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Category: ELD

FMCSA considering ELD rule revisions

Posted on by Yumi

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) has published a list of ELD mandate changes their goal is to improve the clarity of current regulations on the use of electronic logging devices (ELD’s) and address certain concerns about the technical specifications raised by industry stakeholders. FMCSA seeks industry comments on this public notice by November 15, 2022.

Some of the potential changes could improve ELD functionality and its standards. This will eventually help industries choose the right ELD when shopping for a suitable product.

The potential changes are the followings;

  1. Applicability to Pre-2000 Engines
  2. Addressing ELD Malfunctions
  3. Removal Process
  4. Technical Specifications
  5. ELD Certification

 

ELD Certification

Unlike Canada’s ELD Certification process, FMCSA accepts a self-certification process for ELDs. What is self-certification?

In the U.S., ELD’s are certified by service providers working with manufacturer’s hardware, not the FMCSA. In order to get certified, service providers are required to register their own ELD service, with compatible devices. They self test their ELD devices to meet all technical specifications detailed in the ELD Rules provided by the FMCSA. After they meet all requirements, verified ELDs can be self-certified and registered with FMCSA.

 

This process has been highly criticized. In Canada, an ELD must be certified by a third-party verification agency approved by the government. The third-party evaluates the service provider’s chosen ELD device, or devices, to determine whether they meet all regulatory requirements. In the list published by FMCSA, FMCSA is asking if it should establish a certification process for ELDs here in the U.S., and if so, what a certification process should consist of, and what would be the impact to the industry with existing services in operation today.

If the certification process is implemented, it’s going to be a big change in agency staff, state enforcement personnel, ELD providers, and the industry.

 

Removal process from FMCSA’s list of ELD-certified devices

There are several questions about the process for revoking non-compliant ELD from the list of registered self-certified ELDs.

  • If an ELD provider goes out of business and fails to self-revoke, should FMCSA be able to immediately remove the device from the registered ELD list?

 

  • The ELD rule requires ELD providers to keep their information current. However, the rule does not include a time restriction. Should FMCSA require ELD providers to update their listing within 30 calendar days of any change to their registration information found in section 5.1.1? Additionally, should ELD providers be required to confirm their information on an annual basis? Should an ELD provider’s ELD be removed from the FMCSA list if it fails to confirm or update its listing on an annual basis?

 

  • Providers must respond to the Agency’s written notice of required corrective action within 30 days to remain on the list. Additionally, the provider is given 60 days after the Agency provides a written modification to the notice of proposed removal or notice to affirm the proposed removal. Should FMCSA consider decreasing the 60-day period to 30 days, in order to more timely remove an ELD listing found with non-compliance issues that could adversely impact highway safety?

 

  • Should FMCSA consider any other factors related to a carrier’s continued use of a device that has been removed from the FMCSA list due to a provider’s status (out of business or failure to file an annual registration update)?

 

ELD Technical Specifications

FMCSA is requesting information on the impact of including the following data elements in every message.

  1. Actual odometer
  2. Actual engine hours
  3. Location description
  4. Geo-location
  5. VIN
  6. Power unit
  7. Shipping document number
  8. Trailer number
  9. Driver
  10. Co-driver if there was one
  11. Which driver was driving at the time if there was a co-driver

 

There is also the question about the frequency of intermediate recordings whether they should be more frequent like the quarter hour, half-hour, three-quarter hour, and hour to more efficiently monitor a vehicle over the course of a driver’s cycle.

This question could ease the industry’s administrative struggle. It says that FMCSA should consider allowing a driver to change his or her ELD configuration to exempt status to help reduce the administrative burden noted by the industry.

 

ELD Malfunctions

Currently, drivers are required to document their RODS to switch to paper logs when an ELD malfunctions. The drivers are also required to follow the motor carrier and ELD provider recommendations when a data diagnostic event is logged. Whenever an ELD fails to record a driver’s hours, enforcement personnel must be able to review the driver’s paper logs. In contrast, when an ELD device malfunctions, but continues to record the driver’s hours accurately, the driver should not switch to paper logs. FMCSA is asking for more clarification surrounding this topic as it can be very confusing.

 

ELDs and Pre-2000 Engines

Many vehicles with pre-2000 engines and most vehicles with rebuilt pre-2000 engines have engine control modules (ECMs) installed that could accommodate an ELD. FMCA is asking if FMCSA should re-evaluate or modify the applicability of the current ELD regulation for re-built or re-manufactured  pre-2000 engines.

See the full proposed rule from the FMCSA here.

