5 ELDs That We Love
Back in December 2015, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) implementation law. This law clearly states that starting on December 17, 2019, trucks manufactured from 2000 covering interstate routes will need to fully comply with ELD mandate, that is, using an FMCSA certified device that safely stores Hour Of Service (HOS) logs.
The ELD mandate has many implications. This article will focus on just one aspect (and probably the aspect that worries truckers the most). Which ELD device should you buy to comply with the Federal law? Here are our top five recommendations:
1. KeepTruckin ELD
KeepTruckin ELD shows at the top of our list for a good reason. This incredible device combines a sleek and easy to use iOS/Android app, hassle-free installation, advanced features, and complete FMCSA compliance at an unbeatable price point. If you are looking for a reliable solution for your light, medium, or heavy-duty truck at an affordable price then look no further, KeepTruckin ELD is what you need.
Features at a Glance
Basic features (requires Starter plan): Electronic logging, vehicle inspections, messaging, ELD compliance, GPS tracking, alerts.
Extra features (requires Plus plan): IFTAfuel tax reporting, asset tracking, vehicle utilization, DOT inspection mode, engine diagnostics, fuel monitoring, geofencing, and tampering alert system.
Compatibility: Light and medium duty trucks via OBD2, heavy-duty trucks via J1708 6 Pin and J1939 9 Pin socket cables.
Accessories included: 6-pin and 9-pin heavy duty truck cables.
Smartphone/Tablet App: YES, both Android and iOS.
Smartphone/Tablet pairing: USB or Bluetooth.
FMCSA compliant: YES.
ELD Device cost: $150, free when leasing with a multi-year contract.
Monthly cost: $20/month/vehicle (starter plan) up to $30/month/vehicle (Plus plan).
PROS
- Affordable monthly plans.
- Easy installation via hardwired OBD2 connection (light and medium trucks) or with supplied HD cables (heavy duty trucks).
- Free, modern, and intuitive iOS/Android app.
- Awesome 24/7 support.
- Ability to send photos via app.
- Feature-rich device.
CONS
- Subscription is billed annually, that might represent a high upfront cost for small fleets.
- Depending on the fleet size you may need to sign a multi-year contract.
2. Garmin eLog
Garmin is a top brand globally known for its high-quality products, and the eLog is no exception. This robust device complies with ELD law requirements recording the Hours of Service (HOS) the way the FMCSA dictates. Unfortunately, its software is almost limited to that, the basic set of features required by the ELD mandate. However, on the plus side, Garmin eLog does not require a monthly fee, it’s a one-time purchase. This could be the perfect solution if you are not comfortable signing subscription plans and only want an FMCSA certified device.
Features at a Glance
Basic features: ELD compliance (Hours of Service), GPS tracking, fuel tracking.
Extra features: N/A
Compatibility: Direct fit for heavy-duty trucks via J1708 6 Pin or J1939 9 Pin diagnostic connector. Trucks with Volvo engine and 16-pin J162 requires an optional cable. This device is not compatible with OBD2 protocol (SAE J1979) vehicles.
Accessories included: N/A.
Smartphone/Tablet App: YES, both Android and iOS.
Smartphone/Tablet pairing: USB or Bluetooth.
FMCSA compliant: YES.
ELD Device cost: $200.
Monthly cost: N/A
PROS
- No subscription fees, one-time purchase.
- High-quality device.
- Renowned brand.
- Free iOS/Android app.
CONS
- No OBD2 compatibility.
- Basic software, mostly ELD regulation features.
3. Omnitracs Intelligent Vehicle Gateway (IVG) ELD
Omnitracs is a well-known company in the trucking world thanks to the advanced fleet management solutions it has been offering for years. It’s also one of the early adopters of ELD standards, which allowed the company to master the technology before the competition. Proof of that is their IVG, arguably the most advanced ELD device to date. Omnitracs Intelligent Vehicle Gateway (IVG) is a completely autonomous solution (no phone or tablet needed) and on top of that – introduces a handy feature, a hands-free voice control system. One of the most time-consuming aspects of ELD rule is entering all the required information using the virtual keyboard, that’s why the voice commands are so convenient. Other than voice control, the IVG comes loaded with a myriad of advanced features one can expect from a company specialized in fleet management solutions. The Omnitracs IVG is an awesome device and costs more than most of the other ELD units. However, considering that it does not require a smartphone or tablet for its operation, its initial cost of $800 is somewhat reasonable.
