Tag: long haul

mandate, eld, transport, trucking, fleet

The Mandate Is Coming: The Additional Details You Need To Know About ELDs

Posted on | by Victoria Gole | Leave a Comment on The Mandate Is Coming: The Additional Details You Need To Know About ELDs

As many fleets in the long-haul transportation sector know, Transport Canada’s ELD Mandate is quickly approaching and will require countless vehicle-based businesses to transition to electronic logging devices (ELDs). As there will be penalties for fleets who do not use these devices, fleets are forced to update their paper logbooks. While there is basic training related to how to properly use ELDs, fleet managers must also become familiar with additional ELD information to properly abide to hours-of-service (HOS) regulations. 

Widely Known Benefits Of ELDs 

When electronic logging devices are purchased and implemented, many fleets are made aware of basic benefits. Before the mandate, it is important to review the benefits and ensure you are aware of how to see the results. Typically, fleets can see: 

  • Accurate logging for HOS as ELDs read the odometer and monitor the engine to collect various data to make sure drivers and managers abide by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations 
  • Prevention of driver fatigue since drivers won’t be overworking – accurate logs will ensure  drivers are not over-driving
  • Increased public safety as a result of decreased driver fatigue and overworking 
  • Improved data collection when investigating driving incidents as officials can use information gathered from the ELDs to rule out theories to why a driving event occurred
  • Reduced tampering of company tools or devices as the ELDs approved by the FMCSA are tamper proof and automatically display HOS

 

Additional Information About ELDs That Fleets Can’t Go Without 

While the above information is great, the Transportation Compliance Specialists at GoFleet have concluded that there is more to know. Without knowing such information, fleets may run into issues or continue to miss out on fully leveraging their devices. As a result, we believe the following is critical to know: 

  • Fraudulent changes to logs are actively stopped as FMCSA regulations limit what edits can be done (even with fleet manager access) – in addition, logs cannot be switched between drivers.
  • Crossing the border will require drivers to adjust their device to display the country they are in. This will allow the ELD to automatically update to follow the regulatory frameworks of the country that they are in. Drivers are still recommended to review the regulations of the country they are about to enter, before crossing the border, so that they are not caught off guard.
  • Even though the chances that the ELD will fail are low, drivers are allowed to revert back to paper logging if the ELD malfunctions. In case the ELD does fail, they can easily prove to officers that the tablet malfunctioned and the data was unable to transfer. 
  • Tampering with the device is easily detectible as ELDs do not only record HOS but whether the vehicle is in movement or not. 
  • Electronic logging devices must be accredited by a 3rd party certification body who is certified under the FMCSA – self certification is not allowed.

 

Properly Educating Drivers About The Mandate 

It is not enough to only have fleet managers knowledgably about the incoming ELD mandates. Fleet drivers must be properly trained in everything that we have discussed.  

From the standard operating procedures of using the electronic logging device to being aware of how devices are pre-designed to reduce improper utilization, drivers must undergo proper training. It is therefore mission-critical for training courses to be created and assigned in a timely manner for drivers, so that they can be acquainted with the mandates that are being enforced. 

To assist with this, ZenduLearn is the perfect application that can help create, deploy, and track personalized learning and training. 

With the ELD Mandate approaching in a matter of months, Canadian fleets must prepare and train their drivers. To learn more about how your vehicle-based business can further prepare for the incoming mandate, contact us today to speak with one of our Transportation Compliance Specialists. 

Utilisation of Your Tech Stack

Maximize Your Existing Tech Stack To Get Ahead In 2021

Posted on | by Victoria Gole | Leave a Comment on Maximize Your Existing Tech Stack To Get Ahead In 2021

As businesses round up the year, it’s the perfect time for teams to perform a review of business operations. This allows management to see what processes and projects are working towards their long-term goals and how their finances stack up. When it comes to fleets, the process is no different. However, in addition to reviewing processes and projects, it’s critical for fleets to see how they can utilize their existing tech stack to help them further get ahead.