 

Big change is coming

If these proposed rules are implemented, it will be a massive change for the industry, especially the proposed rule regarding ELD certification. Applying a stringent ELD certification process like Canada could avoid potential violations of ELD compliance and ELD replacement.

Astreon has a partnership with fully certified ELD service providers in Canada and the USA, such as Apollo ELD, brought to you by Astreon. They are an industry-leading ELD provider that is driver-friendly and well recognized in the USA and Canada.  They have also already gone through stringent certification in Canada, and are well prepared if this becomes necessary in the USA.

In addition to certification, leverage our ELD solutions to provide continuity and risk mitigation for your business with HOS, IFTA reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, Engine Diagnostics, and many more powerful features.

Visit our ELD page to learn more.

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
Email: sales@astreon.com

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Make the transition to automated digital processes with our new app, Driveroo

Posted on by Yumi

Are you tired of looking through stacks of paper on your desk to find a work order?  Are you a Fleet Manager working to analyze data based on paper processes and fighting to find improvements in your business?  Are you fighting to get field workers to fill out accurate pre and post trip vehicles inspections?

Paper based and manual processes create massive issues in any business. From lost forms, to non-compliance, to driving operating costs up, this just doesn’t work in today’s competitive landscape.

For repair technicians, repairs based on paper inspections is outdated and inaccurate.

Fleet Managers need access to reliable information to aid in making the best decisions for your Fleet.  Fleet metrics provided by a fully integrated Fleet Management solution is what you need.

 

Driveroo: A new mobile and cloud-based fleet operation management solution

Astreon is excited to introduce Driveroo, a Digital inspection application with built in workflows to automate and streamline business processes.  A proper solution to solve the manual process and paperwork headaches many businesses still suffer from.

 

Inspection management

Driverooo takes your business to the next level with streamlined digital workflows that improve efficiency and productivity, while providing immediate visibility to the condition of your assets.

The Driveroo app has many features that save time and money in the inspection and repair process, including text-to-speech functionality and electronic reports that streamline the inspection process. Driveroo provides the tools to present a clearer picture to clients, which helps to ensure that preventative maintenance does not lapse, leading to major repairs and/or catastrophic failures down the line.

In addition, the Driveroo app allows repair technicians to scan the VIN information instead of typing it in manually. Graphic icons of damaged parts can be used to help clients understand areas in need of repair. By visualizing every problem, you and your clients can see where the issues are and what needs to be fixed quickly.

 

Driveroo App Features at a Glance:

driveroo fleet tracking

  • Instant VIN scanner
  • VIN-based Inspection and financial transaction history
  • Speech-to-text customer contact
  • Email quotes to customers with photos
  • Automotive icons to streamline inspections
  • Turbographics to help customers quickly understand repair issues
  • Universal Mobile Receipt, (Communicate with customers through text, email, phone)
  • Customers receive an interactive repair report
  • Unlimited tracking of vehicles (subscription service)
  • Unlimited statistics (subscription service)

 

Other asset-specific inspections with Driveroo

Driveroo enables you to inspect other types of assets and fleets.

  • OSHA Compliant Forklift Inspection
    • Empower your operations to complete fast forklift inspections
  • DOT eDVIR Inspection
    • Streamline your inspection process to ensure DOT compliance
  • School Bus Pre-Trip Inspection
    • Ensure your school bus fleet is well-maintained, safe, and always ready for action
  • Vehicle Condition Report
    • Inspire customer confidence with detailed pre-purchase inspection reports.

 

Fleet and Asset Management

Driveroo can turn any paper form into a fast, mistake-free automated process to boost operations and lower costs. Driveroo enables you to customize exact visual representations of your vehicles, and tailors every workflow to fit your unique process with as many or as few steps that you need. It’s the easiest way to get the exact solution for your fleets.

 

Driveroo Astreon Bundled Features

eDVIR: Verified Inspections

Streamline the vehicle inspection process and ensure legal compliance. The intelligent mobile app empowers drivers to complete inspections without the paperwork – all in a few quick and easy steps.

 

Scheduled Maintenance

Design preventative maintenance schedules based on vehicle mileage or vehicle inspection data. Set up custom vehicle maintenance reminders for managers, drivers and everyone in your team.

 

Proactive Driver Management

Empower your drivers and operators with a powerful, visual mobile app that’s easy to adopt and simple to use. Zip through reports, and put everything they need on their smartphone. Receive notifications of missed or incomplete tasks.

 

Geofencing

View the real-time location of your vehicles. Get alerts when drivers stray outside designated zones, or when vehicles leave a specified location without a completed vehicle inspection.

