According to FMCSA(Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), from December 16, 2019, every long-haul commercial vehicle in the United States must have an ELD installed in it. The drivers must track HoS (Hours of Service) using only registered and compliant electronic logging devices. Therefore, we planned to help you by making a curated list of the best ELDs for sale for your commercial vehicle.
The ELD (Electronic Logging Device) is an advanced electronic device that automatically syncs with a commercial motor vehicle’s engine to track and record the driving time. It plugs into your vehicle and records the data on the engine, location, speed, vehicle movement and location, miles driven, and more.
ELD records the HoS, which is the number of hours your driver spends driving per day. It also tracks the hours of their on-duty and off-duty per week. The HoS is regulated by the DoT and implemented by FMCSA.
ELDs are also known for their multipurpose functionality because they record various other data that can be helpful for fleet management. They are composed of in-built GPS, accelerometers, gyroscopes and can be advantageous for both drivers and owners.
What are the major functions of ELDs for sale?
An efficient ELD must offer utility beyond compliance; it must contribute to streamlining your trucking operation and increasing your overall productivity.
Here are a few things you must look for in an ideal ELD:
Accurate Recording
The ELDs are meant to record the drive time, HoS, and driver’s duty status of the commercial vehicle that comes under the rule of FMCSA.
Real-Time Location
As an owner-operator or a fleet manager, you need to know the location of your vehicles. You can get a GPS-enabled ELD that records HoS and also the real-time location. It is best to opt for a simplified and integrated technology that offers an all-inclusive solution to save money and time.
Monitor Engine Speed
The ELDs are smart and advanced devices. They automatically record the time when the vehicle speed is above 5 miles per hour. You can monitor speed through this and guide your drivers to adhere to better driving practices.
Fuel Management
If you think investing in ELDs is an extra expense, you would want to reconsider it. An ELD, once connected to the diagnostic port of the vehicle, can record its idle time, and mileage and help you schedule timely maintenance. Along with a driving behavior report, you can drive your business towards fuel efficiency, saving money, and making your operations environment-friendly.
Route Management
Knowing where your fleet is at any given time can considerably enhance your productivity. With a GPS-enabled ELD, you can pre-set routes for hauls that are faster. Based on traffic information, the condition of the roads, construction zones, and the location of your clients, you can easily optimize a route to get the most of your resources.
Checking Diagnostics
Once you plug the ELD into the truck’s diagnostic port, it has access to its fault codes. It sends alerts whenever your truck has some technical issues or needs maintenance. Getting issues fixed on time can ultimately increase the life of your vehicle and its engine.
IFTA Calculations
Before the usage of advanced ELDs, IFTA calculations were done manually. It was a tedious and error-prone task. With mileage and fuel consumption data, ELDs have automated the IFTA calculation, making paper records redundant.
Improving CSA Score
Any Fleet is judged based on its CSA score (compliance, safety, and accountability score). ELDs can help the fleet to improve their CSA as they can regularly check their HoS, duty status, and driving behavior and work accordingly. CSA scores can be checked on the CSA program website with your carrier name or DOT number.
What are the different types of ELDs?
There are two types of ELDs available in the market.
BYOD
A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) ELD allows you to plug in the device to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. The device is removable at any time you want. These ELDs can also be accessed or operated through mobiles and tablets.
Fixed
The Fixed ELDs are hard-wired to your vehicle and stay there all the time. You might need technical expertise to install this device. However, as fleet vehicles are often assigned to different drivers, fixed ELDs are not the first choice for them.
Looking for ELDs for your trucks? Check out our curated list of Best ELD For Trucks.
