FleetMatics : A Fleet Manager’s Guide to ELD Compliance

It's the million-dollar question: How do you prime your organization to reach full ELD compliance? Time's a-wastin', sport, and you have a little less than 365 days to get with the program - the deadline is Dec. 18, 2017. So what's a fleet manager to do?

Here is the basic answer: You need to get all employees to understand what ELD compliance is, why it's important and how to make the most of new ELD technology.

Four steps to get you started:

1.Select a GPS vehicle tracking provider whose product supports full Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) compliance. Choosing the right provider can make or break proper ELD compliance. Make sure that the provider is knowledgeable about how to support ELD regulations with an easy-to-use solution, and flexible, with tools that are easy to integrate/transition into your current operations (a learning curve is normal, but you shouldn't need a Ph.D. to use something).

And it's not just about meeting the bare minimum of the ELD mandate requirements. You also should aim for products that give you a return on your investment in the form of savings and productivity, because you can fill more jobs in less time while cutting costs.

2 .Help drivers understand the new tracking tools: As you roll out your new vehicle tracking system, make sure the drivers get that this new technology will help them maintain ELD compliance - it's not just another of your wacky ideas (not that you've ever come up with a gem like Horse Boat or anything).

Your drivers will gain more control over their time, letting them create, edit and manage their own hours - plus, the tracking system gives them ways to help stay compliant, including Hours of Service (HOS) compliance tools; real-time driver feedback; driver vehicle inspection reports; and IFTA mileage reporting.

For companies that can't go beyond a certain mileage radius, tracking software's geofencing capabilities help make it clear when drivers are going beyond the point they can be. And for companies worried about drivers putting in too many hours behind the wheel, features in the mobile app make it easy to calculate how many hours they have left for the day, or whether it's quittin' time (and then, of course, Miller Time).

3.Implement an employee coaching program to increase engagement. The best way to maintain ELD compliance and help make your rollout a success is through effective and consistent driver coaching - your guys aren't going to get better if they don't know what they're doing wrong.

Share both the good and not-so-good ELD compliance and GPS data, using reports, alerts and data entries that track driver behavior. The violation alerts and reports help managers monitor hourly infractions if they occur, meaning you can be all over any issues like white on rice before they turn into serious (and costly) problems. The near real-time data that is constantly pouring in from the tracking software lets managers to be proactive with instant, visible coachable moments.

4.Get employees on board to make your rollout a success. Don't make ELD compliance sound like something they have to do because it helps the business - show drivers how it helps them, too, and they'll be true believers.

The government is mandating electronic HOS compliance to improve safety, reduce risk, manage efficiency, rein in costs and increase overall regulatory compliance - but the one to focus on is safety: When they comply, it ensures they are alert and engaged behind the wheel, reducing the chance of accidents and other mishaps.

Keep the lines of communication open - your drivers may have questions on what they should or should not do - and develop clear written policies that people can reference if they have a question. Encourage people to give feedback on your policies - they might have an idea you didn't think of.

Last but not least: Coach, encourage and repeat, and your company will be well on its way to compliance. And don't forget that if you're looking for tools to help you get to that big rocky candy mountain of compliance, we can help.

Copyright ©2017 Fleetmatics Development Limited. All rights reserved. Fleetmatics and the Fleetmatics logo are registered trademarks of Fleetmatics in the U.S. and other countries. Fleetmatics has used third party sources in the creation of this blog. Fleetmatics does not make any representations whatsoever, or give any warranties of any kind, expressed, implied or otherwise about the information contained in this blog. See https://www.fleetmatics.com/privacy-policy/126 for more details.

*This post is not intended to provide legal advice on the ELD Mandate. Please consult a licensed professional attorney to obtain advice where appropriate.

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