 

Document Management

Ensure that all licensing and registration documentation stays up-to-date. Securely store and manage any records online, and assign individual access rights to drivers, managers and other members of your team.

 

Asset Assignment

Assign vehicles or equipment to your team members and manage assignments in real time. Search by operator or by asset to access scheduled assignments. Quickly add, edit or move assignments and send automatic notifications to drivers and operators.

 

Safety and Incident Reporting

Quickly guide your operators through every step of important checks and reports. Driveroo Fleet is easy to adapt to your specific needs to make sure all checks are complete and all the necessary information is captured for reporting purposes.

 

Custom Fleet Dashboards

Analyze data and design easy-to-read custom reports to gain a deeper insight into your business operations. Make decisions driven by reliable data collection and thorough analysis of cost and efficiency.

 

Transform your business to digital workflow today

Driveroo top banner

Our mobile and cloud-based fleet operation management solution, Driveroo, enables your business to transform digital streamlining, including saving time and lowering operational costs.

Experience Driveroo at Astreon today to learn more and contact us to see it in action!

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
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4 Key FMCSA Changes fleets should know in 2022

Posted on by Yumi

Since the Electronic logging device (ELD) mandate officially went into effect, various rule updates, rule changes, notices and proposed changes have taken place (as the ELD mandate continues to evolve). These notices are published on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, which in turn is linked to the Federal Register website.

There are 4 noteworthy changes that took place this year (so far) that motor carriers should be aware of:

 

1.    Eliminating the annual list of violations

Per this change, carriers no longer need to request an annual record of violations from their drivers. Section 391.27 were removed from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on May 9, 2022.

Since carriers request an annual motor vehicle record (MVR), asking drivers for a list of the same violations was redundant.

It’s important to note however that annual violation lists created through May 8, 2022 must be retained in the DQ file (driver qualification) for at least 3 years (meaning potentially as far out as May 8, 2025).

 

2.    Removing personal information from the road test certificate

Some notable changes were made to the format of the road test certificate (a form that is kept in the DQ file per §391.31).

This change removes personal identifiable information (PII) which most people are understandably uncomfortable providing.

The following information is no longer required, effective March 22, 2022:

  • Driver’s license number
  • Licensing state
  • Social Security Number

 

For those that have already purchased older road test certificates, you can simply leave those fields empty as they are no longer required.

It is important to note that per §391.21, PII (date of birth, social security number, driver’s license number, etc.) still remains on the driver-specific application.

 

3.    Licensing Authorities – wording changes

Effective March 22, 2022, the FMCSA changed wording which concerns driver licence issuing entities. “State” was replaced with “driver’s licensing authority”, which provides clarification that to obtain a driver’s MVR, motor carriers would contact states, provinces and territories to satisfy §391.23 and §391.25. This also impact §391.21(b)(5).

This clarification is particularly important for drivers in Canada or Mexico who operate in the U.S.

 

4.    Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule (as of Feb 7, 2022)

As of February 7, 2022, entry-level driver training (ELDT) regulations have stricter requirements for individuals who want to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL), upgrade a CDL, or obtain a hazardous materials (H), passenger (P), or school bus (S) endorsement.

 

“These individuals are subject to the ELDT requirements and must complete a prescribed program of instruction provided by an entity that is listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).” – Federal Register / Vol. 87.

 

Stay up to date on regulatory changes

The FMCSA announces updated notices, rules and proposed rules/rule changes regularly. The ELD mandate rules can be particularly complicated and/or confusing in some instanced for carriers and drivers alike, so it is very important to check regularly and familiarize yourself with changes/potential changes to prevent possible violation or non-compliance.

 

Keep in mind that these changes can also help your drivers by either simplifying their work, removing redundancy or providing greater clarity so they can stay focused on what they do best, safely and effectively, without worrying about potential violations.

You can check for changes or updates via the notices and rulemaking documents page on the FMCSA website.

 

Astreon’s ELD – ELD built for Drivers and Carriers alike

Astreon has partnerships with fully certified leading ELD service providers in Canada and the USA, such as Apollo ELD, brought to you by Astreon. These are industry-leading ELD products that are driver-friendly, easy to use, feature-rich, and well recognized in North America.

In addition to certification, leverage our ELD solutions to provide continuity and risk mitigation for your business with HOS, IFTA reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, Engine Diagnostics, and many more powerful tools & features.

Visit our ELD pages to learn more.

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
Email: sales@astreon.com

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2022 Truck Trends

Posted on by Yumi

2021-2022 are transformative years for the truck industry and have been keeping people in the truck industry busy. This transformation affects operations, expenses, and administration. With ELD compliance, Electrification to ease climate change, driver shortages, rising fuel costs, and trucker convoys for COVID-19 restrictions, it’s been a busy couple of years.

