Best Habits and Practices For Effective ELD Usage

The ELD mandate has officially become enforced in Canada as of this year. Canadian ELDs have already been a part of our lives for a few years, but now it has become increasingly important for us to know how to properly use them. With the regulation, drivers across North America need to keep a digital logbook that records their daily trips, off-duty time, and rest periods. The ELD mandate had already been enforced in the U.S. for a few years, marking the significance of knowing how to effectively use them. There are a few helpful practices to adopt, in making the most of your ELD.  

ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices) log a lot of the work that was originally manually done by drivers, but it is still important to know how the system works and which adjustments you are allowed to make. Knowing how to use your ELD device is one thing, but being able to avoid mistakes or troubleshoot problems when they arise is another.  The system has its pros and cons, and it's all about finding the right balance to make sure you're getting your most efficient results. Here are a few useful tips on how to most effectively use your ELDs, and a few common mistakes to avoid:

Preparing The ELDs

Knowing how to set up and use your ELD is an important step. If you haven’t already set up an ELD solution, you want to start off on the right foot, which means having the proper system in place and one that is fully working. For fleet managers, you need to set out the ELD solution requirements, so take into account the size of your fleet, objectives and type of operation you may be running. Your ELD should be implemented during a less busy period, so that all drivers who need to be present are available. 

Learn more about what ELDs are, and how to choose one: A Guide To Understanding and Choosing an ELD.

For drivers, the ELD should be safely mounted to the vehicle and in your line of sight. It should be plugged in at all times. If you are using any kind of phone device, then have the mount for that device. You could receive a citation if your ELD device is not secured or mounted during your drive, so double-check your system. 

Always Plan Ahead

You want to ensure that you plan your trips ahead of time, so you leave enough time to find parking or a place to stop. The last thing you want to do is end up running out of driving hours but being nowhere near a safe spot to park.  Always try to aim for multiple options when it comes to parking, as you may run into unexpected delays. 

Before heading out on any trips, ensure that your device is functioning properly. If you have a portable or phone connected device, make sure the battery is charged. Any potential issues with your device need to be put into writing and sent to the carrier, so that you have record of trying to fix the issue. If you are an owner-operator, report any issue with your ELD to the provider, also in writing, as these records will indicate you have tried to fix any issues. 

Remember: Always update your load info once you pick up or drop off a load, and make it a habit to do so. 

Have Your ELD Documents in the Cab

You want to ensure that you have ELD documents easily accessible. These are the documents your ELD manufacturer provides. The primary documents you need are the ELD manual, malfunction guide, and transfer guide. The transfer guide shows you the options possible to transfer logbook data to officials during the inspection, the manual helps you know how to use it and the malfunction guide helps you correct any issues which may arise.

Always Bring Paper Logs

You want to ensure that you have minimum 8 days worth of blank paper logs with you, in case the ELD malfunctions. You are required to have the ELD documents and the blank logs with you, as part of the regulation.

Familiarize Yourself With Electronic Logging 

In order to remain in compliance and on schedule, it is important to note what will be logged in the ELD. Keep in mind that slow movement will be detected by your device, which is usually around 4 miles per hour (8km/per hour). You will be considered to be driving status if you are moving even at this speed. Drivers still maintain control over the system, or any modifications made, other than driving status.

One thing to note about Canadian ELD solutions is that they will need to automatically return to an on-duty status after a 6 minute stop, unless changes are made manually by the driver. Drivers also review unassigned driving segments and reject any that are not theirs, as all driving segments are logged, even if another person is operating the truck.

If you are operating on a road that is not the main public road, then you will activate the yard move feature, in order to avoid your ELD logging driving status time. Once you reach about 19 miles per hour or 32km/per hour, you will have exceeded the speed for yard move and will be transferred into a driving event. 

Remember: You must always be either on-duty or off-duty for at least two minutes before the device logs the status.

Log Your Border Crossing

You have the ability to change the status, usually in the Clocks feature of the log, once you have crossed the border. You simply hit the border button and change to where you entered. Canada and the U.S. have slight differences in HOS rules, so you want to make sure you are logging for the area you are in.

Make Status Changes a Habit 

You want to be careful when driving your vehicle, as some driving time cannot be edited. Even yard move is still tagging automatic movement, so be mindful of how you use your log. If you start your workday by moving your truck, even if you are just heading into the yard or to the shipper’s to load first, you will trigger the clock to start counting down. To avoid improper logging, keep the following habits in mind:

• Call Ahead: Call to the loading dock or pickup area and ensure everything is ready before you head down there to pick up your trailer or load. You do not want to get to the customer or docks and have your load not be ready, as you are running your clock down.
• Go Off-Duty Manually: If you choose to go on-duty manually but then end up waiting for loading or having to stop your day, you can edit the log with adequate annotation to reset your workday.
• Be Cautious On Breaks: You want to make sure your vehicle does not automatically go into drive or on-duty mode if you are in the middle of a break and need to move your vehicle. Choose the “personal conveyance” option prior to moving the truck. Always use annotations on your log to help you make these movements and stay on track.

Prepare For Your Inspections 

If you are asked by officers to submit your log, be sure to ask what method of transfer they would want. There are two primary methods: “local” referring to USB or Bluetooth, and then the more popular “telematic”, referring to wireless through email or ELD provider.

The ELD system is designed to make your driving experience as easy, comfortable and safe as possible.. Make sure you know how your ELD device works and when it makes sense to make adjustments. The more you know about each part of the system, the better off you'll be on the road. When you know how to work your ELD, you are better able to adjust and navigate, while still staying in compliance with regulation.