If you are a driver or fleet manager living in the US, you already know what an ELD is, and whether you fall under the scope of the rule. The ELD rule of December 2019 mandates that every commercial carrier, fleet operator, and truck company must install an FMCSA-approved ELD – (Find out our curated list of Best FMCSA-approved ELD For Trucks). Failure to comply can attract heavy fines and, in extreme cases, revoking of license.
There are certain exceptions to the rule, especially for CMVs with engines manufactured before 2000. But even if your truck is old and has a newer engine you will have to get an ELD.
However, if your truck is old, and you are thinking of disposing of it in the next 4-5 years, you must consider some important factors while choosing an ELD for it. Therefore, to help you out we thought of curating a list of the Best ELD for Older Trucks that you can choose from according to your needs.
ELD for Older Trucks: An Overview
| Features | Matrack ELD | KeepTruckin ELD | EROAD Ehubo ELD | GPSTrackit ELD | Gorilla Safety ELD |
| Overall | 5.0 | 4.1 | 4.5 | 4.56 | 4.0 |
| FMCSA Compliance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Automated HoS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IFTA Fuel Tax Reporting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price | – | $149 | – | – | $175 |
| Monthly Subscription | $14.95/monthly | $35/monthly | $35.00/month | $23.95/monthly | $22/monthly |
| Customer Service | 5.0 | 3.4 | 4.5 | 4.1 | 2.7 |
| GPS Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Easy to Use | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 3.8 |
What are the Best alternatives for ELD For Older Trucks?
There are plenty of ELDs in the market and hence it is obvious to be confused about which one you should choose. Before selecting any one ELD, you should consider the features, price of the device, monthly subscription, and many more.
Don’t worry; here is the curated list of top ELD for older trucks in the market. The list covers all important features, pricing, subscription, pros, and cons of the ELDs.
Matrack ELD: Best Overall
Matrack ELD is the best electronic logging device in the market. You can never go wrong with its reliable data and easy-to-use interface. While your truck is getting old you cannot afford to purchase a costly ELD. This is why Matrack is a perfect choice for you. It provides a free ELD, low subscription cost, lifetime warranty, and no contract and therefore helps you to enjoy the benefits without being added cost.
It has a robust and durable design that implies nothing will happen to the device even if you are traveling along a rugged journey. Thus it has a long life which means you can use it for this device in the future also.
It has a seamless, intuitive, and user-friendly app specially designed for the convenience of truck drivers. They can easily change their status using their voice. These apps can run smoothly on android as well as iOS devices.
It has an automated and tampers-proof HoS data calculation system that is fully compliant with the DoT rules. This is helpful for you with compliance monitoring.
For example, suppose you have assigned some work to your truck driver and that exceeds his daily limit permitted by DoT. The Matrack ELD will automatically send you and the driver an alert. This can save you from penalties and questions of the inspection team. Moreover, this is dangerous for all those people out there like a tired and drowsy truck driver is no less than a grim reaper.
Features At Glance
- Automatic HoS
- Compliance Monitoring
- DoT Inspection Mode
- Fleet Tracking
- Multiple HoS rules
- IFTA Reporting
- Electronic DVIR
- Access Permission
Pros
+ FMCSA and DoT compliance
+ Easy DoT to transfer during inspections
+ Better Fleet Management
+ Easy installation
+ Easy to use
+ You can use it on Different Trucks
+ Idle time tracking
+ Voice-enabled interface
Cons
– Only covers the US, Canada, and Mexico
Keep Truckin ELD: Best For Older Trucks
Another easy-to-use Electronic logging device that provides reliable reading and is fully compliant with the FMCSA rules is KeepTruckin ELD. This ELD is known to provide a complete ELD solution for your fleet. Installing this device is simple. All you need to do is plug it in into the vehicle’s diagnostic port and then install the app of the company. This makes it easier for you to use the device in your other trucks or vehicles.
