FMCSA provides answers on the ELD Mandate

Ms. La Tonya Mimms, Lead transportation specialist for the FMCSA Enforcement Division and Program manager for the FMCSA electronic logging device implementation, exceptionally travelled to Canada to answer questions about the ELD Mandate during ISAAC’s User Conference.

Three phases of implementation

We are currently in the first phase of implementation which aims to raise the awareness of carriers with trucks crossing the borders to the USA.

In a few days will begin the second phase where conformity with ELD regulations will be mandatory to avoid committing an infraction.

Heavy vehicles operating within US borders will have to use an electronic logbook, either an ELD or AOBRD. An AOBRD installed before December 18, 2017, can still be used and also be transferred to replacement vehicles within a same fleet until December 16, 2019. This second phase aims to make transition gradual but efficient. Exemptions will be allowed however:

• 100 air-mile radius drivers may continue to use timecards, as allowed by article §395.1(e)(1).

• 150 air-mile radius non-CDL freight drivers may continue to use timecards, as allowed by article 395.1(e)(2).

• Using paper RODS for not more than 8 days during any 30-day period.

• Conducting “drive away – tow away” operations.

• Driving vehicles manufactured before model year 2000.

Finally, at the start of the third phase on December 16, 2019, the use of ELDs will be mandatory.

Transferring data in ELD mode

During a roadside check, your ELD must allow for electronic data transfer by either of two options. The first option is to transfer data via email or through a web service. This method is the one chosen by ISAAC for its simplicity and to avoid using additional equipment.

The second option calls for a local transmission mode, where the ELD transfers data to a USB key or using Bluetooth® connectivity.

Data transfer is top priority for the FMCSA. If data transfer is not possible for any given reason, the safety official could request to view information on the tablet.