Last updated on July 24th, 2023 at 06:09 am

It is now official, trucks and trailers in the US must have electronic logging devices (ELD) installed. See the updated news about the ELD mandate for more information today.

ELD devices are meant to replace paper logs to monitor a driver’s hours of service.

The ELD mandate only applies to carriers and drivers who are required to maintain records of duty status (RODS), in accordance with US federal hours of service regulations. Those who fail to comply will be penalized with fines, placed out of service, and CSA points added to your record. To stay in compliance, you should make sure you understand all of the hours of service violations you could potentially get.

This being the case, all trucks and commercial buses were required to have ELDs installed by the deadline. This mandate forced many fleet owners to rush and buy these electronic gadgets without knowing what features to look for.

With hundreds of manufacturers to choose from in the ELD market, comparing and selecting the best electronic logging device can be overwhelming.

Before making your final decision, you need to consider aspects like compatibility, ease of use, configuration and features of your preferred device. To remain compliant and make the choice a little easier for you, here are reviews of 20 of the best ELD manufacturers on the market.

What Is An Electronic Logging Device (ELD)?

ELD’s are electronic devices that automatically record a driver’s hours of service. Such technology allows for accurate recordkeeping of electronic logs. An ELD device tracks a truck’s engine and captures data on its movement, whether the truck is in motion or idling.

ELD devices also keep track of engine hours, as well as on-duty and off-duty hours. ELD manufacturers must be certified by the FMCSA to ensure they meet technical guidelines for the mandate.

Best ELD Devices 2023 – Top 20 Providers Reviewed

With the 100 plus ELD providers out there it is super confusing what the best electronic logging devices are for your specific situation. We have gone through the time and effort to pull together the overall top 20 ELDs in the industry.

The one caveat to this list is that we have gone 1 step further for the owner-operators and pulled out the top 5 ELDs for owner-operators to make it a little easier for you.

How Much Does An ELD Cost?

The cost can vary greatly, depending on if you’re looking to buy a device outright, or go with an ELD provider that charges an annual rate. Electronic logging devices can cost as much as $35, all the way up to $2,647 for a 3-year plan.

For example, a provider like EROAD charges just $35/month, while a device like the Omnitracs MCP can cost $600 upfront plus a $55 monthly cost. The total cost will depend on how many trucks in your fleet need to be equipped with an ELD device.

As ELD’s have been out for some time now, manufacturers are providing discounts and less expensive fleet management options. Some ELD devices like the Garmin eLog can run on your smartphone or tablet and only cost $249.99 upfront. There are no ongoing monthly fees.

The introduction of such ELD solutions delivers significant long term savings for fleets. Whether you are an owner-operator or a large fleet, ELD’s help you avoid hefty fines while remaining complaint. Also, they help with analytics, reporting, and things like RODS reports.

According to Global Market Insights, reports indicate that the electronic logging device sector will grow at a CAGR of over 4% from 2019 to 2025, reaching well over $16 billion by 2025.

With device costs slowly decreasing, the ELD industry is becoming more dominant with features like vehicle monitoring, tracking, measuring driver performance, location, and fuel savings.

1. Motive ELD (KeepTruckin) – Best Overall

As compared to the hundreds of other electronic logging devices available today, you will find the Keep Truckin ELD more reliable and easier to use. In addition to the reliable ELD device, the provider also offers a slick and user-friendly app.

To begin with, you will rest assured knowing that this ELD is compliant with all the current FMCSA requirements. Therefore, this is a preferred device for drivers trying to comply with the ELD mandate.

With this app installed in your phone or tablet, you only need to connect the ELD device to your vehicle and connect the device to the phone or tablet.

Get Motive Deal

What Are My Options wit Motive (KeepTruckin)?

You have two main ways to get started with KeepTruckin; you can either pair your ELD device to your iOS, or to your Android device via USB or using Bluetooth. Once the two are paired, the driving time will be automatically recorded in real-time, in accordance with the ELD mandate requirements.

As you may know, you will need much more than just a reliable ELD device to meet the requirements. As such, you should consider buying from providers who are offering the complete package. The Keep Truckin ELD solution comes with support and instructional videos. It shows you how to use the device and keeping you up to date with regulations.

With every purchase of the product, you will also get 6-pin and 9-pin cables, ELD hardware device, instructional manual, and a DOT reference card.

Why The KeepTruckin ELD Is Our Top Pick

To ensure that you get seamless service after buying your device, you will find the support team at KeepTruckin readily available. As such, fleet managers and drivers can either email or call the KeepTruckin Support Team any time of the day, 7 days a week.

The app itself is free to download from either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The KeepTruckin system is considered to be one of the best bring your own device (BYOD) today for a reason.

This system offers you all the information you need, allowing you to create vehicle inspections, view logs, and send messages, among other capabilities.

After buying and installing the KeepTruckin device, you will need a software subscription to keep things working. Keeptruckin offers several monthly plans you can choose from.

Transparent Pricing

You should choose a monthly subscription plan that you find appropriate. For instance, the basic Starter plan that costs $20 a month offers logs, geofencing, inspection reports, messaging, real-time GPS tracking, and other basic fleet management tools.

If this does not work for you, you can opt for the more advanced Pro plan that costs $35 a month. This plan offers IFTA reporting, fuel optimization, vehicle diagnostics, and a built-in WiFi hotspot.

Also, facility insights, driver scorecards, a driver coaching workflow (with the KeepTruckin Smart Dashcam), and other advanced features, in addition to the basic plan functionalities.