With the help of KeepTruckin ELD, you can easily track and manage drivers, vehicles, and assets from a single dashboard. You can also monitor the engine activity, this is extremely beneficial for you when you’re owning an older truck. Old trucks need regular maintenance and this feature helps you to monitor vehicles’ health easily.
It also performs streamline operations such as compliance; facilitates communication and helps in document management.
The KeepTruckin ELD solutions also provide one of the best customer support services in the whole industry. This means even if you have a single doubt or if you were facing any difficulty with the device, the technical support team would be there to help you. You can reach them through emails, telephone, or social media websites.
Features At Glance
- FMCSA Compliance
- Additional Fleet Management Solutions
- GPS Tracking
- Maintenance & Fuel
- IFTA Fuel Tax Reporting
- Smart Dashcam
- Messaging
- Vehicle Diagnostics
Pros
+ User Friendly
+ Easy to Install and Use
+ Affordable
+ Best Customer Support System
Cons
– Strict Contract for the First Year
– Slow or Stops Working Sometimes
EROAD Ehubo ELD: Third-Party Verified ELD
EROAD Ehubo ELD is next on our list. This fleet management solution is packed with multiple features, along with being fully compliant with the ELD rule. It is not a new player in the market and has excelled in manufacturing high-quality devices.
The EROAD Ehubo ELD is constructed of high-quality, durable, and sturdy material that can easily last long. Therefore you can use this product in the present as well as in the future. This ELD solution provides so many features at low prices that there are no more devices to beat it. The low prices make it fit to use for older trucks that are ready to be disposed of by 4-5 years.
This ELD is 100% ELD rule compliant, and it is included in the FMCSA provided list. Moreover, it also uses third-party sources to confirm its compliance with the rule. Therefore, you can rely on this device without the fear of changing it again after you buy a new truck.
Features At Glance
- FMCSA Compliance
- GPS Tracking
- Geofencing
- DVIRs
- Fuel Tax Management
- Additional Fleet Management Solutions
- Asset Tracking
- Fleet Health
- Driver Management
Pros
+ Durable
+ Easy to use and install
+ Third-party verified
+ Accurate and Reliable
+ Handles Short-haul exemption
Cons
– Questionable Customer Support
– Smaller Screen
GPSTrackit ELD: Affordable ELD
The small and versatile fleet management software on our list is GPS Trackit ELD. This ELD is fully compliant with the FMCSA rule and offers simple and ready to plug-in units. This makes it an ideal ELD for you as you can buy it without any fear of a heavy installation process. Hence you can remove it and plug it in different vehicles easily. This is why it is one of the favorite choices among fleet vehicle tracking companies, fleet management operators, small and large vehicles.
Moreover, the ELD is backed by excellent customer support. Other notable features include fuel control, driver monitoring, accident reporting, real-time GPS tracking solution, and many more.
Features At Glance
- Reduce Fleet Costs
- Available for Every Device
- Track your Assets
- Automate Fleet Reports
- Traffic Overlays
- Satellite and Hybrid View
- Comply with Federal Rules
- Trip Histories
Pros
+ No long-term contract
+ FMCSA and DoT Compliant
+ Affordable
+ Aids Fleet Management
Cons
– Separate ELD costs
Gorilla Safety ELD: Best For Document Management
Last but not least, the ELD on our list is the Gorilla Safety ELD. The device is fully compliant with the FMCSA regulations and uses the latest technology to perform several functions.
Another important feature of the Gorilla Safety ELD is that it helps in training the drivers. It has an entire department dedicated to training drivers to master roads and regulations. This will help you to reduce bad driving behavior which even shortens your truck’s lifeline. It also provides other features such as repair and maintenance reports, document management, eDVIR and mechanic inspections, accident investigation, and many more.
