The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced last month that it would allow truck drivers to use mobile-based ELDs to change duty status outside, away from their trucks, for at least the next 5 years. This includes both phones and tablets.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Facts

This announcement came as the result of a 4-part request submitted by the UPS to FMCSA. Two requests were accepted, and two were clarified in further detail.

The UPS sought exemption as their drivers are mostly paid by the hour, and use mobile devices to clock in while in the dispatch buildings, not in their trucks. By allowing for the mobile ELDs, FMCSA is saying that it is not necessary for ELDs to automatically record a change in duty status when drivers are not in their trucks.

The other request that was granted allows fleets to configure yard move mode without having to go back and re-enter “yard move” every time they turn off the truck. However, the ELD must be able to switch to “driving” mode when the driver is exceeding 20 miles per hour, and when the truck exits a geo-fenced yard.

The FMCSA did clarify why they did not grant the last two requests. With the first, a previously used AOBRD can be placed in a new truck that is replacing an old truck. A new AOBRD cannot be installed in a new vehicle that replaces an old one, however.

In addition, employees who only drive trucks on company property are exempt from the Hours of Service rules. Since they don’t drive on public roads, they don’t need to use ELDs whatsoever.

The Countdown is On

The official ELD implementation date is December 18th. As we’re about a month out, it’s time for you to make sure you are compliant before then. Consider contacting UTECH today. With our knowledge and expertise, we will ease your fears, so you can continue doing your job efficiently.

We are leading specialists in the trucking industry, to help ensure safety for everyone on the roads. Our ELD has gone through a rigorous certification process, and we guarantee that it will make a great choice as an automatic onboard recording device for your business. With the well-known and tested GPSTab platform, our edition will provide more functionality to fleets of all sizes, while keep drivers happy.