device(s) with compliant ELD(s) from the Registered Devices list before August 24, 2022.
These required actions provide motor carriers with up to 60 days to replace their ArionT devices with compliant ELDs.
Motor carriers and drivers who continue to use the revoked ArionT device listed above on or after August 24, 2022, will be in violation and drives will be placed out-of-service in accordance with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) OOS Criteria.
If Arion Tech Inc. corrects all identified deficiencies, the FMCSA will place the device back on the Registered Devices list and inform the industry and the field of the status change. However, FMCSA strongly encourages motor carriers to take the actions listed above now to avoid compliance issues should these deficiencies continue past the 60-day grace period.
Vehicle Licensing Consultants has a solution for you. Check out the benefits of a TripDawg solution for your electronic logging needs:
- The TripDawg ELD is based on Geotab, one of the highest rated ELDs available
- TripDawg ELDs are always kept up to date with the latest technology and software releases
- TripDawg ELDs offer amazing expansion capabilities including:
- Dash Cams
- Weigh Station Bypass
- Asset tracking
- Fleet Maintenance
- Dispatch solutions
- And more!
Vehicle Licensing Consultants
A Virtual Projects, LLC Company
Fleet & Driver Compliance…Fleet Tracking Software
Driver Qualification File Management, Electronic Logging
Driver shortages hit all-time highs in 2021, making recruiting and retention a top priority for both large and small motor carriers. How can fleet managers and business leaders attract and retain drivers to fill their needs today and prepare for the demands of the future?
All employees want to feel supported by their employers, so having an employee-first (or specifically a driver-first) culture is important. Having access to the latest tools for communication, efficiency, and safety are important to them.
Offering a company culture that includes these technologies is the first step in building and maintaining a company that drivers want to become part of. Here are a few tools that are helping companies attract drivers and are helping driver stay safe, stay in touch, and efficiently complete their routes so they can return home to their families.
Becoming a Driver-First Focused Company
The right company focus that gives employees a sense of belonging, purpose, and tangible benefits is the first step toward retention. In this article, we present you with the top tools to consider in order to build that driver-first culture in your company.
Telematics Solutions
Your drivers spend most of their day behind the wheel and on the road alone. What better way to support them during the most difficult part of their job than with telematics-based software solutions that clearly offer a positive impact on driver experience and efficiency.
With mandated ELD regulations, drivers are concerned about planning their drive time accurately to avoid HOS violations. One extremely helpful tool in getting drivers home faster is a weigh station bypass system. Bypass systems not only make the driver feel cared-for and their time appreciated, but they also save the company time and money when drivers do not have to stop, produce the required information, and wait for law enforcement review. Some bypass systems offer e-inspection capabilities which streamline the process even if the driver is required to stop. Inspection time can be reduced from over a half hour to just minutes, enabling the driver to get back on the road more quickly.
Electronic Driver Qualification File Management
Another impressive tool that speeds onboarding and seasonal hiring, is online driver qualification file software. Online access for applying, re-hire, and getting the necessary documentation for compliance helps companies streamline their operations and present themselves to prospective employees in a professional and organization manner.
These driver qualification file systems also offer driver communications to help facilitate the gathering of compliance documents while on the road. When a driver applicant sees how easy the onboard and compliance process is, the driver-first company benefits.
In Conclusion
At VLC, our TripDawg and DQMConnect™ products are helping companies improve recruitment and retention by helping them with a driver-first culture. Let’s explore these opportunities and others that can help your business build an efficient, exciting technology strong company that drivers want to be part of. Contact us for a discovery call.
Vehicle Licensing Consultants
A Virtual Projects, LLC Company
Fleet & Driver Compliance…Fleet Tracking Software
530-384-3884
Electronic Logging
What You Need to Know About Truck Electronic Logging Devices
For years, truckers were forced to maintain a hand-written journal documenting their journeys and various aspects of their trucks, such as mileage and fuel use, as well as their hour-to-hour activities. This was difficult, tedious, and very prone to error – which was a problem when it was also the legally required activity log.
