As an operator in the trucking industry, having a reliable and compliant Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is crucial for your business. With the ELD mandate in full effect, choosing the right device can streamline your operations, improve safety, and ensure compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
Source: Fleet Equipment
The rules for DVIR are pretty clear, and all commercial carriers must adhere to them. Those rules mean that any vehicle with a GVWR of over 10,000 LBS (4,536 Kilograms) must use an ELD device to track driving hours, duty status, truck mechanical condition, and overall compliance.
We researched and evaluated several ELD devices, and in this article, we’ll explore the top 10 ELD devices for owner-operators in 2024.
1. Matrack ELD
The Matrack ELD is a budget-friendly option that offers a wide range of features tailored for owner-operators. It boasts an intuitive user interface, making it easy for drivers to log their hours of service (HOS) and manage compliance. Additionally, the Matrack ELD provides real-time GPS tracking, allowing you to monitor your fleet’s location and optimize routes for improved efficiency.
Key Features:
- Intuitive tools for fleet managers
- Customizable reports and alerts
- Fuel management and vehicle diagnostics
- IFTA reporting and compliance
- Prices start at $20 per month, depending on the features
2. GPS Trackit ELD
GPS Trackit ELD stands out for its simple fleet installation process, making it a convenient choice for owner-operators. This device can integrate with your current fleet management system, providing data and insights into your operations. GPS Trackit ELD also offers many great reporting capabilities, such as driving time, enabling you to analyze driver performance, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs.
Key Features:
- Easy plug-and-play installation
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics, along with hours of service
- Driver driving time and behavior monitoring
- Customizable service alerts and notifications
3. Gorilla Safety ELD
The Gorilla Safety ELD system is an excellent choice for owner-operators prioritizing document management and compliance. This device allows you to digitize and store important documents, such as bills of lading, proof of delivery, and maintenance records, ensuring easy access and organization. Additionally, Gorilla Safety ELD offers advanced safety features, including real-time driver coaching and incident reporting.
Key Features:
- Robust document management system
- Advanced safety features and driver coaching
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- IFTA reporting and compliance
- Prices range between $20 to $40 per month, depending on the plan
Source: Gorilla Safety
4. EROAD Ehubo ELD
EROAD Ehubo ELD is a reliable and user-friendly device that simplifies compliance for owner-operators. It offers a straightforward interface for logging HOS and real-time visibility into your fleet’s operations. EROAD Ehubo ELD also provides valuable insights into fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior, helping you optimize your operations and reduce costs.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface for HOS logging
- Real-time fleet visibility and tracking
- Fuel management and vehicle diagnostics
- Customizable reporting and alerts
- Prices start at $25 per vehicle
Source: Eroad USA
5. KeepTruckin ELD – (Motive)
KeepTruckin ELD is a comprehensive solution that offers advanced vehicle diagnostics and maintenance tracking capabilities. This device integrates with your existing fleet management system, providing real-time insights into your vehicles’ performance, potential issues, and hours of service. KeepTruckin ELD also offers robust reporting and analytics, enabling you to make data-driven decisions for your business.
Key Features:
- Advanced vehicle diagnostics and maintenance tracking
- Real-time fleet visibility and tracking
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
- Driver behavior monitoring and coaching
- Starts at $40 per month
6. Verizon Connect ELD
Verizon Connect ELD is a powerful solution that excels in reporting and analytics. This device provides detailed insights into your fleet’s operations, including driver performance, fuel consumption, and route optimization. Verizon Connect ELD also offers customizable alerts and notifications, allowing you to stay informed and proactively address potential issues.
Key Features:
- Robust document management system
- Advanced safety features and driver coaching
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- IFTA reporting and compliance
- Prices range between $20 to $40 per month depending on the plan
Source: Verzion Connect
7. Azuga ELD
Azuga ELD is a flexible and scalable solution that offers a range of pricing plans to suit owner-operators’ needs. This device provides comprehensive fleet management capabilities, including real-time tracking, driver behavior monitoring, and fuel management. Azuga ELD also offers customizable reporting and analytics, enabling you to tailor the solution to your specific business requirements.
Key Features:
- Robust reporting and analytics capabilities
- Customizable alerts and notifications
- Real-time fleet visibility and tracking
- Integration with Verizon’s fleet management platform
- Start at $20 per month, depending on features
Source: Azuga a Bridgestone Company
8. Garmin ELog
Garmin ELog is a reliable and long-term solution for owner-operators. This device is built to withstand the rigors of the trucking industry, offering durability and longevity. Garmin ELog provides accurate HOS logging, IFTA reporting, and vehicle inspection capabilities, ensuring compliance with FMCSA regulations. Additionally, it offers real-time GPS tracking and routing optimization features.
Key Features:
- Durable and long-lasting hardware
- Accurate HOS logging and IFTA reporting
- Real-time GPS tracking and routing optimization
- Vehicle inspection and maintenance tracking
- The device ranges in cost from $220 to $250 per unit
9. Samsara ELD
Samsara ELD is a comprehensive solution that offers reliable services and robust features for owner-operators. This device provides real-time fleet visibility, driver behavior monitoring, and advanced vehicle diagnostics. Samsara ELD also offers customizable reporting and analytics, enabling you to gain valuable insights into your operations and make data-driven decisions.
Key Features:
- Real-time fleet visibility and tracking
- Advanced vehicle diagnostics and maintenance tracking
- Driver behavior monitoring and coaching
- Customizable reporting and analytics
- Prices range from $27 to $33 per vehicle
Source: Samsara
How do you choose the right ELD as an owner-operator?
Selecting the right ELD device for your business is crucial to ensure compliance, efficiency, and profitability. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing an ELD:
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Compliance: Look for ELD devices that are FMCSA-certified and comply with the latest regulations. Look for devices with accurate HOS logging, IFTA reporting, and vehicle inspection capabilities.
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Ease of Use: Consider devices with intuitive mobile apps or web portals for seamless access to data and reports.
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Reporting and Analytics: Look for solutions that provide comprehensive insights into driver performance, fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance, and route optimization.
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Integration: If you already have a fleet management system, consider an ELD that integrates with your existing platform.
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Customer Support: Look for ELD providers that offer responsive technical support and comprehensive training resources.
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Scalability: Evaluate devices that offer flexible pricing plans and the ability to add or remove features as needed.
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Additional Features: Evaluate any additional features offered by the ELD device, such as real-time GPS tracking, driver behavior monitoring, vehicle diagnostics, and document management capabilities.
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Cost: While cost should not be the sole deciding factor, consider the overall value proposition and long-term return on investment (ROI) of the ELD solution.
Source: Orbocomm
Conclusion
When selecting a device, consider factors such as compliance, ease of use, reporting and analytics capabilities, integration, customer support, scalability, and cost.