With the Pro plan, there’s no need to purchase a cellular data plan for your drivers ($15/month). The WiFi hotspot has you covered.

2. Transflo ELD T-Series – The Best GPS-Based ELD Device

With ELD T-series from Transflo, you can expect one of the best telematics and mobile strategies for managing your fleet. Since everyone rushed to meet the deadline for the ELD mandate, they didn’t have enough time to test products like the T7.

This is because this device came to market later on, but ended up being one of the best ELD devices. As a matter of fact, Transflo ELD T-series has been certified by the FMCSA to meet the stringiest requirements.

The T-Series Is More Than Just an ELD

In addition to the robust and reliable device, the manufacturer offers one of the leading fleet tracking software today. With such a solution at your disposal, you will be able to collect data from each of the electronic logging devices installed in your trucks.

This innovative electronic logging device solution allows you to collect such information as individual truck locations and truckloads in real-time.

What’s more, this device saves the hassle of unnecessary expenses. You can put a stop to these types of expenses, ones associated with out-of-route miles and unauthorized vehicle usage in your fleet.

Further Reviewing the Transflo ELD

In this regard, Transflo Telematics offers fleet managers one of the best fleet management software and GPS fleet tracking in one package. With this ELD solution, you will also be able to streamline operational expenses for each one of your trucks.

With this system, the drivers will be able to use the free to download the mobile app to manage electronic logs. The provider relies on their actual device, mobile electronic log App, and the Transflo Telematics Portal to bring you a powerful, yet simple fleet management system.

One installed in the trucks, the T-series device will be using engine hours, engine status, idling, vehicle mileage, and movement to accurately populate electronic truck logs for each driver in your fleet.

After Installing This Device

After installation of the T-series in your trucks, drivers will be required to install the Transflo Electronic Logs and Mobile App on their phones or tablets.

This app will allow the drivers to access vehicle inspection reports (DVIR), electronic logs and commodity lists, among other things from the ELD device. As for the fleet managers, this product gives you complete control over the whole system.

As the fleet manager, you will be using the Transflo Telematics Portal to view the performance and safety data on each one of your trucks. The software allows you to see how each one of your trucks is being operated.

Finally, Transflo’s ELD devices all come with a lifetime warranty. With 24 hour support from this provider, you’re sure to be in good hands.

Even More Features & Support

Transflo now offers advanced ELDs with 4G connectivity and even faster processors. If you have a fleet of 25 or more trucks, you won’t incur any upfront hardware costs.

Transflo also offers a Compliance Package Bundle that includes ELD and mobile app integration with features like weigh station bypass, truck GPS navigation, and unlimited doc scanning.

3. Omnitracs (IVG) Intelligent Vehicle Gateway Master Pack – The Best Hands-Free ELD Device

For decades now, Omnitracs has been offering fleet management and tracking solutions to its clients. The Omnitracs Intelligent Vehicle Gateway Master Pack (IVG) ELD is one of the best products ever made by the provider.

Omnitracs is known to be among the first providers to the ELD space, so they are among the early adopters. Their products are known to provide accurate and robust features.

To begin with, the device itself features a sleek, compact and modern design. The product features an array of functionalities relevant to drivers and fleet managers. In addition to its appealing aesthetics, the product has been approved by the FMCSA.

Why We Love the Omnitracs IVG

If you are looking for an experienced and reliable provider, the IVG by Omnitracs won’t fail you. This is because it helps you reduce costs, improves safety and productivity, and boasts an easy to use Vehicle Inspection Report.

Omnitracs has been a preferred partner for truck drivers and fleet managers for more than 30 years. The provider offers fairly affordable pricing plans, which we’ll discuss below. Omnitracs offers several device options, as well as low monthly fee plans.

Further Review of Omintracs IVG

Once you have purchased the product, you will be contacted by the provider to set up a new service or provide an existing Omnitracs account number. This will cost you a one-time setup fee of $199 plus $25 for each of the trucks in your fleet.

This next-generation telematics solution offers a single application-enabling platform to make things easier for you. The unit features an Intelligent Voice Interface. This feature allows drivers to have hands-free access to important information on the ELD.

Drivers will love the Intuitive message notifications offered by this product as they result in less distractions. What’s more, this ELD offers fault monitoring through its application, in the event your truck brings up common fault codes.

Other features we love from Omnitrac are the weight station bypass, media manager, trailer tracking, and more.

4. Rand McNally ELD 50 – Easy to Install Electronic Logging Device

Get yourself an ELD device that installs in seconds; you only need to plug your Rand McNally ELD 50 to the J-Bus port, download the DriverConnect app, select a monthly plan and you are ready to go.

The product allows you to pair your ELD with a tablet or smartphone using Bluetooth. Once connected, you can use your cellular data plan to store logs from the device to the Web Portal.

Stay Connected Without Cell Connectivity

However, the functioning of the product will not be affected by a poor connection. In the absence of the connected phone or cellular connection, the ELD will continue to record HOS logs and store them temporarily on the device.

In such a case, the device is capable of storing your recorded HOS logs for up to 2 days. The device will also send you a notification when its memory is full so that you can transfer the data. When this happens, you will need to sync it to a tablet or Smartphone and transfer the data.

More Features from Rand McNally’s ELD 50

The Rand McNally DriverConnect App is available for free for both iOS and Android devices. This App allows you to certify or view logs, send and receive messages, complete DVIRs and do several other things.

The device itself transmits engine data on the installed truck to the DriverConnect app. With such information, you will be able to make different engine diagnostics, including average fuel economy, battery voltage, boost pressure, coolant temperature and oil pressure.