 

2020 Overview: Adjusting To A New Normal 

2020 was a unique year. For many, it was the first time they truly expected industry uncertainty and long-haul transporters definitely went through a moment of change. As regulations, demand and driver processes were adjusted, with the right driver and utilization of tools, teams were able to power through it. 

For nearly all fleets, 2020 caused operations to change by increasing health and safety protocols, PPE and more. Some fleets also decided to put attention towards their current processes and technologies within their fleet by focusing on using performance or finance boosting tools. Some found this easy to do as they leveraged their existing tech stack. 

As a result, leveraging existing tech stacks is a critical recommendation for all long-haul transporters, to help them get ahead in 2021.

 

Leveraging Telematics And Connected Networks Already In Place 

Nearly all fleets are already digitally connected by some form of a GPS or fleet tracking device to optimize routing, complete routes efficiently and to monitor hours-of-service (HOS) or driving times. 

When looking to maximize existing tech stacks, it’s important for fleets to leverage these already in place networks that connect to already installed hardware. Doing so will immediately increase route completion performance. 

One advantage is to leverage bypass programs that require no hardware as installation is digital. Regardless of where vehicles are, operations can change for the better almost immediately. During a time where social distancing and PPE measures are heightened, this is a major benefit. 

 

Leveraging A Tech Stack With GO9 Devices  

Fleets that are fitted with Geotab GO9 fleet trackers are used for several reasons including GPS tracking, HOS tracking and engine diagnostics. These already in use devices can also leverage the connected network it relies – by installing the unique Drivewyze Weigh Station Bypass Program fleets can truly meet global expansion dreams. 

While Drivewyze did not invent the weigh station bypass program, they did modernize it. By leveraging relationships and connected networks, they were able to implement a program where over 47 states and provinces allowed them to operate by using the safety scores of fleets, as well as other credentials, to allow vehicles to have a green light to pass and not have to pull into weigh stations. 

 

A New Efficiency Tool: Hardware-Free Weigh Station Bypass Programs 

A weigh station bypass program works by using vehicle GPS location data from a GO9 device in correlation to the GPS location of weigh stations, as well as unique weigh in motion scales strategically embedded in highways prior to a station. If a weigh station is participating in the program, the vehicle will have their fleet information and weight calculated from the motion scales automatically and this data will be cross referenced against screening rules to determine whether they are required to pull in. Typical screening rules include: 

  • Fleet safety score
  • Weight of vehicle while approaching station 
  • IFTA payment completion 

Many fleets find that they are authorized to pass stations approximately 98% of the time, immediately resulting in saving resources and time. In fact, most fleets report approvals of preclearance more often than not and notice a near immediate ROI when a truck receives just one or two bypasses a month. For drivers who find they are held up at weigh stations this is a game changer. 

 

Weigh Station Bypass Programs In Real Life 

Over the last year, weigh station bypass programs have thrived as they have been leveraged by fleets to streamline workflows when it comes to driver delivery times. When speaking to Drivewyze’s Weigh Station Bypass Program, they remained agile when encountered with recent pandemic restrictions. 

 

The COVID-19 Shutdown 

During the COVID-19 pandemic many cities and countries shut down for a period of time, resulting in various businesses being closed or services being halted. For long haul trucking, it was felt most as several truck rest stops and weigh stations were closed for a short period of time. As a result, many drivers were unsure of where they could safely stop to rest so resources were overused and HOS records were affected, as they drove around looking for a safe place to stop.

To help long haul fleets, Drivewyze accelerated their development of new features to automatically allow their systems to monitor the location of open rest stops and even provide data on their capacity level.

 

Becoming Part Of A Response Plan 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many offices were instructed to enforce remote working options when possible. For some fleets, as part of their response plan, they took this time to proactively work towards upgrading their fleets by enrolling them into a bypass program. Because the program is completely digital and is free of hardware installation, the implementation of Drivewyze’s program was able to happen instantly. This resulted in improving operational efficiencies and social distancing measures as they did not have to pull off the highway into a weigh station.