Best ELDs for sale available in the market [Reviewed]
There are numerous ELDs for sale available in the market. Choosing the best ELDs for sale for your trucks or fleet can be a bit confusing at times. You have to select the ELD that comes at a reasonable price with all the necessary features. Moreover, they should be compliant with the FMCSA rules. You can check out our guide on How to Choose the Best ELD for your Trucks or Fleets? Here are the best ELDs for sale that may match your trucking or fleet requirements:
Matrack ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Automated HoS Logging
- Recording Idle Time
- IFTA Calculations
- Geo-Fencing
- Accident Reporting
- Voice-Enabled Status Changing
The Matrack ELD is the best overall ELD for sale for trucks and fleets currently available in the market. It is known for its reliability and easy-to-use qualities. This ELD is one of the most popular ELDs because it comes equipped with numerous features that satisfy the drivers and the owner-operators.
This device is designed to offer the best experience at a minimum cost. Matrack set itself apart by providing you with free hardware, no contracts, a low monthly subscription, and a lifetime warranty.
This ELD is compliant with the FMCSA guidelines. You can rely on it for recording data of your vehicle for managing the HoS and other operations.
When it comes to installing the hardware, you don’t need an expert for the process. You just need to connect the hardware to the OBDII port of the vehicle, turn on the HoS app, and it’s ready to go. You’ll notice a solid green LED that indicates the device is registered on the vehicle.
The MATRACK MA-ELD app is available on Google Play Store and the App Store for Android and iOS. The app is user-friendly, and anyone can operate it. Once you connect the ELD with the mobile app, you get all the information on your smartphone.
Matrack leaves no area compromised when in the field of useful features of ELD. It’s an intuitive device that offers you real-time location, voice-based status change, Bluetooth, Geofencing, automated reporting, IFTA calculations, automated HoS logs, log transfer on inspections, etc.
If you look for the benefits apart from staying compliant, the Matrack ELD will stand by your expectations. It helps the fleet manager in many ways. It lessens your paperwork, minimizes fuel wastage, assists in route management, enhances safety, and identifies driving behaviors.
Matrack provides you the hardware free of cost. You need to pay for a monthly subscription of $14.95. There are no charges for the cancellation process. You can opt for cancellation anytime. Furthermore, there are no contracts or hidden fees while purchasing the device.
The company has the best customer service available for you 24×7. They are empathetic while listening to your issues and give you the best solutions available. They offer a lifetime warranty on all ELDs, and a 30-day free return policy, making it the best and most affordable ELD.
PROS
- Easy-to-use and has a user-friendly interface.
- Accurate reporting.
- Efficient Fleet Management.
- Voice-based status changing option.
- Automatic IFTA reporting.
CONS
- Installation can take time.
Garmin eLog Compliant ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Rubber Capping
- Pairing Button
- Secure HoS storage
Garmin is one of the renowned names in the GPS industry. Founded in 1989, this company has made remarkable progress to date, especially in electronic devices. The Garmin eLog ELD is a stand-alone ELD that is very efficient, durable, and compliant with the FMCSA rules.
This ELD is a smart device that records most of the data from your vehicle. All you have to do is install it on your truck, and drive. It will automatically record your HoS without your engagement. However, you can enter some information manually in the case of changes.
You can stay care-free while you choose Garmin eLog ELD for your HOS recording compliance with FMCSA standards. It does the automatic recording and provides you with the driver’s duty status. You can also check the remaining driving hours per day or week.
It’s an easy-to-setup device that supports both 9 pins and 6-pin diagnostic ports. You have to plug in the device, download the mobile app (available on Android and iOS), and you are good to go. Remember, this device is not compatible with vehicles that have an OBDII port (protocol SAE J1979). You will require a separate 16-pin to 9-pin adapter cable for such vehicles.
The Garmin eLog App is free and stores the data on your smartphone rather than on cloud storage. You can access the data anytime you want and present it at the time of inspection.
Currently, this ELD is available at the price of $249.99. The company doesn’t charge any subscription fees. They also offer you live customer support over the phone, via chat, and by email.
PROS
- The app stores the data on your phone rather than the cloud.
- Compatible with both 6-pin and 9-pin diagnostic ports.
- Easy-to-setup.
CONS
- Not compatible with the OBDII port (protocol SAE J1979).
- The app might lag and disconnect sometimes.
- Decreases the phone battery life.