Features At Glance
- Risk Management: Driver Training, Accident Investigation, CSA Scores, and Maintenance and Repair Programs
- Document Management
- ELD Mobile Document
- eDVIR and Mechanic Inspection
- Full GPS Tracking
- Web-based Dashboard
- Alerts
Pros
+ Affordable Price
+ Durable
+ Management Tools
Cons
– Questionable Customer Support
– Lack Basic Tracking
Verizon ELD
Verizon ELD is a comprehensive solution that can help you comply with the DoT rules and reduce the burden of fleet managers with its fleet management system integration. It is not a simple device for compliance but much more than that. It supports BYOD (Bring your device) so your driver can use their device to log in and certify logs. They won’t struggle to adapt to a new device and can spend the time on roads.
Verizon ELD has a simple installation process. The device comes with various cables, i.eOBDII connector, 6-pin, and 9-pin to fit in your truck’s diagnostics port. You can plug the device into the vehicle and connect it to your mobile phone to enjoy full compliance.
Verizon offers a user-friendly mobile application that drivers can use to log in their duty status and certify their logs. At the same time, fleet managers can use the same to access the working hours, time remaining, HoS status of drivers, violation alerts, DVIRs, and other valuable data about their business. It has time to reduce the DoT inspection violation risks and avoid associated fines with proactive alerts.
The fleet managers can check the HoS status of the drivers and suggest edits if they find any issues with the logs. They can also schedule preventive maintenance on time. It helps you increase your vehicle’s longevity and avoid vehicle downtime or an unexpected breakdown.
Verizon also provides better control to the fleet managers over their fleet. They can monitor the driver’s behavior and detect any driving behavior with real-time alerts. It helps them to restrict reckless driving activity with real-time alerts. Another benefit of this solution is that you can track the time your drivers spend on vehicle idling. In this way, you can identify and restrict vehicle idling in your feet which would help you to avoid fuel wastage and save thousands of dollars every month.
Feature A Glance
- Vehicle health
- GPS tracking device
- Document scanning
- Performance reporting
- Safety alerts
- IFTA
- Two-way messaging
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Integrated dash cam
Pros
- Real-time tracking
- Maximize productivity
- Deployment of cloud SaaS
- Fuel and cost tracking feature
- E-DVIR
- Reduce operational cost
Cons
- Contracts based solution
BigRoad Dashlink ELD
BigRoad Dashlink ELD is a simple and affordable solution. It is an easy-to-use device that you and your employees can adapt in no time. It offers multiple connector options for different diagnostics ports and OCM installation ports. It is suitable for almost all types of vehicles and models.
BigRoad Dashlink ELD comes with an intuitive mobile application. It provides several features to improve your fleet performance and ensure compliance with prevailing rules and regulations. You can download the app on your smartphone or tablet. It supports both Android and iOS devices. It can help you to eliminate paperwork and create logs in minutes. It has preloaded HoS rulesets to help you comply with various rules. It also allows you to monitor the driver’s working hours and avoid violations as it sends notifications before they exceed their driving limit.
Another feature of BigRoad Dashlink ELD is real-time visibility. It also provides GPS tracking features so you can always stay connected to the drivers. You can use the web portal to determine their location. It also helps you to send immediate backups in case they need help. It assists you in improving customer satisfaction.
The fleet managers can also monitor the vehicle’s health. They can streamline vehicle diagnostics with fault code detection and real-time alerts. It helps them schedule vehicle maintenance on time and reduce vehicle breakdowns and downtime.
Features At A Glance
- GPS tracking
- BigRoad web portal
- Innovative mobile application
- Real-time visibility
Pros
- User-friendly device
- Affordable price
- Free Device
- Two-way messaging
- IFTA reports
- Document scanning
- Easy installation
Cons
- Lacks advanced features
Zonar ELD
Zonar ELD is a comprehensive solution that works more than just as a compliance device. Even if you are exempted from the ELD, you can still use this device to streamline your fleet operations and boost performance.
