Logging devices have become increasingly common in commercial vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has provided guidelines on how companies need to use these tools. One of the greatest benefits employers have discovered is that the devices create more efficient route management and help reduce driver fatigue. Luckily, the advantages do not end there, and there are many ways for both employers and drivers to benefit.

1. Limit Fuel Wastage

There is a component of the device that allows employers to determine when drivers idle too long. By determining which drivers contribute to excessive idling, the employer can cut costs and potentially save thousands of dollars every year.

2. Reduce Administrative Burden

Decades ago, a vehicle’s movement would need to be tracked and logged by hand. With electronic devices, all of that information is provided digitally. Instead of giving the drivers more administrative duties, businesses can save time and money by streamlining the process.

3. Improve Route Management

Managers can know precisely where a vehicle is located through GPS tracking. As a result, managers can reduce distractions if a driver appears to go off-course. This technology is also advantageous because it allows drivers to collaborate with fleet managers to find the most efficient delivery route possible.

4. Identify Bad Behaviors

Many commercial trucks have stickers saying something along the lines of “Please Report Bad Driving.” These days, managers do not require such tips because they know exactly when a driver is going excessively over the speed limit or brakes too aggressively. As a result, the company can give the driver better training to be safer on the road going forward or terminate the driver’s employment.

5. Decrease Insurance Premiums

There are many ways trucking companies can reduce the amount of money they need to pay on insurance premiums. One way to reduce these payments is to install safety equipment, such as logging devices. In addition to the reduced risk of getting in an accident, the devices also help prevent the truck from getting stolen. GPS features mean police can easily locate the truck in the event it gets stolen, so insurance companies are often more than willing to extend some discounts.

6. Reduce Legal Liabilities

Trucking companies will always have to deal with lawsuits. Even if the accident was the fault of a driver in a standard sedan, a court may still view the company as liable. However, electronic logging devices provide useful information as evidence to show the truck driver was not at fault for the collision. The company may not have to pay thousands of dollars in penalties thanks to a single device.

7. Strengthen Profits

Installing the logging devices will cost money upfront, but companies stand to save a ton of money over the years. There will be a significant reduction in operational costs, and the business will save money from reduced insurance rates. Better equipment means fleets will typically see a better driver retention rate. Not having to constantly train new drivers will save a business a lot of money in the long run. With a reduction in operational expenses, the company can expect to quickly see higher profits very soon.

8. Improve the Company’s CSA Score

The government came up with Compliance, Safety and Accountability, a program designed to increase driver safety. A low CSA score means the Department of Transportation will pay the company a visit in the near future. With ELDs, the business can show how safe its drivers are, and that means no run-ins with the law.

Electronic logging devices are quickly becoming essential to truck drivers all over the country. Any company that does not yet have one installed in every vehicle needs to get started immediately.