Omnitracs IVG ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Bluetooth
- WiFi
- 4g LTE Connection
- Input and Output to Run 3rd Party Diagnostics
- HoursGo App to Access Drivers Logs
Omnitracs is one of the pioneers in the ELD industry. Omnitracs IVG (Intelligent Vehicle Gateway) ELD is among the most cost-efficient and safest devices available in the market. It comes with multifaceted features that help the driver and the fleet managers, and at the same time stays compliant with the FMCSA rules. It allows you to set custom alerts to prevent you from violating any rule.
With robust and durable ELD Omnitracs IVG offers high functionality and tools to the customers. The IVG ELD offers you in providing the reports of VIR (Vehicle Inspection Reporting), logging HoS, GPS, driving behavior, etc.
Designed to stay compliant with FMCSA standards, the IVG ELD comes with a user-friendly interface for drivers. The easy-to-operate device comes with a touchscreen display, intuitive alerts, and hands-free functionality. It has an intelligent voice interface that allows drivers to access key features by voice commands. The device also works as a mobile WiFi hotspot allowing drivers to connect their phone or tablet and get internet through the ELD.
It’s an easy-to-install device. Compatible with the 6-pin diagnostic port and can work on a simple plug-and-play option.
The HoursGO mobile app acts as an assistant to the drivers. They can remotely clock in or out and check their HoS logs. The app is available on the Android and iOS platforms.
Currently, the upfront price of the IVG ELD is $750, and the monthly subscription is offered at the price of $30.
PROS
- Intuitive design and interface.
- Available with a mobile WiFi hotspot.
- Easy to set up.
- A trendsetter with a lot of new features.
CONS
- A costly device.
- Difficult to understand by new users/drivers.
Gorilla Safety ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Real-Time Reporting
- Records HoS Electronically
- Keeping Track of Vehicle and Fuel Maintenance
- Developing and Storing Main Documents
- Tracking Fleet using GPS
- Custom Alerts
Gorilla Safety is amongst the promising newcomers for the supply of cost-efficient ELDs. This ELD allows the drivers to turn on the document capturing through the dedicated E-log mobile app. It is the best document management ELD available in the market as you can scan and file the documents on the go. It helps in increasing the efficiency of fleets by prioritizing document filing.
The ELD by Gorilla Safety is fully compliant with FMCSA regulations. It comes with a lot of exciting and useful features that include driver’s training, CSA score, document management, eDVIR, web access portal, custom alerts, etc.
It is an affordable device despite providing ample features. You have to pay a $7 upfront lease price and a monthly subscription of $12. Providing you the lowest costing ELD plan and a free trial, the Gorilla Safety ELD is the best value for your money for your ELD solutions.
PROS
- Document management.
- Set custom alerts.
- CSA score option.
CONS
- Doesn’t have features like electronic logs miscalculations and checking engine fault codes.
KeepTruckin ELD
KEY FEATURES
- GPS Tracking
- ELD Compliance
- IFTA Fuel Tax Calculation and Reporting
- Smart Dashcam
- Messaging
KeepTruckin is one of the most trustworthy brands in the ELD industry. It is a leading cloud company in the market and its ELD is trusted by many fleet managers and owner-operators.
KeepTruckin provides different ELD solutions based on the size class of your vehicle. They have different plans for every class. There are 3 ELD price plans offered by KeepTruckin
- The free plan
- The starter plan ($20)
- The plus plan ($30)
The ELD has all the vital features like GPS tracking, Geofencing, engine diagnostics, fuel management, IFTA reporting, driver scorecard, etc. It also has a smart dashcam that records a 10-second video on critical events such as sudden acceleration, braking, etc.
They have a dedicated user-friendly app that allows recording various activities such as setting vehicle inspections, sending messages, checking logs, etc. The app is available for both Android as well as iOS users. Furthermore, the ELD doesn’t require any technical expertise for the installation process.
