In the trucking industry, there are many rules and regulations that need to be followed in order to keep operations running smoothly. For years, truckers have been required to keep handwritten logs of their hours behind the wheel. This process is time-consuming and can often lead to mistakes. With the advent of electronic logging devices (ELDs), however, these tasks can be streamlined. ELDs provide a number of benefits for businesses in the trucking industry, which can translate into increased profits. Here we will discuss some of the ways that ELDs can improve your bottom line.
Simplicity
Because ELDs are electronic, the information that is collected from them is more reliable and less likely to contain errors. Human beings have a hard time tracking their own hours when they have to keep track of a paper logbook in addition to navigating the roads.
On the other hand, because ELD devices are automated, drivers can focus on driving and not have to worry about keeping their logs up to date.
Integrating data
By having drivers use a device that automatically records their hours, businesses across the board become more efficient. Companies will no longer have to spend time and money collecting paper logs from drivers and reconciling them with the information they receive from dispatchers.
Instead, all of this data can be stored on an ELD device that is easily accessed from a central server. In fact, many devices will even allow dispatchers and managers to have access to the information they need through their smartphones or tablets.
It can reduce risk
It can be difficult for businesses to accurately track how much time drivers spend behind the wheel each day in order to maintain compliance with government regulations. With devices, however, this information is readily available and can be easily turned in if necessary.
This makes it easier for underperforming drivers to be weeded out and for overworked drivers to understand how much time they need to take off of the road. This not only leads to less risk on the roads but also helps companies boost their bottom line.
Reducing costs
Because ELDs take much of the burden off of company staff, there are fewer costs associated with getting drivers from Point A to Point B. Drivers can spend more time on the road, and companies don’t need to pay for as many administrative hours in order to maintain compliance. This leads to a drop in overhead that can be put right back into the company.
Boosting margins
The time and cost savings experienced by businesses after transitioning to an ELD will often lead to higher profits. Because fewer resources are required for recordkeeping, this alleviates the pressure on budgets throughout organizations. These resources can then be dedicated to other initiatives that fuel growth or improve customer service levels.
The best trucking companies are using ELDs to improve their bottom lines, so you should consider investing in one if this technology appeals to you. By streamlining your company’s operations and increasing productivity, you can be sure that your business runs smoothly from beginning to end and boosts margins.