Features at a Glance
Basic features: Electronic logging, vehicle inspections, messaging, ELD compliance, GPS tracking, alerts.
Extra features: IFTAfuel tax reporting, hands-free voice commands, vehicle utilization, DOT inspection mode, engine diagnostics, fuel monitoring, geofencing, and tampering alert system.
Compatibility: Almost all heavy-duty models.
Accessories included: N/A
Smartphone/Tablet App: YES, both Android and iOS.
Smartphone/Tablet pairing: USB or Bluetooth.
FMCSA compliant: YES.
ELD Device cost: $800 plus $199 one-time setup fee, leasing plans available with a multi-year contract.
Monthly cost: $30/month/vehicle.
PROS
- Stand-alone ELD unit featuring a 1024×600 LCD touch screen display.
- Hands-free voice commands, no typing needed!
- Easy installation.
- High-quality device.
- Renowned brand.
- Free iOS/Android app for remote operation.
- FMCSA certified.
CONS
- Relatively high upfront cost per vehicle.
4. Gorilla Safety ELD
Gorilla is a relatively new player in the commercial truck industry. Founded in 2013, Gorilla designed the Gorilla Safety ELD, a top-notch device offering much more than simply HOS recording. Think of Gorilla Safety ELD as a solution focused on making fleet management easier. With an upfront cost of $175 and a monthly fee starting on $25, this ELD device is an interesting option.
Features at a Glance
Basic features: Electronic logging, vehicle inspections, ELD compliance, GPS tracking, alerts.
Extra features: IFTAfuel tax reporting, vehicle utilization, DOT inspection mode, fuel monitoring, truck documents expiration alert, geofencing, and tampering alert system.
Compatibility: Almost all heavy-duty models using 6-pin or 9-pin connectors.
Accessories included: N/A
Smartphone/Tablet App: YES, both Android and iOS.
Smartphone/Tablet pairing: USB or Bluetooth.
FMCSA compliant: YES.
ELD Device cost: $175.
Monthly cost: Plans starting at $25/month/vehicle up to $30/month/vehicle.
PROS
- Fully featured ELD device plus fleet management web dashboard.
- Easy installation.
- High-quality device.
- Free iOS/Android app for remote operation.
- FMCSA certified.
CONS
- Does not provide messaging or engine trouble codes information.
5. Stoneridge EZ-ELD
Closing our list is the affordable Stoneridge EZ-ELD. Stoneridge, the company behind the EZ-ELD, has more than sixty years of experience working with commercial fleets around the world. The company’s experience is evident when reviewing the EZ-ELD device and its software. The free iOS/Android app is one of the easiest to use due to its unique “scan and drive” pairing feature. All the driver needs to do when getting into the vehicle is scan a QR code and the device will automatically pair and start recording. Additionally, Stoneridge designed a powerful back-office software that facilitates fleet management. All things considered, this fully featured ELD device was created with both the truck driver and the fleet manager in mind, ending up in an easy to install and easy to use solution. With monthly plans starting at just $15/month and the ELD cost of $150 the Stoneridge EZ-ELD has positioned itself as a very competitive ELD option.
Features at A Glance
Basic features: Electronic logging, vehicle inspections, ELD compliance, GPS tracking, alerts.
Extra features: IFTA, DVIR, and HOS reporting, tampering alert system. Exclusive scan and drive pairing system.
Compatibility: Light and medium duty trucks via OBD2, heavy-duty trucks via J1708 6 Pin and J1939 9 Pin socket cables.
Accessories included: OBD2, 6-Pin, and 9-Pin adapters.
Smartphone/Tablet App: YES, both Android and iOS.
Smartphone/Tablet pairing: USB or Bluetooth.
FMCSA compliant: YES.
ELD Device cost: $150.
Monthly cost: Plans starting at $15/month/vehicle.
PROS
- Fully featured ELD device plus fleet management web dashboard.
- High-quality device.
- Scan and drive pairing.
- Ease of use.
CONS
- The device tends to lose GPS and Bluetooth signal when powering up or shutting down the engine.
The Bottom Line
The full implementation of the ELD mandate is imminent, so most truckers should be already prepared for it. However, in case you aren’t, you still have time to comply with this law. This article reviewed several ELD devices, some are more focused on fleets like the Omnitracs IVG while others like the Garmin eLog could be a good solution for independent truck owners in order to legally drive after December 17, 2019.