5. BigRoad DashLink ELD – The ELD for Smaller Fleets

Are you operating on a limited budget? If so, it will be challenging for you to pay an upfront cost for the best ELD device, bearing in mind that a good number of them are expensive.

To save you from this burden, BigRoad offers you a solution with zero upfront hardware costs. Instead, the provider requires you to pay $19.50 per month. As such, a good number of owners and fleet managers find the product to be very affordable.

Remain Compliant with this ELD Solution

With the DashLink ELD, BigRoad is offering you an affordable logging solution that is compliant with both DOT and FMCSA requirements. The product is specifically designed for smaller fleets.

As such, it does not have the reporting and tracking features needed to manage larger fleets. With this product installed in your track, you will have a reliable way of creating engine logs.

More on the DashLink ELD

With regard to versatility, the DashLink ELD is interchangeable between drivers and vehicles. Again, the product may be used as an automatic onboard recording device (AOBRD) or an ELD device. As such, you may start using the device as your AOBRD for the time being and still be able to transition to the ELD system when the time comes.

For owner-operators or managers of small fleets, this product is designed to offer you a great hours-of-service (HOS) compliance alternative. Although this is a more affordable option, it will still allow you to maintain your margins and comply with the ELD mandate requirements.

6. J.J. KELLER Encompass ELog Electronic Logging Device – The Best Compliance ELD

J.J. Keller is a renowned provider when it comes to tracking your fleet and remaining compliant. Having been in business for a comparatively long period, this provider is knowledgeable on what is required for ELD compliance.

In this regard, the provider offers you one of the best ELD devices, the J.J KELLER Encompass ELD. The device is rather simple in design and functionality.

This Encompass ELD is primarily designed to just meet ELD compliance requirements. As such, it only has a limited number of features to offer, including DVIRs and Logs.

More Add-Ons & Features

GPS tracking and Navigation are some of the fancy add-on features you will love about this product. Other features you will find in this unit include messaging, document scanning capabilities and engine diagnostics.

The Encompass back office for this product has an array of compliance tools to offer. The installation of this product is very easy. To connect. simply insert the ELD device to the diagnostic port in your truck.

You will then need to pair the device with your tablet or Smartphone via Bluetooth. Although you can get financing options for this product, the upfront price of the device is just $199.

More on the J.J. Keller Device

Most financing options for this product are quite affordable, most of which come as a 2-year contract. The provider also offers a one-time implementation and training fee for the drivers, which depends on your fleet size.

If you bring your own display device, the J.J KELLER fleet management will be available to you for $25.50 per month. By choosing this plan, you should also expect to spend about $15 in cellular data charges.

If you decide to buy the tablet provided with your J.J. Keller ELD service, your fee will be $59 per month. This fee will also cover your Verizon data plan. If you have more drivers than vehicles in your fleet, the provider will charge you an extra $3.50 per month for each additional driver.

7. Linxup ELD – The Best Dedicated ELD Solution

If you are conversant with the trucking compliance industry, you probably are aware that Linxup is a leading provider of asset trackers and GPS fleet management tools.

The Linxup ELD device by this provider has been certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. With the ELD mandate deadline approaching, you will find this product to meet the requirements.

In addition to being compliant with FMCSA requirements, this you will find this product very helpful in several ways. The product allows you to have better roadside inspections on your truck and to better your CSA score.

Easily Pass DOT Audits

This makes the Linxup ELD a preferred logging device for owner-operators. Additionally, the ELD will ensure that you remain on the good side of DOT audits and interventions.

Essentially, the device is designed to accurately keep track of your hours of service (HOS), alert the driver and fleet manager of serious violations and give you access to roadside inspections.

Linxup ELD Top Features

With this device, you will also be able to change the driver duty status, something many other ELDs may not offer. The Linxup ELD also has something to offer fleet managers. The product helps fleet managers track maintenance reports for various vehicles and the time spent idling.

As a result, you will be able to prevent fuel wastage and manage your vehicles in a better way for improved profitability.

The provider also offers award-winning GPS fleet tracking and allows you to monitor several aspects of each one of your trucks. For instance, the provider can help you monitor the speed, direction and address of each vehicle in real-time.

8. Gorilla Safety ELD – The Best Complete Fleet Management Solution

Gorilla Safety may be a new player in the fleet management industry, but their device is no joke. In this regard, the Gorilla Safety ELD is one of the best electronic logging devices, mainly due to its time-saving features and ease of use.

The company was founded in 2013 to help fleets with accident investigations, CSA scores, driver training and maintenance programs.

Plenty of Features from Gorilla Safety

Following the publishing of ELD requirements, Gorilla Safety was among the very first providers to integrate full fleet management solutions. As a result, the Gorilla Safety ELD offers much more than compliance to ELD mandate.

The provider offers you a complete package, comprising of the actual device, Elog mobile App, website and an array of additional features. This ELD’s solution has been proven to make fleet management easier and more efficient.

Easy Installation & Updates

The installation of the device itself is relatively easy. The product comes with 9-pin and 6-pin adapters to connect to the diagnostic port in the truck.

Essentially, this ELD unit is a plug and play device, which makes the installation even easier. You will also like the fact that the ELD allows you to update software. Fleet managers will have full access to Gorilla’s Web Dashboard to store and view vital details.

This dashboard will notify you when documents are about to expire for each of the trucks, as well as when inspections are required. Additionally, the product is packed with an array of tools that are meant to make fleet management easier for you.

