Washington Electronic Logbook for Trucks

In December of 2017, every motor carrier and truck driver had to begin using an “ELD,” or “Electronic Logbook Device.” This had been developing since December of 2015 due to the work of the FMCSA. An electronic logbook presents some real opportunities. If you want to know more about how they can help, or how to integrate them, we’re always glad to discuss it with you.

The trucking business runs on wheels, but nowadays, it also runs on data reporting. ELDs make it easier to record more data more precisely, which makes them perfect for today’s trucking business. Perhaps you’ve heard how these electronic logbook devices use “RODS.” In this context, “RODS” stands for “Records on Duty Status.” So, the ELDs make it easy to track these RODS. Then, you can analyze them later and figure out how to best run your company. Using the data from RODS, you can see which costs should be cut and where your company’s attention should be turned. The more information you have about you trucking company, the better decisions you’ll be able to make.

Of course, these logbooks do a lot more than just help you to collect RODS. You can actually connect them right to the engine. Then, then can monitor your motor performance accurately. So, you’ll know all there is to know about how your engine is doing. Instead of guessing or “taking a shot at it,” you will have a crystal clear picture of your engine performance.

For years, owners of trucking companies have tried to find the perfect, most accurate way to measure their driver’s time. With this electronic logbook, it’s easy. All your drivers have to do is select from “On-Duty Not Driving,” “Off-Duty” and “On-Duty.” That way, all they have to do to update their status is press a button. That makes it easier on them as well as you. Additionally, this is where those “RODS” come in. Drivers can track their own hours using an electronic logbook.

Just a few short years ago, it was necessary to write down all of your information, or type it into a computer when you wanted to calculate taxes or give your information to the authorities. Now, you don’t have to do any of that. With the help of the electronic logbook, you can share it with just the press of a button. All it takes is a USB, Bluetooth or any number of wireless web services and it can share your info quickly.

The electronic logbook is a case of something that’s mandatory but can actually help your business. You can access the RODS electronically instead of making your employees fill all of that out. Think of the paper you’ll save, and the administrative work you (and your employees” won’t have to do. By that same token, all of this information is easily collected in one place online, so you can find it with just the press of a button. The days of going through file after file or boxes in the attic are done forever.

Everyone is looking for a way to help the environment, to go more “green.” The ELD can help there, too. With a paperless office, you’re helping the environment while cutting down on clutter.

There’s no one true set price for how much an electronic logbook costs. Some can be very expensive, over $800. Others can be as low as about $150. As you see, that’s quite a variation. They tend to differ depending on what kind of vehicle they’re placed in. We’ve averaged out the prices and found that most tend to cost around $500.

While these logbooks are mandatory, as you might imagine, everything has an exemption. However, even companies that have found they are able to be exempted usually discover that these logbooks can save their company money over a given period of time. That being said, not everyone wants these. So, if you don’t want to have to use them in your trucking company, reasons for exemptions do exist.

You aren’t required to use electronic logbook devices if:

• You aren’t the owner of the CMV (commercial motor vehicle) as a tow away driver.
• The CMV of yours uses an engine manufactured before 2000.
• If you’re a driver on a 100 or 150 air-mile hauls that doesn’t keep track of RODS. Note: this only applies to some of these particular kinds of drivers. If you have more questions about this, let us know.
• You use RODS tracking less than eight days in one given, 30-day period.

For some of you, you won’t meet those standards but would like to get rid of your electronic logbook device anyway. Applying for an exemption from the ELD rule is possible. All you’ll do is just go on using tracking processes as before. Electronic logbook devices can seem quite overwhelming at first glance. That’s why we offer help with installation as well as training. Reach out to us and we’ll make sure that your vehicles are ELD compliant (and you’re up to date on how it works) before an inspection.