This article digs a bit deeper into ELD mandates and tighter truck emission regulations in Canada and the USA, and how this affects the transportation industry.

ELD Compliance

ELD(Electronic Logging Devices) mandate went into effect in December 2017 in the USA and will be fully mandated in January 2023 in Canada(Find the Canadian ELD mandate schedule).

Electronic logging devices (ELD) are used to electronically keep a driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS) and all drivers are required to use an ELD to document their compliance with HOS rules.

In Canada, the full ELD mandate will go into effect on January 2023 and this deadline extension will ensure that carriers can have sufficient time to purchase, install ELDs and educate drivers to comply with the ELD mandate rules. However, the reality is you need to get started preparing as soon as possible. Here is why you should start preparing today for the ELD mandate:  https://www.astreon.com/full-eld-enforcement-delayed/

 

Electrification

The electrification of heavy commercial vehicles is making a splash right now. According to Natural Resources Canada, “Transportation accounts for approximately 25% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions(GHG), of which almost half comes from passenger cars and light trucks.”.

The electrification movement is accelerating in North America.

“Roughly half of all U.S. and Canadian Class 8 tractors engaged in regional-haul applications could switch to battery-electric technology today with minimal or no impact on operations, productivity, or efficiency, according to a new report.” – HDT

For more information about the reaction from countries and how we can help customers reduce their environmental impact and comply with emission regulations: https://www.astreon.com/a-greener-solution/

 

Driver Shortages

As the demand in the supply chain industry is increasing, North America is facing a serious shortage of truck drivers. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), the shortage of truck drivers was 60,800 and is estimated to reach 160,000 by 2028 in U.S. Whereas, Canada is expected to be short 25,000 truck drivers by 2023 according to a study from Trucking HR Canada.

truck driver shortage

 

The stressful environment caused by COVID-19 is further accelerating the shortage of truck drivers and exacerbating disruptions in the supply chain.

Find out how to ease driver shortages with telematics:  https://www.astreon.com/telematics-can-improve-drivers-safety-and-retention-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/

Sky High Fuel Costs

Rising fuel costs are pressuring trucking companies. Many companies are struggling with minimizing the impact of fuel costs to their clients, but there is a limit.

In order to combat the impact of rising fuel costs, it is critical to have insightful data about your fleet operations to analyze and drive effective improvements into your business. To get this insightful data, you need a leading GPS Tracking solution in your fleet to better understand how much gasoline or diesel is consumed by your fleet each month and year. A GPS Fleet Management system is also important to help analyze data and receive powerful automated reports to identify where you can drive additional efficiencies and savings.

For detailed tips to combat the effects of rising fuel costs, read this article.

 

Astreon Can Help

Astreon offers the most Comprehensive & Advanced Fleet Management platform available for your Vehicles, Trailers, Machinery, and Equipment, with over 3.3 million+ tracked assets globally. Our software is easy to use, fully customizable, and provides advanced industry-leading features. With our Fleet Management platform, you can visualize all of your fleet assets on one screen in a simple to operate, powerful application. Fuel Management with Astreon is the complete solution for optimizing fuel expenditure and ultimately saving your company time and money. For more information about our fuel control, click here.

Contact us today!

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Full ELD enforcement delayed until Jan 1, 2023

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The June 2022 deadline for ELD compliance in Canada has been pushed back to January 1st, 2023.

CCMTA (Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators) announced the full ELD enforcement extension on March 7, 2022.

The ELD mandate enforcement was originally scheduled for June 12, 2021, however, the enforcement was delayed by a year due to the unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and other challenges related to certification.

With this current extension, the CCMTA decided to extend full ELD enforcement due to the small number of certified ELD providers.  At the time of writing this article, there are 14 out of approximately 700 ELD providers certified on the Transport Canada website.

“Jurisdictions have been monitoring progress and determined that an extension of the transition period is required. This will allow sufficient time for the industry to purchase and install certified ELD devices, and conduct training to be compliant. Based on these factors, jurisdictions will continue to support the mandate through a period of education and awareness through to January 1, 2023.” – Announcement by CCMTA.

This extension will ensure that carriers can have sufficient time to purchase, install ELDs and educate drivers to comply with the ELD mandate rules.

 

What should carriers do during this period?

While we hope that the delay in full enforcement would allow carriers to have sufficient time to prepare for the ELD mandate, the fact is you need to get started as soon as possible.