After this unexpected year that many fleets have had, it’s hard to tell how 2021 will be. It’s critical for long haul fleets of all sizes to do what they can to elevate their existing tech stack to help them remain successful in the new year.

To learn how weigh station bypass could benefit your fleet, speak with one of our long-haul transportation specialists about receiving a Weigh Station Analytics report to see exactly how much time and money your fleet could save, or inquire about a free trial to experience the service in-cab.

 

Written by: Victoria Gole, Marketing, Branding & Communications Specialist at GoFleet

Contributions by: Doug Johnson, VP of Marketing at Drivewyze

Trucking With Pets

Trucking With Pets: What Fleets Need To Know

Posted on | by Victoria Gole | Leave a Comment on Trucking With Pets: What Fleets Need To Know

Long haul trucking is often perceived as a lonely job as commercial truck drivers drive long hours to deliver goods over the course of hours, days or even weeks. With the monotony and morale being important concerns, many fleets are looking at how they can make long haul trucking a little more enjoyable. One of the best ways to alleviate these concerns is trucking with pets.   

With a multitude of benefits, nearly 40% of long haul commercial motor vehicle drivers are already taking pets with them on the road. This growing trend is something fleet businesses are continuing to review.

 

Fleet Pet Policy

Whether you’re a fleet owner or driver, it’s important to review current policies when looking into drivers bringing pets on the road with them. On one hand, fleets must readjust their policies to reflect new values, and on the other hand, fleet companies have not clarified their positions on whether bringing pets would be welcomed. Fleet businesses must constantly review policies, including old and outdated ones, and better adapt to the constantly changing needs of their employees. 

 

 Old or Outdated Pet Policy 

If your fleet has a pet policy but the language is outdated, it’s important to address it and make the necessary policy modifications. Companies should ensure that old policies do not conflict with new values. Updating the policy on pet companionship in fleets will help companies specifically clarify their position and what is encouraged throughout the company. 

It is critical that your policies reflect the current values of your fleet and adapt to changing needs.

 

No Pet Policy 

If there is currently no pet policy – it’s time to make one! While some fleets may be strict about not allowing pets to travel with drivers, many are open to it. 

If your fleet is looking to enforce a new pet policy to allow trucking with pets – there are a few things to consider:

  1. What are the associated fees for bringing a pet along for the ride may be? Typically, fleets require drivers to provide a $200 – $1,500 deposit for insurance in case there are any damages to company property, which includes damages to vehicles, equipment, cargo etc. 
  2. Whether there is a maximum pet weight limit, breed or type for animals, drivers can travel with. Typically, fleets set a weight limit between 25 and 35 pounds, which engenders a variety of common breeds such as dachshunds, pugs, terriers, chihuahuas and more.
  3. The completion of an internal training course to review all aspects of bringing a pet on the road. The course will cover what are the best practices to follow with your travelling pet, how to set up your vehicle to support an animal and proper health requirements of animals.

 

Benefits Of Trucking With Pets 

For fleets who encourage drivers to bring their pets along for the ride, there are a multitude of benefits that are associated with having pets travel with their owners.

Fleets can expect for drivers to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and better overall cardiovascular health, as studies show that having a pet companion can improve health. Drivers can also stay active and reach health goals as they will be required to take daily 20-30 minute walks – which is perfect for truck stop breaks! 

Medical professionals even claim that driving with an animal can reduce stress and anxiety levels as well as provide drivers with a better outlook on life. Since they have a companion on long isolated trips, drivers are less at risk for thinking or feeling negative. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology states that pet owners reported fewer doctor visits than non-pet owners. Meaning fleets can even expect healthier drivers, which results in less sick days.

Pets can also reduce fatigue driving and accidents, which are related to driving tired. This is because animals will require drivers to frequently pull over to allow the animal to relieve themselves and stretch their legs. Furthermore, having pets on board can even deter potential theft.