KeepTruckin offers their hardware on lease free of cost for 1 year. The ELD services Starter plan, which comes at the rate of $20, will provide you with all the basic features. The premium features like vehicle diagnostics and IFTA fuel tracking are available with the Plus plan of $30. Read our detailed review of KeepTruckin ELD for more information.
PROS
- Easy installation process.
- Empathetic customer support.
- Cost-efficient ELD.
- User-friendly and intuitive interface.
CONS
- Dashcam features are annoying sometimes.
- The mobile app works slowly.
Verizon ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Vehicle health
- GPS tracking device
- Document scanning
- Performance reporting
- Safety alerts
- IFTA
- Two-way messaging
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Integrated dash cam
Verizon ELD is an integrated electronic logging device that can help you comply with DoT rules and streamline your fleet operations. Verizon is a reliable partner that provides your drivers and fleet manager 24/7 support, easy installation, 99.9% system uptime, and high data integrity.
Verizon offers integrated mobile applications and web portals for drivers and fleet managers. The drivers can download the app and use their device to log in or change their duty status, complete DVIRS reports, etc. On the other hand, fleet managers can log in to the web portal to access ELD data.
Additionally, Verizon offers some fleet tracking functionality to increase visibility in your organization. You can monitor the driver behavior with alerts, get vehicle idling stats, and also improve your response time by tracking the trucks in real-time on the map.
The most significant thing about this ELD is that even though you can enjoy several fleet management features along with compliance. It is a pretty affordable solution, you can get the hardware for free and just have to pay for the monthly subscription plans.
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
KEY FEATURES
- GPS tracking
- BigRoad web portal
- Innovative mobile application
- Real-time visibility
BigRoad Dashlink ELD is an FMCSA-certified electronic logging device. It is a comprehensive solution that is easy to use and adapt for drivers and fleet managers. If your business operates intra-state, then this is the perfect match for you. The solution supports USA and Canadian laws, so you will never have to worry about compliance or purchase multiple devices to comply with the rules.
BigRoad Dashlink ELD is the best device for both fleet managers and drivers. It has a user-friendly mobile application that automatically counts the hours of service records due to status and displays traffic conditions. It helps the driver to make their journey easy and focus on driving rather than worrying about other things.
The fleet managers also get to enjoy several benefits and can reduce the burden with advanced fleet management features. It has a web portal through which fleet managers can access significant data insights, valuable reports, and compliance management tools. It also has them stay connected with their drivers and monitor their driving activity.
BigRoad offers free devices with monthly subscription fees of $40. So it is a budget-friendly option for you. The company also has three other plans for you. You can choose any one of them according to your company’s needs and save money.
PROS
- User-friendly device
- Affordable price
- Free Device
- Two-way messaging
- IFTA reports
- Document scanning
- Easy installation
CONS
- Lacks advanced features
Teletrac Navman ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Versatile and user-friendly solution
- Fuel-saving
- Driver coaching and retention
- Driver and admin role-based training
- Vehicle maintenance
- Reduced insurance premiums
Teletrac Navman ELD is a simple, easy-to-use, and affordable solution that you can use to stay on top of your complaint-related issues, including hours of service and DoT roadside inspections. It not only helps your business to comply but also helps in increasing efficiency and boosting performance with its other features such as real-time alerts, GPS tracking document management, vehicle maintenance, etc.
Besides basic compliance features, Teletrac Navman ELD helps you to improve fleet safety. It has you to monitor the driver’s behavior with real-time alerts. It also creates risk profiles through advanced driver analytics so that you can overview the driving behavior of different drivers.
It allows you to acknowledge the drivers with good driving behavior and arrange training sessions for those engaged in reckless driving activity. You can also upgrade your solution by buying an integrated dashboard camera.
PROS
- Free Device
- Navigation
- Training programs
- GPS tracking
- Easy to use and adapt
- Electronic DVIR
- Automatic IFTA report
- Real-time communication
- 24/7 customer support
CONS
- You have to pay monthly subscription fees.