9. PeopleNet Display.4 –The Best High-End Electronic Logging Device

If you do not mind spending more money to get a powerful fleet management solution, you should consider buying the PeopleNet Display 4 ELD.

While the former PD 4 is not a typical ELD device, the product is a great AOBRD device and you will still be able to use it. Also, the provider recently announced that it will be selling ISE Fleet Services’ eFleetSuite ELDs.

Being one of the premier fleet management providers in the industry, you should expect nothing short of quality from this company. The PD 4 device hardware is available in several varieties, such as consumer-grade Android options.

One of the renowned devices by this manufacturer is the Display.4 proprietary tablet. This product offers an easy to use, touch-screen display interface. Additionally, many users have reported this device to be highly reliable, with minimal probability of failing.

Reliable Reporting & Powerful Device

In addition to the robust and reliable device, the provider will also offer you superior back-office tools and reports. Such a system presents you with a more powerful, yet simple way of managing and keeping track of your vehicle performance. The provider also happens to be one of the very first dedicated fleet management companies to offer support for 4G LTE cellular communication.

As part of their dedicated fleet management system, the provider offers the ISE ELDs to fleets with less than 50 vehicles. The ELDs are self-certified and have been proven to be compliant with FMCSA requirements.

10. Blue Ink Technology – The Best Low-Cost Electronic Logging Device

Ease of installation, reliable fleet management tools, and affordability are some of the best selling points of the Blue Ink Technology (BIT) ELD device.

As you may have noticed, almost all electronic logging providers require a monthly fee for their services. This is how Blue Ink ELD is different. This device does not require you to pay any monthly fees.

For a relatively low one-time cost, you will get the easy-to-use, accurate Blue Ink Technology LED, FMCSA Certified BIT ELD App and access to their website.

Although the product is quite reliable, it is only suited for light to medium-duty vehicles. The fact that it does not require a monthly subscription makes it one of the most affordable ELD solutions out there.

An Affordable ELD Solution

While it is a low-cost option, the BIT ELD allows you to use the BIT app on your phone to record your hours of service. The product may be moved from one vehicle to another, allowing you to record your HOS in different vehicles. The ELD device is registered with FMCSA and is compliant with both DOT and FMCSA regulations.

In addition to maintaining accurate and up to date logs, this device will help you carry out several other tasks. For instance, you will be able to update duty status whenever you need to, certify and view logs from the previous day.

The product will also ensure that you have 8-14 days worth of logs for your cycle sets. You can also use this ELD to find out any flag issue with your truck.

11. EROAD Ehubo ELD – The Best ELD for Enhanced Driving Behavior

Fleet management and FMCS compliance has never been easier than it is with the EROAD Ehubo ELD. Being a top ELD solution, the Eroad Ehubo ELD makes fleet management more effective and easier.

In its functioning, the unit uses an electronic distance recorder to record, store and transmit data through a cellular network.

With this product, you will be able to monitor important information about your vehicles, including location, route, and distance among other details.

The hardware itself features a robust design that has been proven to be tamper-evident and ideal for use in a wide range of temperatures. The product uses external sensors and internal sensors to accurately measure the distance traveled.

Very Accurate Reporting & Performance

In addition to these, the unit also relies on micro-electrical-mechanical systems (MEMs), vehicle data and GPS to deliver an exceptionally high degree of accuracy. The product uses a rather unique technology platform. The platform is specifically designed to deliver high performance, whilst maintaining the required evidential and financial standards.

The EROAD ELD has undergone several audits by the relevant regulatory bodies in the USA and New Zealand to prove its effectiveness and compliance.

12. Ezlogz ELD – The Most Affordable ELD

The Ezlogz ELD is a leading ELD provider that utilizing block chain technology for its all-in-one solution. Utilizing the Ethereum Blockchain, data is transmitted and secured easily to insure a tamper-proof system.

The ELD is the smallest and one of the smartest on the market with an easy to install app for both iphone and android, the Ezlogz platform can be used by any driver or fleet manager.

The product features an app that provides tons of functionality including trip planner, pin point mode, CB radio, diagnostics reports, HOS, automatic offline mode, document scan and email, a social media platform, and much more…

The product may also be integrated with navigation systems. This will allow the driver to operate safely and more efficiently. When used appropriately, this product has a horde of benefits to offer drivers and fleet managers.

Can Help You Improve Fleet Efficiency

With the trip planner function, the platform automatically takes into account factors such as weather, traffic conditions, and the driver’s current hour to accurately estimate a driver’s estimated time of arrival. This functionality alone makes fleet planning much more predicatable.

Going beyond trip planning, the social and communication tools offered by the Ezlogz platform is a game-changer in allowing fleets to communicate with their drivers, get immediate updates on truck down time for maintenance issues and tons of other benefits communication and immediate document transfer allows.

13. Samsara ELD – The Best Lightweight ELD

Get truly innovative electronic logging devices for your trucks. Although the primary objective of installing the devices may be to meet FMCSA requirements, you should not just leave it at that.

It always helps to buy a product that can do much more and make your work easier. The Samsara ELD device is one such device. The product couples superior fleet management technology with Sensors and GPS technologies. This helps enhance compliance and safety.

The product was mainly designed to streamline operations for both drivers and fleet managers. The reason we love Samsara is because it is easy to use, features a modern design, and can be used in a large fleet of up to 10,000 vehicles.

Go To Samsara

More on Samsara ELD

With this unit, you will simplify management and reduce operational costs in your fleet. In this regard, the product gives you accurate HOS, Wi-Fi, GPS, maintenance and dispatch data on the various vehicles in your fleet.

