Q. I know that we're going to have to switch from our AOBRD to and ELD in December, but I still have plenty of time right?

A.You have time, but it’s rapidly running out. In fact, at a recent industry conference, FMCSA Administrator Ray Martinez advised fleets to prepare to switch “now,” if you haven’t already.

As the fleets that implemented an ELD in December 2017 discovered, it took more time than was expected. There are a number of reasons why:

It takes time to find and potentially pilot the best solution for the fleet

Installation—particularly for a large fleet—can be complicated and time consuming; installers may not be available at the last minute

Most of all, training—for drivers and back office staff—takes time and must be necessarily thorough, since drivers and fleets will face violations and risk being put out of service if drivers and back-office personnel don’t know how to use the ELD devices

The message is clear, the more you delay, the harder it may be to successfully be up and running by the December 2019 ELD switch over date.

Expert Bio

Answered by : Scott Sutarik from Geotab

VP, Commercial Vehicle Solutions

Scott Sutarik is the VP of Commercial Vehicle Solutions at Geotab Inc. He has extensive experience within the truck manufacturing industry, specializing in medium duty and heavy duty trucks. He previously worked in sales and marketing at Navistar Inc. where he supported over 700 dealerships, worked with suppliers and telematics providers, and managed the OnCommand Connection Program. With his expertise in telematics, regulatory compliance, engine diagnostics, and alternative fueled vehicles, Scott provides training and works with Geotab's partners to develop leading-edge fleet management solutions for the trucking industry.

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