With this year’s electronic logging devices mandate looming, it’s important for fleets to understand how it will affect them, and how to implement the new standards.
This goes beyond choosing eligible devices and software to track, manage and share data. Fleets also need to consider how to secure those devices inside a vehicle.
Good in-vehicle docking and mounting solutions for devices protect the fleet’s investment in equipment, ensure driver safety and comfort, reduce distraction and increase productivity.
The ELD mandate might seem confusing and the December 18 deadline might be overwhelming. But try to think of it as an opportunity to do better, through a total mobility solution.
A total mobility solution ensures a safe, comfortable and efficient mobile office for any fleet, and has several key components including software, hardware, connectivity and integration, docking and mounting, and professional installation. There are numerous options available to fleet managers within each component, and each should be evaluated for their function and reliability in the field, and overall value.
Software
Hardware
Hardware is the key to operating software, and is therefore essential to a mobility solution. Fleet managers need to consider the environment within which the hardware will operate – whether ultra-rugged, non-rugged or somewhere in between – to develop a solution to fit the needs of their fleet.
As for the actual electronic logging device (ELD), remember that it is not the same as an automatic onboard recording device (AOBRD). The technical specifications are different. Manufacturers can notify owners of existing AOBRDs if their devices can be restructured to meet ELD requirements through software updates. These updated devices must be certified and registered by the manufacturers on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) ELD registration page.
An ELD can include portable ELDs and mobile devices – so long as it fully meets the technical specifications, and is certified and registered. FMCSA’s registration page provides specific instructions and an interactive form to register ELDs.
Connectivity & Integration
Docking & Mounting
When considering a successful mobile solution, the rule is safety first.
Improperly secured hardware and equipment can become hazardous projectiles during an accident or even a sudden stop. Quality docking solutions keep hardware in place, ensuring both safety and functionality.
Fleet managers should also keep in mind a driver’s or passenger’s ability to see, operate and maneuver a device, as well as its connected peripherals: printers, keyboards, scanners and antennas. Successful mounting solutions organize in-vehicle equipment and conserve space for maximum usability, comfort and productivity.
Professional Installation
To ensure an effective mobile solution, fleet managers should seek installation professionals who are familiar with the system’s docking, mounting and connectivity. Manufacturer sales representatives are another resource for making sure products are compatible and effective.
As an expert in in-vehicle docking and mounting, Havis has put together some considerations for choosing the right docking and mounting solution for computing devices inside any work truck or fleet vehicle.
To learn more about ways you can face the ELD mandate, download our new white paper, The Impact of ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Mandate on A Total Mobility Solution.
And be sure to visit our website to learn more about our mobile docking solutions.