ELD price increases are expected due to the shortage of certified ELDs providers in Canada, and ongoing supply chain shortages, causing device costs to go up. The following factors pressure ELD providers and end up causing price increases.

 

Lengthy process of ELD registration & Certification

Unlike the USA, Canada takes a more systematic approach to ELD certification. In Canada, ELDs can only be third-party certified and can not be self-certified. In the process, 3 independent certifying bodies work with manufacturers to test and approve their devices. See the image of the process with duration figures.  It can take up to 1 year to get an ELD solution approved.

Certification costs

According to trucknews.com, ELD providers can submit only three models at a time, the certification fee is approximately $50,000 USD per device. This only includes 1 mobile OS (like Android or iOS). If an ELD provider wants to get both mobile operating systems approved for each device, then the cost doubles. Each year, 25% of the ELDs will have to be retested for which ELD providers will have to pay $12,000 to $25,000 per device model.

 

An answer to the question: What should carriers do during this period?

Get ready for ELD Compliance as soon as possible

Looking at the cost and the lengthy process, you can clearly see why so few providers are certified today, almost 1 year after the mandate has been implemented.

That being said, most or all ELD providers are expected to raise their rates by up to 40%. Essentially these high costs of certification and upkeep are being passed on to the consumer. If you already have an ELD today, there is a good chance it won’t get certified in Canada. If it does, expect a cost increase of your services along with it.

 

Astreon certified ELDs

Astreon has partnerships with fully certified ELD service providers in Canada and the USA, such as Apollo ELD (outlined in the link above), brought to you by Astreon, as well as Vistracks (in partnership with Omnitracs). These are industry-leading ELD products that are driver-friendly and well recognized in the USA and Canada.

In addition to certification, leverage our ELD solutions to provide continuity and risk mitigation for your business with HOS, IFTA reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, Engine Diagnostics, and many more powerful features.

Visit our ELD pages to learn more.

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
Email: sales@astreon.com

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Apollo ELD is ranked in the TOP 3 for Electronic Logging Devices

Posted on by admin

One of the buzzwords in the commercial transport industry since last year is surely the ELD (Electronic Logging Device). It’s been in effect in the U.S. since 2017 and 2021 in Canada.  In Canada, ELD will be the topic of discussion frequently this year because the penalties for non-compliance will be enforced on June 12, 2022, and very few companies are certified by Transport Canada as of the time of publishing this article.

ELDs are ECU-connected devices combined with Android or iOS Phones, Tablets, or other hardware logging screens used in the commercial transport industry which provides an accurate and simple means of keeping HOS records.  For professional drivers and fleet operators, this is required by law.

 

Apollo ELD: TOP 3 Electronic Logging Device

Apollo ELD device and app

Apollo ELD provided by our partner Assured Techmatics, was selected TOP 3 Electronic Logging Devices by Verified Market Research.

Assured Techmatics was founded in 2004 and is based in Florida, United States. Its purpose is to develop a location-based solution to improve drivers’ travel experience. It has come a long way since the track and trace days. It has achieved unbelievable success with its ELD solution since it was launched back in 2016. Its flagship product apollo ELD is the powerful bundle of reliable hardware, state-of-the-art software and an ongoing commitment to support its customers and increase its satisfaction with the service it provides. – Verified Market Research

Apollo ELD is the second ELD provider listed by FMCSA and is now certified in Canada. With the ease of use and advanced features support of numerous ELD devices, DVIR, IFTA, and dispatch integration, Apollo ELD has been awarded TOP 3 ELDs.

 

What’s unique about Apollo ELD?

Apollo ELD is a certified and ELD-compliant product that fully conforms to both ELD and AOBRD standards. While being comprehensive, apollo ELD is developed with drivers in mind and thus is quite easy to use. In addition to an app for the driver, there is a feature-rich portal for use by the back-office personnel. Remote drivers and office staff are always in sync with key information, critical to operations, is available to all.

 

Integration with Dispatch

Another unique feature of apollo ELD is the integration with dispatch. Drivers or back-office personnel can initiate a dispatch, i.e., pickup or delivery, and can update information as required including ETA. Shippers or receivers can log into the portal and know where the truck is and note current ETA information. This significantly reduces the need to buy a separate Transportation Management System and manage additional products which are probably not integrated with ELD. Apollo ELD is integrated with dispatch and information such as remaining driving time flows seamlessly into dispatch decision-making to better schedule drivers and maximize dispatch effectiveness and efficiency.