With an estimated 3.5 million truck drivers on U.S. roads, fleets cannot afford to overlook the benefits that trucking with pets drives. 

 

What Drivers Need To Be Aware Of 

Checking your fleets pet policy isn’t the only factor that drivers need to consider. Apart from checking with management, drivers should ensure the following: 

  • Their pet fits the proper pet sizing to travel comfortably with them
  • The vehicle is pet-proofed with a separate space set aside for the animals call their own 
  • Tools and/or equipment such as; a crate, leash, pet bed, various toys, animal cleaning supplies, adequate food and treats
  • The animal is properly trained be comfortable with being in a moving vehicle, while the driver is focused on the road, and is well socialized
  • The animal is up to date with vaccinations and drivers are up to date and/or researched veterinary inspection laws, as they vary from state to state 

 

What Fleet Managers Need To Know 

Changing the policy speaking to pet companions may seem fun and exciting, but management must take the proper steps to keep the drivers, organization and animals happy. While this includes refining pet policies, fleet managers should also consider the following: 

  • What should be included in company training material pertaining to travelling with pets? 
  • Whether drivers would be accepted to register pets as a service or companion animal to ensure animals are never left unattended for too long (this is specific to in-store visits)?
  • What are the possible legal ramifications if there is an accident where the animal is hurt, if the animal caused the accident or if the animal hurt someone? 

With all policy shifts, there are pros and cons. When it comes to the growing trend of trucking with pets, more fleets are realizing that new policies should reflect current values.

If you’re looking for more insight about how you can create the proper training course to ensure drivers are trained on new trucking with pets policies contact us today! Our online training platform ZenduLearn is a customizable training solution that can accompany any training topics specific to your fleet.

Now Scheduled: CVSA’s International Roadcheck

Posted on | by Victoria Gole | Leave a Comment on Now Scheduled: CVSA’s International Roadcheck

On August 10, 2020, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) announced that their International Roadcheck is rescheduled. The new date announced was September 9 – 11, 2020. Since this date is quickly approaching, it is critical for all commercial vehicles on the road to reassess and ensure compliance with federal regulations.   

As many fleets are just beginning to return to near normal productivity or are just returning to the road after pausing work after the COVID-19 pandemic, compliance must remain a priority.

 

What Is The CVSA’s International Roadcheck

The International Roadcheck is a thorough inspection of commercial vehicles on the road. These inspections are conducted over a 72-hour high-volume period and enforcement is conducted by inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. Inspections will be conducted in a variety of settings – in mobile patrols, at fixed locations and weight, or at inspection stations.

 

What Will Be Checked? 

In Canada, law enforcement personnel will conduct motor vehicle and driver inspections. They will leverage standard out-of-service criteria in North America, the National Safe Code and other provincial or territorial regulations to note violations to vehicle or driver compliance.

In the U.S. inspections will use Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations in addition to rules and regulations that are applicable to the commercial motor vehicle sector.

Similarly, in Mexico inspections will review regulations and standards set by the Mexican government. 

It is important to note that inspections will review driver and vehicle compliance. For more information review this note released by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance: https://www.cvsa.org/news-entry/2020-rescheduled-roadcheck/

 

How To Prepare: 

While this is not a complete list, here are some important reminders for drivers to have easily accessible while on the road: 

  •         Have ELD documentation ready with a proper understanding of how to display it 
  •         Ensure there are blank paper logs available within the vehicle (it is recommended to have at least eight days worth)
  •         Have any and all malfunctions properly notes 
  •         Ensure unassigned driving time is annotated or claimed 
  •         Wear seat belts 
  •         Remain professional with inspectors
  •         Keep vehicles clean and tidy 

Drivers should also have their driver’s license, skill performance evaluation certificate, medical examiners certificate, driver’s record of duty status, as well as any other supporting documentation that may be relevant.

Looking for more information on how to keep your fleet compliance to strict industry standards? Contact us today – we’re trained and experienced in finding effective solutions to target nearly any need.