Once the ELD is installed, individual vehicles will be transmitting live data through the gateway to the linked devices. Using the Driver App in their phones, drivers will be able to manage their HOS logs as well as violations from. The product also allows you to manage critical violations from the dashboard.

14. AT&T Fleet Complete – The Best Electronic Logging Device Below $50

The AT&T Fleet Complete ELD is one of many ELD devices designed to automate elog books, save time, and expedite DVIR reporting. Also, speed up inspections for your vehicles. Whilst doing all these things, the product will also help you comply with ELD mandate requirements.

Once you have connected the device to the engine module in your vehicle, you will need to install the ELD mobile App on your phone. This will allow you to view your available drive time as well as current driver status. You can also use this App to update your duty status.

More on AT&T Fleet Complete

However, the device will automatically set the status to drive when it detects a movement faster than 2 MPH. The ELD will also send you notifications on violation thresholds. As such, the product will help you manage violations, better your CSA score and remain compliant.

15. Verizon Connect – Best ELD for Mid-Sized Fleets

As you may have noticed, the leading telecommunication giants are now venturing into the fleet management sector. The Verizon Connect Reveal ELD by Verizon is one of the products that are designed to offer you great value for money.

In this regard, the product is sold as a bundled product. Basically, Connect Reveal serves as a one-stop-shop for fleet managers and drivers trying to comply with the ELD mandate requirements.

Despite its simple design, the product has been listed as one of the FMCSA compliant electronic logging devices in the market. The provider allows its customers to choose from an array of hardware and monthly software payment plans.

More on Verizon Connect

Once installed, this solution will offer you onboarding assistance, a two-way messaging platform, DVIR software, compliance reporting, and mobile device management, among other features.

It’s worth noting that Verizon also bought Fleetmatics Reveal, so they acquired the technology of that device. Hopefully, we will see more features from Verizon Connect in the future.

16. CarrierWeb CarrierMater

Get your business a solution that allows for easy, convenient and affordable compliance with FMCSA mandate requirements. The ELD solution from CarrierWeb serves as one of the best fleet management solutions you can find in the industry.

Some of the capabilities you will come to love about this system include unrestricted data communication, 2 way messaging, driver performance and behavior monitoring, maintenance, and more.

The stand-Alone ELD device is rather easy to install and use as it is a plug-and-play device. In addition to this, the device has a horde of features and capabilities to offer commercial vehicle drivers, fleet managers, and owners.

Data Recording

Data recording technologies for commercial vehicles are constantly evolving. Again, the ELD mandate requires drivers to record certain aspects of their driving activity automatically. In this regard, this provider has equipped the CarrierWeb CarrierMate with an array of data recording capabilities.

For instance, the device is capable of recording vehicle events, driver log, truck stop and traveling status detection, driver logs, refueling tracking, and shipment documents.

The device is also capable of recording the odometer readings, idling analysis, inspection reports and vehicle speeds. The system will also keep track of mechanical and electrical defect reporting as well as global positioning acquisition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lcvd5TfdQnQ

While we only covered the CarrierMate in this review, it is important to note that CarrierWeb has other solutions to cover all aspects of your transportation businesses needs, including:

• Fleet Management
• Reefer Management
• Trailer Management
• Fuel Management

CarrierMate Benefits

• Many useful features like fuel consumption analysis, GPS tracking, two-way messaging, and so on
• Cost-effective management solution for fleets
• Seamless connectivity
• Unlimited data communication
• SpeedGauge integration
• FMCSA registered
• Easy to install and use

CarrierMate Downsides

• It’s a bit difficult to access log edits
• The device feels and looks a little dated

17. Garmin ELD – Best ELD With GPS Capabilities

The Garmin ELD is basically a stand-alone ELD device that is designed to ensure driver and truck compliance to the FMCSA mandate. One of the things fleet managers and owners have come to love about this product is its affordability. In this or hard, the provider only requires you to an upfront cost for the ELD hardware.

Although try solution does not require monthly subscription payments, it will suffice for your compliance reporting needs. Again, changing duty status on this device I’d comparatively easy. The Driver app by this provider will also allow you to view the resining hours for that day or even week.

So, what exactly makes the Garmin eLog ELD a preferred logging option among truckers today?

Enhanced Compatibility and Versatility

As you will come to learn, the eLog ELD device is compatible with a vast array of vehicle makes and models. In order to allow for this, try a device that is specifically made to fit 9-pin as well as 6-pin diagnostic port installations.

Again, the Garmin Driver mobile app that is required for use with the ELD device is compatible with almost any Smartphone.

Having connected this app to the ELD device, the required compliance data will be automatically collected and stored securely on the linked Smartphone. During inspections, drivers can easily access this data via the USB port on the device, FMSCA Web services or Bluetooth.

Easy to Install and Use

The product comes n all-in-one device that is compatible with most semi-trucks in use today. The initial setup of the logging device is rather easy and does not require any technical skills. In this case, you only need to unpack your Garmin ELD and plug it into the diagnostic port of the vehicle.

Afterwards, you will be required to download and install the free Garmin Eloy app into your Smartphone. The app is free and easy to download from Google play store and Apple app store. Once that’s done, you only need to link the app to the ELD device, and you are ready to go.