 

Key features of Apollo ELDapollo desktop_mobile_tablet

  • Extremely easy to use and navigate
  • Fully ELD compliant in the United States and Canada and supports Mexican rules
  • Integrated with multiple hardware device types
  • Supports IFTA
  • Supports key intrastate driving rules
  • Available in English, Spanish, Canadian French
  • Integrated with dispatch
  • Supports Android and iOS devices

 

Applicable for diverse industries

  • Commercial fleet
    • In 2019, the commercial vehicle market stood at 13.8 million vehicles, 30% of which being GVW 8 general freight, rental/leasing services trucks. apollo ELD proved to be reliable for the commercial fleets which are the major market.

 

  • Public Transportation
    • As of December 2017, Precious Cargo has installed Electronic Logging Devices on all motor coaches and school buses in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Part 395, 49 CFR 395.8(a). The ELD Rule is the latest safety initiative that was enacted by the FMCSA on December 15, 2015. apollo ELD is fully compliant with this rule and provides services to the bus operators.

 

  • Logistics & Supply Chain
    • During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 logistics and supply chain vehicles were essential in delivering vital supplies to the national supermarket chains and companies. Apollo ELD provides service to big food supply chains.

 

Get ready for ELD compliance with us and replace your current ELD!

If you are not compliant yet or you are looking for extensively advanced features, you can easily migrate your ELD providers to apollo ELD without buying new hardware. For more details about Apollo ELD, visit our Apollo ELD page.

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Summary of 2021 – What has changed in fleets and what change will we expect in 2022?

Posted on by admin

This year has a log of changes in the world, especially regulations. In addition to Covid-19 regulations, there are many regulations we have to comply with. The term “changes” also applies to fleet and technology industries this year. In this article, we review critical changes that happened this year to those industries and how these changes will impact your business from next year.

Canada ELD Mandate

apollo eld banner

2021 is a big year for the Canadian ELD market. This year is the first year of enforcement of ELD regulation in Canada. The Canada ELD (Electronic Logging Devices) Mandate went into effect June 12th, 2021 with a “progressive” enforcement period due to the unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the complexity of obtaining certification in Canada.

With this measurement, the ELD implementation delay has been put on hold until June 12th, 2022 to elevate education and awareness of the implementation of ELD.

We’ve posted an ultimate ELD guide and regulation changes this year. Read full articles and comprehend how ELD regulation works and which ELD service providers you should choose.

 

  • Other related articles

Canada ELD Mandate Update: No ELD penalties until June 2022 – CCMTA

The ultimate guide to the ELD Mandate and how to choose the best ELD

 

Sustainability

electric vehicle charging station

Global warming is becoming a serious issue all over the world and there is no surprise that the fleet industry contributes to this situation. With this fact, efforts to boost sustainability in the transportation sector are increasing, as customers become more likely to weigh the environmental impacts of their purchases and government across the globe draw up more stringent regulations. In addition, the U.S administration had ordered federal agencies to develop tighter fuel efficiency, greenhouse gas, and oxides of nitrogen emissions standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks in 2021.

More stringent regulations are expected to come next year in the world. Be prepared for any regulation impacting the fleet industry. It’s for sure that the truck industry will need to take the next leap in sustainability no later than 2030 because most countries set vehicle electrification targets by 2030. You can find the Vehicle electrification goals by country in the report from icct.

For emission regulations for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, read our blogs and be prepared for the changes:

How you can save money during the oil and diesel price surge

Biden Proposed Tighter Truck Emission Regulations

Truck industry embracing change due to the emission regulations and high demand for electric trucks

 

Smart Technology

smart technology

Connectivity and data management are now set to unleash the next renovation in the history of farming: Smart Farming / Precision agriculture. It enables farmers to collect vast quantities of data and control different equipment or monitor individual animals. Now, farmers are starting to adopt digital technology and data-driven innovations. See how Smart Farming can solve agricultural operational problems.

Smart Technology – Transformation in the Agriculture industry

 

What do 2022 and the future in the fleet industry look like?

Canada ELD regulation will be fully compliant

All Canadian trucking companies (there are some exemptions from the Canadian ELD mandate) must prepare for the ELD mandate by June 12th, 2022. Violating the regulation could charge you a fine or receive formal warnings. Being compliant doesn’t sound only complicated, but is also beneficial for your fleet operation financially and productively. Leveraging ELD brings many benefits, like more efficient route management, vehicle diagnostics, and minimizing administrative difficulties. Find more ELD benefits on our ELD page.

Our certified ELD providers:

Apollo ELD: https://www.lvmtrack.com/eld-compliance-apollo/

VisTracks: https://www.lvmtrack.com/eld-compliance-vistracks/

 

One in two vehicles sold is an electric vehicle

In the Executive Order by U.S. President Joe Biden, he states that “America must lead the world on clean and efficient cars and trucks. That means bolstering our domestic market by setting a goal that 50 percent of all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in 2030 be zero-emission vehicles, including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid electric, or fuel cell electric vehicles.”.