Zonar ELD is compatible with OBDII and JBus. You can also buy other cables: 4-pin, 3-wire power cables, light-duty power cables, 9-pin, and 6-pin power cables, to connect the device to your truck. It has an easy installation process. You have to locate the vehicle diagnostic port and connect the device to it. You have to securely fix the tablet so drivers can access it without difficulty. It should also not hinder driving.
The Zonar ELD comes with a Zonar 2020 tablet. It has a user-friendly interface, so your drivers can access it. They can use this to log in and certify their logs. They can also complete their DVIR report with ease.
Zonar ELD also offers fleet management features to help you to streamline fleet operations. It offers GPS tracking functionality. It enables you to stay in touch with your remote-working employees. It is helpful to improve the security of your fleet and prevent theft.
Another notable feature of Zonar ELD is fleet health. The device derives the fault codes and diagnostics directly from the engine. It
allows you to detect faults on time and schedule preventive maintenance. Fleet managers can also use the dashboard to get an overview of the health of different vehicles in the organization.
The fleet managers can also use the same dashboard to track the fuel consumption in their fleet. You can view the driver’s driving behavior and restrict reckless driving activity. It provides analytics like fleet-wide fuel costs, flags high-fuel trips, and data on how driver behavior leads to high fuel consumption.
Features At A Glance
- Electronic DVIR
- HoS record
- GPS tracking
- Preemptive alerts
- In-cab video coaching
- Cloud portal
- Integrated dashcam
- Fuel efficiency tracking
Pros
- Tamper-resistant
- User-friendly interface
- Sturdy hardware display
- Sleek and modern design
Cons
- Customer support can be better
What Is An ELD?
An ELD also known as Electronic Logging Device, is a piece of electronic device attached to the vehicle’s engine to record the working hours of the truck drivers. It also records other statistics related to the engine such as miles covered, fuel consumption, vehicle status, etc.
What Is The ELD Rule?
“[FMCSA] announced the adoption of a Final Rule that will improve roadway safety by employing technology to strengthen commercial truck and bus drivers’ compliance with hours-of-service regulations that prevent fatigue.”
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced the ELD mandate in December 2017. Back then it was a voluntary activity but only after 2019, it was made compulsory. This rule is applied to all commercial interstate truck drivers, bus drivers, and motor carriers.
What Are The ELD Rule Exemptions?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration currently allows some exemptions for the ELD:
- Short-haul drivers
- Driveaway- towaway driver
- Vehicles models date back to 1999 or even more early
- Drivers who use the Record of Duty Status (RODS) for less than 8 days in a month
- Agriculture and farm vehicles
What Are The Major Benefits Of An ELD?
Although FMCSA has listed certain exceptions, getting an ELD for your CMV or fleet is still beneficial as it adds efficiency to your fleet management. For example, with an ELD you can monitor the fuel cost, idle timings, vehicle status, and other statistics, saving you thousands of dollars.
Some of the benefits of ELD for your CMV or fleet are:
Reduced Paperwork
An ELD automatically records the vehicle’s movement and the driver’s logging time. Traditionally truckers and fleet operators used to track their log-in time manually, requiring a lot of manual paperwork and effort. With the ELD, you can manually record HoS and save records for future use.
IFTA Tax Calculation
According to the International Fuel Tax Agreement, truckers and fleet operators working interstate have to submit quarterly fuel tax reports in each state. This is a tedious job and requires a lot of work hours. With the help of ELD, you can manage to submit your IFTA tax report easily.
Save Dollars
ELD can save you thousands of dollars by streamlining and integrating several operational functions into one. With ELD, you can minimize expenses on extra fuel consumption, idling time, and manual paperwork.
Vehicle Maintenance
An ELD is connected to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and allows you to access the engine statistics. It can help you to detect any kind of fault code and repair it before it becomes a big issue. You can also know which fault is recurring by historical fault code report and repair it by root. This can help you to increase the lifeline of your truck.
Location Tracking
Another important benefit of the ELD is GPS-enabled real-time location tracking. Fleet operators can easily monitor the live location of their trucks, hence can improve their communication with the customer.