Garmin ELD Benefits

• Does not require monthly subscription payments
• Automates HOS logging
• Compatible with almost all commercial vehicles
• The driver app may be used on almost any Smartphone
• Data is securely AF conveniently stored in the linked smartphone
• Comparatively easy to set up and use

Drawbacks

The device is not compatible with vehicles that use the OBD2 protocol. Occasional software glitches may cause try device to either freeze or reconnect while in use.

18. Teletrac Navman ELD – Ideal Solution for Large Fleets

Nowadays, it is a requirement for commercial fleets to comply with the FMCSA ELD mandate requirements. The initial step towards compliance is getting an electronic logging device that is approved by the FMCSA.

In this regard, Teletrac Navman ELD is one of the best solutions. The device is essentially designed to make your day-to-day compliance tasks easier and more convenient.

As you will come to learn, the solution offers an easy and accurate technology for your fleet to record the relevant data. Once installed, the device will automatically record such data as driver activity or vehicle operation data like a record of duty status (RODs) and hours of service (HOS). However, you will also have the opportunity to edit some of these entries manually.

Other capabilities you will come to like about the Teletrac Navman ELD include:

Automated and Accurate Compliance

Just as is the case with any of the best ELD devices, the Teletrac Navman device is meant to eliminate hours of paperwork in your fleet. Again, it will do away with the tiring and never-ending filing, faxing and paper trail.

For more than 10 years now, the provider has been offering some of the most reliable automate compliance solutions in the trucking industry. Such a solution will ensure that you are always ahead of the constantly changing compliance requirements.

All this is made easier by the intelligent electronic compliance solution by the provider. This solution will allow for accurate compliance data collection. In addition to compliance reporting, the system will equip you with such data as fuel taxes, driver behavior, and vehicle inspection. Such is the data you will need to make informed business decisions in your fleet.

The device will mainly funnel IFTA, DVIR, and ELD through a single platform. Over the years, this has been proven to reduce work for your employees. Again, it also guarantees FMCSA compliance for fleets as well as owner-operators in the industry. With time, such capabilities will also improve your fleet profile with such federal programs as compliance, safety accountability (CSA).

GPS and Fleet Management Tools

More than 40,000 businesses are currently using fleet management and GPS tracking solutions by this provider. To begin with, the solution is built on a rather flexible infrastructure, allowing for seamless integration with other business systems. The solution is essentially designed to turn the data collected by the ELD into actionable business data.

In this regard, the Teletrac fleet management platform equips your dispatchers, drivers and decision-makers with real-time insights into the fleet. This has been proven t result in a compliance and well-connected workforce that is capable of making moment-to-moment, conscious business decisions. All these will lead to improved customer service for the continued success of your commercial fleet business.

Teletrac Navman ELD Benefits

• Accurate transfer of ELD data
• Relatively easy to install and use
• Offers state-of-the-art navigation tools
• The provider offers an array of training programs
• Comparatively affordable
• Uses a pay-as-you-go model

Drawbacks

The user interface for the driver application is rather complicated and hard to learn. Again, the ELD hardware offered by this provider is not so reliable. The support offered by the provider is also a bit questionable.

19. Pedigree ELD Chrome – Electronic Logging Device with Compliance In Mind

Are you currently shopping for an affordable, intuitive and dependable ELD mandate compliance device for your fleet? The Pedigree ELD Chrome solution is tailor-made to suit your specific business requirements.

As you may be aware, the provider is renowned for offering some of the best AOBRDs for more than 12 years now. Similarly, the ELD solution by the provider is reliable, intuitive, easy to use and compliant.

You will also come to like the superior and timely customer support offered by the provider. The award-winning OneView ELD has an array of built-in options to suit different business requirements. This solution is not only compliant with mandate requirements; you will find it to be highly scalable.

Other aspects that make the Pedigree ELD Chrome device stand out from the rest include:

Cab-Mate One

The Cab-Mate One device is one of the fastest, accurate and easy to use compliance solutions in the market today. To begin with, you will find the solution relatively easy to install.

Additionally, it allows for easy management of the fleet using the high-quality built-design device. The device is ideally designed for use with the ELD software by the provider. However, you will also find it quite expandable with OneView applications.

The device is essentially a ruggedized, long-lasting tablet. The device comes with a powerful communication cable and cradle mount for easy and quick installation. The solution features a dependable wired connection, eliminating the need for Bluetooth and broadband data plans. The device is also growth-oriented and highly expandable.

Enhanced Visibility

Formerly referred to as FleetPOV, ELD Chrome is capable of recording critical compliance data electronically. In this regard, the device will record such data as vehicle inspection reports, driving hours, and state mileage and fuel receipts for the various vehicles in your fleet. Additionally, you may also use this device for other related applications like electronic work orders and dispatching.

Generating electronic logbooks using this solution has been proven to meet and possibly exceed the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements. The solution has also been proven to streamline reporting and enhance accuracy for fleets.

In order to allow for enhanced visibility of the fleet, this solution supports such capabilities as automated fuel tax reporting (IFTA), Driver Vehicle Inspection Reporting (DVIR), Electronic Driver Logs (FMCSA-Certified), Two-Way Messaging, Fuel Purchase Forms generation, and Document Image Capture.

An Expandable, Open Platform

In addition to offering your business so many benefits, the OneView platform is highly customizable. In this regard, the solution is mainly designed for growth with an array of expandable solutions.

Whether the solution is used for enterprise, safety compliance or performance, you will find it to be highly scalable. The provider offers OneView APIs, allowing for integrations with third-party services and business growth.