In 2021, we saw self-driving cars becoming more prevalent as well as carpooling services becoming increasingly popular with people who have car ownership but do not drive often enough to warrant owning a car themselves. Also, major auto manufacturers like Tesla, Volvo, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz manufacture EVs to meet the demand from consumers, contributing to a dramatic reduction in CO2 emissions. As an example, Volvo is committed to producing purely EV’s by 2030.

Not next year, but 2030 would be a milestone in the history of an electric vehicle.

To learn more about electric vehicles, check our blogs.

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The ultimate guide to the ELD Mandate and how to choose the best ELD

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If you are based in North America and in the commercial transport industry, you’ve already heard about the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate. It’s been in effect in the U.S. since 2017 and Canada in 2021. For Canada, penalty enforcement will be exempted until June 12, 2022.  This is to provide education and awareness to carriers and drivers alike.  The other reason for the delay in enforcement is related to the unprecedented challenge ELD providers have getting their solutions and hardware certified by Transport Canada-approved third-party certification bodies.

If you have not implemented a Canadian compliant solution yet (there are not many that are certified at the time of writing this article), it’s important to fully understand the ELD Market, which is certified in Canada and the US, to help you make an educated decision on which solution to leverage for your business.

In this article, we explain the size of the ELD market, the process of how ELD service providers get accredited, and what you should look for in an ELD before making a purchase.

Global Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) Market Outlook

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Market was valued at USD 13.1 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 17.839 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 3.94% from 2021 to 2028 according to the report from Verified market research.

 

Electronic-Logging-Device-Market-Size-And-Forecast

The global ELD market is influenced by the development of advanced telematics and fleet management solutions, and increasing investment by carriers in the driver safety system.

Future growth is attributed to stringent government regulations to improve road safety and address road accident concerns by implementing an ELD rule in North America and European countries. The ELD mandate rule came into effect in December 2017 in the US and 2021 in Canada, while Europe made digital tachographs mandatory for commercial vehicles with GVWR of more than 3.5 tons since 2006.

 

 

eld market size by component

Source: https://www.fierceelectronics.com/components/what-electronic-logging-device-market-worth

 

Due to the increased demands of digitalization and the use of telematics technology to improve road safety, operation costs, and stay compliant with government regulations, ELD growth is expected to increase by about 4% per year between now and 2028.

 

ELD Mandate in the USA and Canada

Only 7% of ELD providers will end up being certified by Transport Canada.

The process of ELD certification and regulations are different in each country. It’s important to understand how various ELD verification and regulations between U.S. and Canada differ, as it’s not as simple as just registering an ELD product as certified. ELD manufacturers have to go through stringent certification processes.  Let’s dig in to discover why we believe only 7% of ELD providers will gain Canadian certification.

 

USA

In the U.S., the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) maintains a list of approved products. The FMCSA requires ELD manufacturers to register their own ELD devices, and ELD manufacturers must certify that they have tested their device and that it meets all technical specifications detailed in the ELD Rule.  Assuming the ELD provider has built their app, along with a compatible ELD device, they can simply claim that it is fully compliant when they register the service.

The following are checklists that ELD manufacturers must verify;

  • Meet extensive technical specifications
  • Self-certify their ELD as compliant
  • Register their ELD with the FMCSA

See the listed ELD devices and self-certified by the manufacturer.

There are 727 providers and devices registered with the FMCSA today.  The FMCSA will remove an ELD from the listing if the ELD doesn’t meet the technical specifications, which helps carriers avoid purchasing non-compliant ELDs.

 

Canada

In Canada, Transport Canada approves devices, service providers, and mobile OS. The Canadian ELD Mandate came into effect on June 12, 2021, but with a “progressive” enforcement period.

Jurisdictions confirmed that they would delay implementing penalties until June 12, 2022, to elevate education and awareness of the implementation of ELD, considering the unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the complexity of obtaining certification in Canada. Read the Full Article about the Canada ELD Mandate Update.

In Canada, ELDs can only be third-party certified and they cannot be self-certified like the U.S.

In order to become a certified ELD service provider there are 2 steps, and two institutions are involved.

Firstly, they need to apply and meet the Technical standard for Electronic Logging Devices published by the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA).

Once the application review and assessment are completed, the Standards Council of Canada will provide the certification body with an Accreditation Report which will be required to apply for an application to Transport Canada. This process will take 7 to 9 months to complete the accreditation.

