Q. We’re in the process of making the transition from AOBRDs to ELDs. I think we’re going to make it in time for the deadline, but, if we don’t, will we have a grace period on enforcement like fleets did in 2017-2018?

A. The short answer is no. There is every indication that the FMCSA will be enforcing ELD compliance from day one on December 20, 2019.

If you have any questions about whether you’ll meet the deadline, discuss it both with your legal department and your provider so you can develop strategies for meeting the deadline and remaining in compliance.

Keep in mind, the consequences of violations can be quite severe—as much as $10,000 per violation with multiple violations common, the driver and the vehicle put out of service, and the likelihood of an audit, which could result in additional violations.

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.

Q. A colleague and I were discussing AOBRDs and enforcement. Since we only need to keep six months’ worth of logs — what do we do during an audit once it’s more than six months out from the original compliance date?

A. If your fleet is currently equipped with an AOBRD and you’re looking ahead to the December 2019 deadline, one thing you can do is...

Q. We were equipped with AOBRDs before the ELD Rule first went into effect, so my fleet is still using them under the AOBRD grandfather clause. I’ve added a few trucks recently. Can I add additional AOBRDs to the fleet?

A. Per guidance released early in 2018, carriers covered by the AOBRD grandfather clause can add additional AOBRDs to their fleet provided that...

Q. I want to start the process of switching our trucks from AOBRDs to ELDs now, and don’t really know how to even begin choosing an ELD. How should I start?

A. The best thing you’ve done already is to start the process long before the transition date...

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...

Q. We're in the process of choosing an ELD to replace our AOBRDs, but how do I know if the electronic logging device meets all the technical specifications?

A. Your potential ELD provider needs to verify that its solution meets all of the technical specifications provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The basic specifications include...

Q. I've heard that the Department of Transportation is going to make a bunch of changes to the Hours of Service rules, is that true?

A. Yes and no — in March, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao announced that she had sent a notice of proposed rulemaking aimed at updating the Hours of Service rules to...

Q. We've done a good job over the past couple of years with getting our tractors equipped with telematics and being in ELD compliance. I really need a way to keep tabs on my trailers to keep them up and running — can telematics help me with that?

A. It certainly can! Telematics has evolved over the years from simply tracking assets to helping to keep them up and running. Your focus on maintenance is a good business decision, since maintenance is one of the biggest costs associated with...

Q. I know training should be factored into ELD implementation, but is it really as big a deal as everyone seems to be making it?

Q. Yes, it is crucial that your drivers and your back office staff understand how to use your ELD solution. If it is apparent to roadside inspectors that your drivers do not know how to operate their ELD, they will, in all likelihood, be issued a citation. Back office staff could net your operation a citation as well if, in the event of an audit, it’s clear they don’t know how to use your solution. Training should include, but not be limited to...

Q. I’ve heard that ELDs can be used for more than creating RODS. What other kinds of data can I capture?

Many fleets are finding that ELDs are also a goldmine of data that can be used to help manage both their vehicle assets and drivers...

Fleet FAQ

Got Questions? Top ELD Questions Answered