HoS247 ELD
KEY FEATURES
- Electronic DVIR
- HoS record
- GPS tracking
- Preemptive alerts
- Cloud portal
- Integrated dashcam
- Fuel efficiency tracking
HoS247 ELD is a reliable electronic logging device to prevent HoS and DoT violations. It is FMCSA-certified, so will help you to comply with the prevailing rules. It is an easy-to-use solution; hence highly rated by drivers, owner-operators, and fleet managers. It has reliable hardware that you can install in minutes and connect to your device via Bluetooth or USB.
HoS247 ELD has a logbook app that allows drivers to manage and edit their logs, manage or edit DVIR reports, get drivers to support, on-road training, and maintain compliance to avoid costly violations. It also has an intuitive web portal that allows fleet managers with compliance monitoring, access to real-time location, vehicle diagnostics, fleet maintenance, etc.
PROS
- Easy installation process
- Exceptional customer service
- IFTA reporting
- Fleet tracking
- Compliance monitoring
- Electronic DVIR
- Multiple HoS rules
CONS
- You will get the device only when you pay subscription fees one year in advance.
EZLogz ELD
KEY FEATURES
- IFTA report
- Document Center tool
- Weather forecast
- Violations alerts
- Chat
- Multi-language 24/7 support
- Truck navigation
- Electronic DVIR
EZLogz ELD is a comprehensive solution that offers some advanced features. It includes GPS tracking, IFTA reports, navigation, & trip planning capabilities, along with compliance.
EZLogz ELD offers easy-to-use software for login hours of service and fulfilling the FMCSA requirements. The drivers can log in, change their duty status, scan diesel receipts, and complete DVIR reports. They can also switch to inspection mode to make road inspection easier and avoid violations.
EZLogz ELD offers features such as a trucker trip planner and point-of-interest maps.
Trucker trip planner features help managers plan the next dispatch. They can monitor the estimated arrival time, drivers working hours, and road conditions to make informed decisions.
EZLogz ELD also has a point-of-interest map that has thousands of significant location pinpoints. It helps the driver can easily navigate through an unknown way. They can view the nearby fuel stations along with the diesel price, rest stops, weigh stations, etc.
PROS
- Automated DVIRs and IFTA reports
- Two-way messaging
- Document scanning
- Blockchain technology makes the solution tamper proof
- 24/7 multilingual customer service
CONS
- Occupies sizable memory space
- Need constant update
The Bottom Line
If you are looking to buy the best ELD for sale for your trucks or vehicles, you have to check all requirements for your business before buying. An efficient ELD should cover all basic needs for your trucking business, and at the same time, it should stay compliant. Check its features, compatibility, installation process, mobile app, ease of use, and monthly subscription before buying it.
We hope this list of the best ELDs for sale was informative and helped you arrive at a decision. All the devices mentioned above comply with the FMCSA standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is an ELD important?
A: An ELD is important because it helps fleet managers and drivers comply with the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It also helps to reduce paperwork and improve the accuracy of HOS data.
Q: What are the benefits of using an ELD?
A: The benefits of using an ELD include improved compliance with HOS regulations, reduced paperwork, improved accuracy of HOS data, and increased efficiency.
Q: What features should I look for when choosing an ELD?
A: When choosing an ELD, you should look for features such as ease of use, compatibility with your vehicles, reliability, customer support, and compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Q: Do I need an ELD?
A: If you are a commercial motor carrier or driver subject to the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, then you are required to use an ELD to record your HOS data.
Q: How much does an ELD cost?
A: The cost of an ELD can vary depending on the provider and the features included. Generally, you can expect to pay between $200 and $1,000 per unit, with ongoing monthly fees for service and support.
Q: Can I install an ELD myself?
A: Yes, you can install an ELD yourself if you are familiar with the installation process and have the necessary tools. However, it is recommended that you seek professional installation to ensure proper installation and compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Q: How do I choose the right ELD provider?
A: When choosing an ELD provider, you should consider factors such as reputation, customer support, product features, and pricing. You may also want to read reviews and ask for recommendations from other fleet managers or drivers.
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.