Next, accredited ELD manufacturers need to send a completed application form and the standards Council Canada Accreditation Report. It takes up to six weeks to complete the certification.

In addition to this, it takes a minimum of 30 days for an accredited certification body to approve an ELD provider.  Currently, there are only 3 approved accrediting bodies today.  Each of them can only approve 1-3 ELD providers per month.  At the time of writing this article, there are only 6 Transport Canada approved ELD service providers since June 2021.

If you do the math, by next June when enforcement and fines will start taking place, of the 727 FMCSA approved ELD providers, a maximum of 78 providers will gain certification in Canada.  A more realistic number is approximately 30-40 providers.

 

Certification Costs

According to trucknews.com, ELD providers can submit only three models at a time, the certification fee is approximately $50,000 USD per device.  This only includes 1 mobile OS (like Android or iOS). If an ELD provider wants to get both mobile operating systems approved for each device, then the cost doubles. Each year, 25% of the ELDs will have to be retested for which ELD providers will have to pay $12,000 to $25,000 per device model.

Looking at the cost, the lengthy process, and lack of accreditation resources to certify providers, you can clearly see why so few providers are certified today, 4 months after the mandate has been implemented.

On top of this, most or all ELD providers are expected to raise their rates by up to 40%.  Essentially these high costs of certification and upkeep are being passed on to the consumer.  If you already have an ELD today, there is a good chance it won’t get certified in Canada. If it does, expect a cost increase of your services along with it.

 

How to choose the best ELD wisely

If you are in the commercial transport industry in Canada, you need to prepare now. According to trucknews, federally regulated trucks that lack certified electronic logging devices (ELDs) could receive formal warnings as early as this December (if they travel through Alberta or Manitoba). The penalties for non-compliance will be enforced on June 12, 2022. You need to choose the best ELD for your company, however, picking an ELD provider is not easy. There are many options out there and it is difficult to filter which one is actually certified in your country.

Here is a checklist to help you out when choosing the best ELD solution provider.

  1. Check if an ELD is certified

Before you type “ELD in (your country/city)” or “best ELD” in the search bar, the first thing you need to do is visit Transport Canada’s official website to see the list of registered ELDs. This is a critical step so don’t skip this part.

  1. Background check your ELD provider
    1. Years of business
    2. Company location (local or not)
    3. of clients and their references
    4. of employees
    5. of partnerships

Make sure the ELD meets your requirements as well as your local regulations.

 

Astreon’s certified ELDs

Astreon has a partnership with certified ELD manufacturers like Apollo and Vistracks. They are compliant, certified, and driver-friendly ELD solutions in USA and Canada. Provide continuity and risk mitigation for your business with HOS, IFTA reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, Engine Diagnostics, and more features.

Check our ELD pages to learn more.

Contact us today!

Tel: +1 (888) 647-4730
Email: sales@astreon.com

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Canada ELD Mandate Update: No ELD penalties until June 2022 – CCMTA

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The Canada ELD (Electronic Logging Devices) Mandate will go into effect this week, June 12 but with a “progressive enforcement period. Jurisdictions confirmed that they would delay implementing penalties until next year, June 12, 2022 to elevate education and awareness of the implementation of ELD considering the unprecedented challenges caused by COVID-19 pandemic.

The Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators said in a statement that “Jurisdictions plan to support the mandate through a period of progressive enforcement without penalties, including elevated education and awareness, until June 12, 2022.” This period will give industry sufficient time to install certified ELD(Electronic Logging Devices) without penalty until June 12, 2022. However, early implementation measures will be benefits for you to educate your drivers and increase compliance awareness.

However, province and territorial are still responsible for the enforcement, so it is advised that you are aware of provincial or territorial regulations and requirements.

Jurisdictional website or contacts by province are following;

Procuring ELD

Any ELDs you use must be certified devices approved by Transport Canada. Unlike the U.S., Canadian regulations require third-party testing and certification of all ELDs to ensure they comply with federal rules regarding the use of the devices. Approved devices can be found here: https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/electronic-logging-devices.

 

Astreon

Astreon ELD is a fully certified ELD solution by federal and state regulations as well as Canadian and Mexican regulations. Our solution enables carriers to be fully compliant with the mandate while staying adaptable with client needs and requests. This is the easy-to-use, fully functional ELD solution for your business.

For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Are you ready for the Canadian ELD mandate?

For more information about ELD, visit our ELD page.

Contact us today for more information, pricing, and specific case studies.

Tel: +1 (800) 647-4730

Email: sales@astreon.com

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