How to Utilize ELD Data to Benefit Your Fleet
Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are typically used to keep your fleet operation compliant with the new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandate and help drivers track their hours of service.
But there are also additional uses for the information ELDs collect. Take a look at different ways your fleet operation can utilize ELD data to benefit your operation.
Track Vehicle Idling
According to KeepTruckin.com, for a truck that consumes $70,000 worth of fuel yearly, it’s estimated that nearly $5,600 is spent on idling. The expense of wasted fuel can add up quickly for a large fleet.
To curb the expense and reduce idling, fleet operations can use ELDs to identify which drivers are consistently idling their vehicles. The devices should allow operations to track idling time per driver, allowing fleet managers to confront operators and educate them on the consequences of the behavior.
KeepTruckin.com says that depending on the size of the fleet, a reduction of 30 percent in idling time can save up to $78,000 in fuel costs.
Monitor Driver Behaviors
In addition to tracking drivers’ hours of service, ELDs can monitor several more of their behaviors. The devices can track hard braking, excessive acceleration and hard cornering, according to KeepTruckin.com.
ELDs can also ensure drivers are taking the appropriate number of breaks to prevent fatigue while behind the wheel.
Identifying these behaviors will help fleet operations identify risky drivers and provide them with necessary training to make them safer behind the wheel.
Utilize Vehicle Diagnostic Reports
ELDs can help operations diagnose issues with vehicles. According to FleetOwner.com, the devices can capture data on a vehicle’s “performance, faults and efficiency.” The website states this can include vehicle fault management and maintenance and vehicle fuel efficiency.
This can enable operations to diagnose problems early before they lead to larger issues.
Track Driver Productivity
ELDs allow fleet operations to track driver productivity. According to FreightWaves.com, the devices can track how long routes take to complete and how productive each driver, truck and trailer is.
To learn how RTA Fleet Management Software can help you manage your data, contact us today to schedule a demo.