So recently, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created a new standard for logging truck activities digitally. This centers around the use of a truck electronic logging device (ELD) to track and store vital data. ELDs are far more convenient than paper books, but there are still things that every driver or fleet manager should know about them.
Important Facts About Truck Electronic Logging Devices
1 – What do ELDs record?
Most ELDs are hooked directly into a truck’s systems, so they’re able to automatically record mileage, fuel use, and more. They can also keep track of a driver’s schedule, logging on-duty and off-duty hours, and help ensure a driver doesn’t stay on the road longer than they’re legally allowed to.
(And by the same token, they also make it far more difficult to fudge those numbers, a common issue with paper logs.)
2 – Who has to carry an ELD?
The vast majority of commercial long-distance vehicles are obligated to use ELDs. In particular, it applies to vehicles which:
- Weigh at least 10,000 pounds
- Transport 8+ people for compensation
- Transport 15+ people without compensation
- Transports hazardous materials which require placards
So, the regulations apply to everyone from truckers transporting food to commercial bus lines. There are very few exceptions.
3 – What are the exceptions to ELD regulations?
In a few situations, a driver may not be obligated to own or maintain an ELD. These are:
- The vehicle in question was manufactured before the year 2000 and therefore lacks the necessary electronic interfaces.
- Drivers who drive less than 8 days per month
- Drivers transporting vehicles for sale/lease/etc., if the vehicle they’re driving is also part of the shipment to be sold – such as a truck hauling other trucks.
4 – What ELDs are compliant with regulations?
There are dozens of choices in ELDs which have been certified by the FMCSA. The full list can be accessed here. In addition, smartphones can also be used as ELD, if it’s possible to directly connect the phone to the vehicle’s computer system.
Vehicle Licensing Consultants (VLC)
Have trouble owning and maintaining your ELDs? Vehicle Licensing Consultants can help. Our ELD devices have a lifetime guarantee. Click here to learn more.
Electronic Logging
HOS violations can be costly to your organization. Your driver is placed out of service causing a ripple effect through your driver team and delays with your deliveries. Not to mention the fines, which can be significant.
Let’s take a look at the top 6 violations and see how Geotab can reduce or eliminate them from your fleet:
Wrong Class License
Ensure your divers have the proper license for their vehicle and trailer. Keep medical updates current and set reminders around licenses.
Vehicle Out of Service
Keep brakes, tires, and lights in proper working order to avoid road check violations. Cargo securement is another common violation that can put your vehicle OOS. Preventative maintenance is an excellent way to avoid these issues, replacing or repairing before problems occur. It’s also a great way to keep your drivers and equipment safe.
Driving Beyond Time
The 14-Hour and 11-Hour Rules are in place for everyone’s safety. Be sure that your drivers are informed about the HOS requirements.
Outdated Logs
Your Geotab ELD can avoid the risk of receiving this violation. Make sure your drivers actively update their change in duty status so that your logs are current and accurate at all times.
Compliance Review Violations
These violations typically occur when you are unable to present your ELD logs or are missing log data. If you are using an ELD and the data transfer fails, the Geotab Drive App can be a lifesaver. It will automatically retain the previous 14 days of logs to present during a roadside inspection.
Roadside Inspection Violations
These violations can easily be avoided when using the Geotab ELD. Geotab data can help the fleet manager see what drivers are reporting and can help spot any signs of tampering or falsification of records.
We Can Help
VLC has been assisting Fleet Managers and HR with tools and information to keep HOS violations reduced and eliminated. The Geotab device, when used correctly, will help you and your drivers stay on the road and avoid penalties. Call us for more information.
Vehicle Licensing Consultants
A Virtual Projects, LLC Company
Fleet & Driver Compliance…Fleet Tracking Software
530-384-3884
