Tech Thursday Archives - Drive My Way

What Every Driver Needs to Know About Electronic Logging Devices

My Job, Tech Thursday September 5, 2024/by Elijah Larson

Starting in 2017, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) began to roll out a new mandate that affects almost all commercial vehicle drivers across the country.

This mandate requires most CDL holders to use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track their Hours of Service (HOS). Designed to replace traditional paper logs, ELDs automatically record driving time and other essential data, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and safety standards.

As the trucking industry continues to adapt to this significant change, it’s crucial for every driver to understand how ELDs work and how they help drivers to maintain safety and efficiency on the road.

What is an ELD?

ELDs are a digital solution that records a driver’s Hours of Service (HOS) automatically by synchronizing with a vehicle’s engine.

ELDs log data such as engine hours, vehicle movement, miles driven, location, and driver identification. ELDs can also capture safety information, such as harsh braking and collisions. This data is used to ensure that drivers are complying with the FMCSA’s required Hours of Service, protecting drivers from being overworked and from fatigue-related accidents on the road.

There are multiple components to an ELD, including the physical device, connected with the vehicle’s engine control module, and a mobile device or display unit used to view data. Many ELDs also offer a Cloud-based platform for storing and retrieving data.

Which Drivers Must Comply with the Mandate?

Although the FMCSA’s ELD mandate first went into effect in 2017, full compliance was not required until December of 2019. Now, most CDL drivers who are required to prepare HOS records of duty status (RODS) must comply with the mandate.

Potential penalties for non-compliance include fines, being placed out of service, or a negative impact on your carrier’s safety rating.

However, there are some drivers who remain exempt from the mandate. These include:

Drivers of vehicles manufactured before the year 2000.

Short-haul drivers who use timecards and meet specific criteria.

Drivers operating within a 150-air-mile radius.

Benefits of ELDs for Drivers

ELDs are not just for the sake of the FMCSA, they also make daily record-keeping faster and more efficient for drivers and carriers.

By eliminating the need for manual logs, drivers can save valuable time and reduce the risk of errors that could lead to costly violation fines. ELDs automatically capture accurate data, ensuring compliance with HOS regulations and minimizing the chances of mistakes that could occur with paper logs.

With ELDs, drivers no longer must spend time filling out logbooks by hand, allowing them to focus more on driving and less on administrative tasks. This reduction in paperwork also streamlines communication with carriers, making it easier to submit records and reports.

Moreover, the use of ELDs contributes to increased safety on the road. By promoting adherence to HOS regulations, ELDs help prevent driver fatigue—a major factor in many accidents every year.

Tips for ELD Usage

Like with any new technology, it’s important for drivers to learn the best practices and tips to make the most of their ELD.

Drivers should familiarize themselves with their specific ELD device, including how to navigate its features, edit logs, and generate reports during inspections. Make sure to keep up with updates from the ELD provider to ensure you are using the latest software, which could include new features or compliance updates.

Because ELDs are digital and sometimes connected to the Cloud, technical issues are a possibility. For drivers that could experience poor connectivity in remote or rural areas, remember to store data locally until the connection is re-established.

If the ELD malfunctions or fails, it’s helpful to bring along backup paper logs until the device is up and running again. Drivers should also be aware of the FMCSA requirements for reporting and repairing ELD malfunctions, which requires drivers to report the malfunction to their carrier within 24 hours. The carrier will then have eight days to repair, service, or replace the ELD.

For more information on the future of trucking and to find out about exciting developments in the industry, be sure to check out more posts on our Truck Driver Blog and follow us on social media!

How E-Commerce Has Affected Routes and Jobs

My Job, Tech Thursday, Trucking Industry August 7, 2024/by Elijah Larson

The rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the way we shop, providing consumers with unprecedented convenience and access to a global marketplace from the comfort of their homes.

For truck drivers, the growth of e-commerce has fundamentally altered traditional trucking routes, job roles, and the overall landscape of the trucking industry.