For example, suppose one truck of your fleet sets out for delivery on a long haul. You have to depend on your driver for the safety of the asset and the time it will be delivered. If for some reason, you lost contact with your trucker how would you ensure the safety of your truck?
This is where the ELD with GPS tracking comes into play. It can help you to have a live location of your truck and can ensure the safe delivery of your asset.
Detect Bad Driving Behavior
ELD is attached to the vehicle’s diagnostic port thereby recording the working hours and generating useful reports. This includes the driving behavior of the truckers like harsh acceleration, sudden brakes, hard cornering, etc. You can hence overcome the upcoming chaos and talk to your drivers and also help them to improve their driving skills.
Ensure Safety
ELD is important for the safety of drivers and also for those walking on the road. The main motive of the ELD rule was to reduce the working hours of the truck drivers and thereby reduce the number of road accidents.
For example, truck drivers are paid for the hours they work and therefore drivers tend to overwork to earn more. This causes fatigue and drowsiness that can be extremely dangerous while driving. According to a report, collisions involving trucks and trailers are more likely to result in loss of life.
Higher Revenue
The last but most important benefit for any fleet organization is higher revenues. With the help of ELD, you can reap higher profits than you are earning initially. This is because an ELD would help you to monitor your fleet, perform better fleet management, reduce excess fuel cost, monitor vehicles health, get higher insurance rates, and reduce liabilities. These all will eventually help you to yield higher profits.
Is it important for old trucks to have an ELD?
There is a lot of confusion regarding ELD rules for older trucks. To clear all the doubts and throw insight into the exemptions of the rule, FMCSA came forward and made everything clear. It clearly stated that vehicles made before the 2000s, which means engines manufactured before the 2000s are exempted from the rule. Let’s understand this with the help of an example.
For example, if a vehicle is made before 2000 but has an engine manufactured after the 2000s then they have to comply with the ELD rule. Alternatively, if a vehicle is made after the 2000s, but has an engine manufactured before the 2000s is exempted from the rule.
Note: Vehicle registration date or manufacture date is not important.
Conclusion
It is confusing for the old truck drivers and other exemptions to decide whether to employ ELD or not. But even if you are exempted from the rule you can surely employ ELD for better fleet management and to enjoy peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an ELD device, and why do I need one for my old truck?
A: An ELD (Electronic Logging Device) is a hardware device used to record a commercial truck driver’s hours of service (HOS) electronically. If your old truck is used for commercial purposes, you may need an ELD device to comply with FMCSA regulations.
Q: How do I know if an ELD device is compatible with my old truck?
A: Before purchasing an ELD device, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that the device is compatible with your old truck’s make and model. You may also want to consult with the device’s customer support team to confirm compatibility.
Q: Can I install an ELD device on my old truck myself?
A: Yes, most ELD devices are designed to be user-friendly and easy to install. However, if you are unsure about the installation process or have any concerns about compatibility, it may be a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic.
Q: What features should I look for when choosing an ELD device for my old truck?
A: When choosing an ELD device for your old truck, look for features such as ease of use, compatibility with your existing systems, customer support, GPS tracking, driver coaching, and compliance with FMCSA regulations. You may also want to consider factors such as cost and durability.
Q: Are there any exemptions for ELD use for old trucks?
A: There are no exemptions for ELD use based on the age of the truck. If your truck is used for commercial purposes and is required to comply with FMCSA regulations, you will need to use an ELD device regardless of its age.
James Johnson is a former truck driver who now works as a writer, specializing in the trucking industry. With over 15 years of experience on the road, James has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by truck drivers and the trucking industry as a whole. His writing focuses on issues such as safety, regulation, and the latest industry trends. His work has been featured in several trucking publications and he has received recognition for his contributions to the industry. In his free time, James still enjoys being around trucks and often attends truck shows and other industry events.