Pedigree ELD Chrome Benefits

• Offers enhanced control and visibility
• Highly expandable and scalable
• Offers complete visibility into your fleet
• Offers automated reporting
• Portable ELD solution
• Offers unique HOS tools
• Dedicated and strong customer service

Drawbacks

You may need a considerable amount of training to use this solution. You may also find it a bit costly to get minimum compliance with this provider.

20. Stoneridge EZ-ELD – Simple Solution for Owner Operators

Stoneridge’s electronic logging device, EZ-ELD, is a truck driver’s and fleet manager’s simplest solution.  It helps with tracking, managing, and sharing records of duty status (RODS) data from any commercial vehicle. It doesn’t matter if you have a 6-pin, 9-pin or an OBD-II port.

With more than 60 years of experience serving commercial fleets, Stoneridge’s EZ-ELD is designed with the truck driver in mind. The device is easy to install, easy to use, and an affordable way to comply with the ELD mandate.

With ELD legislation affecting over 3 million drivers, Stoneridge’s EZ-ELD is a simple, quick and reliable solution to fleet safety and driver compliance.

100% Compliant With The New FMSCA Regulations

The EZ-ELD is FMCSA-certified to provide total control of your compliance obligations. Stoneridge is a well-known public company that has been an OEM parts supplier to the trucking and automotive industries for over a decade.

This ELD has been extensively tested and certified to ensure that it will fully comply with all regulations now and in the future. Your drivers will easily be able to pass a roadside inspection.

Multiple Adapters for Easy Switching Between Vehicles

This is the ONLY ELD solution with interchangeable truck connectors, so the device can be transferred between any driver and vehicle with a 9-pin, 6-pin or OBDII OBD port.

The package includes four adapters, so you can easily plug the device into any vehicle or quickly switch the ELD to and from any truck in your fleet. The EZ-ELD is also tamper-resistant for enhanced security, even when changing vehicles.

Very Easy to Setup & Install

The Stoneridge EZ-ELD has a unique “Scan and Drive” truck and driver pairing system that allows the driver to simply scan the QR code on the device when they get in the truck. The FREE mobile app is available for both Apple iOS and Android devices.

The EZ-ELD features quick and easy plug-and-play installation and a simple, intuitive user interface for drivers via mobile apps on their smartphones.

Powerful Back-Office Features to Manage Your Fleet

The EZ-ELD allows the office to monitor, control, report and comply with the new standards for driver service hours. But it also has a host of other features that help you run your fleet more efficiently.

The web-based back office software lets fleet managers see the vehicle’s location in real-time, plus speed, odometer, fuel efficiency, engine alerts and more. Of course, each EZ-ELD provides full HOS, IFTA and DVIR reporting.

Low Cost of Ownership & Added Value

As the new FMCSA regulations change & evolve, your EZ-ELD will stay updated along with the government’s policies. The firmware automatically updates and adds new features as they become available, so your EZ-ELD will be even more powerful and compliant in the future.

Legal and product support are included no extra charge. Note: Each truck requires a device plus a subscription (details on the subscription can be found below).

Things You Need to Know Before Choosing an ELD Device

Like many other drivers and fleet managers in the US, you were probably accustomed to paper logs. Well, as you already know, using an ELD device is required and paper logs just won’t do anymore. If you are caught using paper logs, you could face a fine of $1,000 or higher.

As such, the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate must have caught you by surprise.  Do not worry, you are not alone. While the ELD mandate is official now, there are groups out there like the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association where you can learn your rights as a driver.

Just like any other law, the ELD mandate has several requirements that have to be met by all truck drivers. While not widespread, there are exceptions to the rule. For example, the FMSCA recently considered extending the current 14-hour on-duty limitation by up to two hours, if they meet certain criteria.

AOBRDs are a Thing of the Past

After December 16th, 2019 AOBRDs are no longer acceptable for logging your driving records, you are now required by law to have a certified ELD

While it is now a requirement for trucks to have these devices, there are still many things that drivers and fleet managers do not understand about ELDs.

While trying to beat the deadline, many users are likely to make rash decisions and end up buying the wrong ELD. Prior to choosing an ELD device and service provider, here are some of the important things you should consider:

1. Compatibility and Ease of Use

Well, this is a new technology and everyone is trying to figure out which Electronic Logging Device solutions will suite his or her application.

If you own or manage a fleet of vehicles, you are likely to have different makes and models of trucks in your fleet. As such, it is advisable to get an ELD solution that works with almost any class of vehicles.

You may not know this yet, but getting a universal solution will save you some money and time in several ways.

For instance, you will not have to train your personnel and drives how to install and operate multiple systems from time to time.  Again, having a universal ELD solution makes things easier for you and the drivers.

Get an ELD That’s Easy to Use

You also need to understand that you may need to sell your truck and buy a new one in the future. With a universal solution, you will not have to buy a new device for the new vehicle.

Another thing you should pay attention to is the complexity of the solution. Drivers are busy people as is; you should not make their working conditions more difficult by purchasing complicated ELD devices.

Get a solution that is comparatively easy to master and use for everyone. It is advisable to buy a device that drivers find easier to complete vehicle inspections, update status and deliver compliance reports. In this case, you should get a product with a user-friendly interface.

2. Fleet Management System and Configuration

Normally, ELD providers offer fleet management for their devices as well. However, this may not always be the case.

Therefore, you must check to see whether the provider offers fleet management as well, before buying your preferred ELD.

With this service, it will be easier for you to manage your truck through the device. This will, in turn, improve the productivity and efficiency of your fleet.

Get a device that is highly configurable, offers continuous upgrades, and updates itself according to new rulings. As a basic rule, the best ELD device should offer much more than just the minimum info required for RODS reports.