Today, there is an increasing focus on short-haul routes and last mile delivery, which allows drivers to remain local and spend more time at home. This growing demand has also led some companies to offer higher pay and improved working conditions, giving the drivers the power to leverage a better career.

Keep reading to find out how e-commerce has affected the truck driving industry, including the benefits, challenges, and potential future changes.

Increased Demand for Short-Haul Routes

One of the most significant and immediate impacts the rise of e-commerce has had on the trucking industry is the increased demand for short-haul pickup-and-delivery runs. In fact, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has reported that the average trip length for truckers has decreased by 37 percent since 2000.

As e-commerce companies, like Amazon and Ebay, and their competitors, such as Wal-Mart, continue to offer consumers benefits like same-day shipping and real-time product tracking, trucking companies must keep up by providing quality last mile delivery services.

Last mile delivery is the transportation of a product from a hub, such as a local warehouse or fulfillment center, to its final destination at either a retailer or customer’s home. These types of runs involve significantly less mileage than long-haul routes, but require a strict delivery schedule with less room for error.

This surge in demand for short-haul routes has led to a rise in job opportunities within the trucking industry, and it has also impacted drivers’ work-life balance. More drivers are needed to handle the increased volume of deliveries, and many of these drivers now have the opportunity to return home more frequently.

Higher Pay and Improved Working Conditions

The growing demand for shorter, pickup-and-delivery jobs over longer, inter-regional or long-haul jobs has impacted the daily life and job requirements of many drivers.

Not only are these drivers able to spend less time on the road and more time at home, some e-commerce companies are offering competitive pay and benefits to attract and retain truckers. For example, Walmart now pays its first-year drivers up to $110,000, more than double the industry median for long-haul drivers.

The rise of e-commerce has also created more job opportunities for truckers, especially younger drivers and those who are looking for a more stable work schedule. Because in the US drivers must be at least 21 years old to complete cross-state runs, the high demand for local e-commerce deliveries has created openings for younger drivers to enter the field.

Technology and E-Commerce

The growth of e-commerce has also driven innovation in logistics technology. With an increased demand for same-day deliveries and real-time tracking, e-commerce has led carriers to implement and improve route optimization software, GPS tracking, and automated load matching systems.

Although to some truckers new technologies might seem like one more thing to learn and be responsible for, these innovations allow for more precise and timely deliveries, which are crucial for maintaining the tight schedules of last mile delivery. They also can save drivers time and money, lowering expenses on fuel and vehicle repairs.

Potential Challenges

Like any innovation, e-commerce is not without its challenges and potential negative impacts on the trucking industry. Some of these impacts have already been reflected in carriers and shippers across the nation, while others are still being researched.

With the dramatic increase in demand for short-haul drivers, some experts are worried that this growth could worsen the already existing shortage of long-haul drivers. Although OTR driving has its own benefits and advantages, the long hours away from home and high turnover rates in long-haul trucking may push drivers to seek employment in the burgeoning short-haul sector.

The stringent delivery expectations of e-commerce deliveries has also caused trouble for shippers and companies. To save time and improve service, many shippers choose to move their freight via full truckload to meet strict delivery expectations, even if they lack enough freight to fill the entire truck.

In fact, a study by Flock Freight found that 43% of truckloads moved partially empty in 2023, with an average of 29 linear feet of unused deck space per truck.

To combat this challenge, carriers and shippers have increasingly been choosing shared truckloads or digital freight matching technology to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. However, these means drivers should familiarize themselves with these options and how it could affect their daily operations and expectations.

Interested in learning more about current industry trends and advancements in trucking? Connect with us on social media and check out the rest of our Truck Driver blog posts to learn more today.

New Technologies That Benefit Truck Drivers

My Job, Tech Thursday, Trucking Industry July 11, 2024/by Elijah Larson

In a career as important as truck driving, any strategy that can improve the efficiency and daily operations of drivers can have a significant impact on the global economy.

Modern technologies have revolutionized the industry by optimizing route planning, increasing fuel efficiency, and reducing idle time. By leveraging these groundbreaking advancements, drivers can save both time and money, enhancing their overall productivity and contributing to a more efficient supply chain.