More on the Configuration

It is advisable to settle for software that may be configured to your specific needs. As ELD technology advances, you will need to upgrade your device in the future or buy a new one.

Therefore, your preferred ELD solution should also be upgradable. In a bid to give their clients unfiltered access to truck data, many of the leading ELD providers today are giving out open APIs and free Software Development Kits (SDK) with every purchase of their ELD.

When it comes to configuration, you need to get a device that allows for integration with several third-party solutions. This means cameras, fuel cards, TMS applications, and temperature sensors.

Such ELD solutions have been proven to offer truck owners the best value for money and access to comprehensive truck data.

3. Cloud-Based, Robust ELD Models

Whichever way you look at it, cloud-based ELD solutions are superior to conventional electronic logging device solutions. Hours of service are integral to the success of your business.

As such, you must emphasize on the reliability of the solution you are buying. In this regard, an ELD solution that leverages on cloud computing will prove to be more reliable as well as robust.

As you may have learned already, the incorporation of cloud computing into these devices has proven to be beneficial in a number of ways.

Some of the key benefits associated with cloud-based ELD features include:

• Does not require wireless pairing with other devices to transfer and store data securely
• More reliable – a simple malfunction of the paired phone will not affect data collection and storage or retrieval by the ELD.
• Easier for drivers to maintain accurate logs, even when operating different trucks
• Compatible with several platforms, including iOS and Android
• Enhanced battery life – cloud technology only triggers the ELD to wake up when a notification needs to be delivered to the driver. As such, cloud-based ELD units have been proven to have relatively lower power consumption.
• Consistency in coverage – the functioning of such products does not rely on cellular coverage. As such, the functioning of the device will not be affected by cellular coverage. You will find such a system more reliable when the truck is driving into and out of cellular coverage.

4. Event-Based ELD Solution

Most ELD solutions operate using a time-based manner. In this regard, the solution will periodically seek to find out where the device is and how fast it is moving and then store such data.

Depending on the ELD service you are using, this time ping can occur in intervals of 1 to 15 minutes. Such data will help ascertain what might have happened to the vehicle for the period the ELD was not communicating.

However, there are many things that can happen to a vehicle within such a time frame. For more accurate data, you should get a solution that is event-based.

This is to say that the device will only record and transmit data when there is an event change. Such events can be speed, location, harsh acceleration or braking, and engine diagnostics. Such a system will help you manage your trucks more effectively, don’t you think?

5. Continuous Off-grid Logging

Some of the best ELD devices in the market rely on the availability of a cellular network to record and transmit data. Such a product will not work when the truck is out of the coverage area.

In some cases, limited coverage of cellular network has also been said to affect the functioning of such ELDs. When shopping for the best ELD for your truck, you should get one that is not affected by cellular coverage.

You need to ensure that the device will continue logging, even when the signal is limited or unavailable. During the period of outage, some units are designed to collect and store data in the connected tablet or Smartphone. The cloud-based models will store the data in the cloud, safe for retrieval anytime you need it.

6. Enhanced Safety Features

If you are an owner-operator, you probably know how important it is for you to maintain a good safety score.

Costly violations on the road will not only be eating into the profits of your business; they will also make you less attractive to insurers and brokers. You do not want this to happen, right?

Therefore, you need to invest in an ELD solution that allows you to proactively manage violations prior to inspections.

In this regard, a considerable number of ELD providers are offering an array of in-app notifications to help you steer clear of certain violations. With such a feature in your ELD solution, you will avoid several violations during inspections; hence maintain a great CSA score.

7. Is the ELD Registered with FMCSA?

Before making the final decision, you should take time to check the ELD list registered with FMCSA. Basically, it is not advisable to buy your ELD solution from vendors who are not on this list. With a vendor on this list, you can rest assured that you are buying a product that meets the required ELD technical specifications.

The devices being sold by the registered vendors have also been self-certified. Additionally, the products by the registered vendors have been proven to meet FMCSA requirement. The reason you are buying the product is to be on the safe side of the law, right? As such, it will not be wise for you to invest in a product that does not meet FMCSA requirements.

8. ELD Provider Reputation

The increasing demand for ELD products has seen more providers establishing themselves in different parts of the country. Unfortunately, not all the providers available today are as good as they seem to be.

No hidden fee applied.  Be sure there are no additional/hidden fees. Ask ELD providers for all costs upfront, and look for the ones that offer reports and forms free of charge.

In addition to selling you the ELD unit, the provider will also be providing support and several other ongoing services. For this, you are required to pay a monthly fee. To ensure that you are investing in a good product, it is advisable to carry out a background check on your preferred ELD provider.

To begin with, companies that have been offering this service for a considerable period are more experienced in the field. You may need to take a look at the reviews left behind by the clients the provider has served in the past.

This will give you a better idea of what to expect.  You should also buy from trustworthy providers. Some providers are known to charge hidden charges on your monthly fees. Try to avoid this while shopping for the best electronic logging device for your truck(s).

ELD FAQs

Our Final Review

The deadline for installing electronic logging devices in commercial vehicles was December 18th, 2017.

This move has seen many fleet managers, owner-operators and fleet managers rushing to equip their vehicles with ELD devices. Before you do this, you need to stop and consider whether you are investing in the right product.

As you have learned in this guide, there are several aspects that you need to consider while shopping for the best ELD devices.

Whether you are looking for an affordable solution or simply want the best back-office tools and services, this guide will help you decide on which device is right for you.