Keep reading to find out six of the best technologies today’s truck drivers can invest in, and how these tools can transform your driving experience and operational efficiency.

Autonomous Vehicles

One of the most talked about modern advancements in the trucking industry has been the introduction of autonomous, or self-driving, vehicles.

Although self-driving trucks are still far from becoming an industry standard, a number of major companies have run successful tests that promise a future of improved safety, increased efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions.

These breakthroughs began with the initial introduction of advanced driver assist systems, or ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, electronic stability control and adaptive cruise control. Now, companies like EASE Logistics have pushed the envelope with the development of programs that use AI (Artificial Intelligence) vehicle-to-vehicle communication to power autonomous truck convoys.

Self-driving trucks might seem worrisome for drivers concerned about being replaced, but they really serve as an opportunity. Drivers are still required to operate these trucks in some capacity, but now they will have more time to focus on route optimization and customer service.

Electric Vehicles

A technological breakthrough that has swept the world by storm and continues to grow in popularity, electric vehicles (EVs) are seen by many as the future of the trucking industry.

Although EVs still require a significant upfront investment, especially for owner-operators, they can reduce costs over time by requiring less maintenance and eliminating fuel expenses. EVs also significantly lower carbon emissions, making them an excellent choice as state and federal regulations continue to tighten environmental standards.

GPS Tracking and Route Optimization Software

No matter the route distance or freight carried, using these technologies can make trucking easier for every driver.

GPS tracking software uses satellite signals to pinpoint a vehicle’s location in real time and provide accurate data on the vehicle’s position, speed, and direction. Route optimization software plans the most efficient routes for deliveries by using algorithms to account for delivery addresses, time windows, vehicle capacity, and traffic conditions.

Many route optimization solutions now integrate GPS tracking and route planning into a single platform. This allows drivers to minimize unnecessary miles, offer reliable ETAs, and review past routes to increase future efficiency.

Electronic Logging Devices

ELDs are not just a time-saving organizational tool for truckers, they have also become a required device for many bus and truck drivers in the US.

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a tool used by drivers of commercial vehicles to automatically track driving time and Hours of Service (HOS) records. They can also capture data on the vehicle’s engine, movement, and miles driven.

After installing a telematics device, an ELD works by sending the collected engine and GPS location data to be analyzed. Drivers can then access the data via a mobile app, while fleet managers can view the data through their own company software.

By replacing manual paper logs, ELDs reduce driver paperwork, maintain accurate record-keeping, and comply with increasing regulations.

Mobile Apps and Programs

Among the many recent technological innovations that aid truckers, mobile apps have become an indispensable tool that offers solutions ranging from navigation and fuel optimization to regulatory compliance and load management.

Apps such as Trucker Path and GasBuddy assist in route planning and locating the most affordable fueling stations, while TruckSmart and Trucker Tools help drivers access roadside assistance, find truck stops, and manage and book loads.

Additional trucking challenges, such as finding parking, can also be solved through mobile apps. Trucking Parking Club displays available spots across the nation, allowing drivers to search for free parking or book spots days in advance.

Looking for more advice on increasing your efficiency and optimizing operations as a truck driver? Find out more on our Truck Driver Blog and connect with us on social media today.

Staying Connected: The Best Mobile Apps for Truckers on the Road

Gadgets, My Life, Tech Thursday June 27, 2024/by Elijah Larson

Technology has changed the trucking industry in countless ways. From digitized paperwork to advanced route planning and real-time tracking, modern innovations have streamlined operations and increased efficiency for truck drivers around the world.

Among these technological innovations, mobile apps have become indispensable tools for truckers, offering solutions that range from navigation and fuel optimization to regulatory compliance and load management.

Keep reading to find out more about some of the best mobile apps for truck drivers, and why you’ll want to download these before heading out on your next run.

Best Navigation Apps

Mobile apps have helped to make route optimization and achieving fuel efficiency accessible to every truck driver, no matter the distance traveled or freight carried.