The affected ELDs are:

• Ontime Logs PT – model OTL100; ELD identifier c3ac23; provider Ontime Logs Inc.
• Green Light ELD – model PT30, IOSiX; ELD identifier GLEHOS; provider Green Light ELD LLC
• Sahara ELD – model GDELD1000; ELD identifier SAHELD; provider Sahara ELD LLC
• US FAST ELD – model USFASTELD1; ELD identifier UFE021; provider US FAST ELD
• ELDWISE – model EWS; ELD identifier EWS092; provider NextParse LLC (formerly ELDWISE)

According to FMCSA, these devices no longer meet the minimum requirements outlined in Title 49 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of Part 395.

If you’re currently using one of the affected devices, here’s what you need to do:

1. Stop using the revoked ELD immediately. Switch to paper logs or compliant logging software to record your hours of service.
2. Replace the device with a registered ELD before January 20, 2026, to stay in compliance.

Staying on top of ELD compliance is crucial. Using an unapproved device can lead to violations during inspections and put your hours of service records at risk. Make sure your replacement device is fully compliant and on the FMCSA’s approved list.

Source: The Trucker

The post FMCSA Pulls 5 ELDs from Approved Device List: What Truckers Need to Know appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Why Choose a Brand-New Semi-Truck?

1. Dependability and Warranty Coverage

New trucks come with unmatched reliability, thanks to factory warranties. These warranties can cover unforeseen breakdowns and repair costs, especially in the initial years. Coupled with brand-new components and thorough quality checks, a new truck ensures you stay on the road with fewer interruptions.

2. Fuel Efficiency That Saves You Big

Modern trucks prioritize fuel economy with advanced engines and aerodynamic designs. With diesel prices often fluctuating, these improvements translate to long-term savings at the pump, benefiting both your wallet and your environmental footprint.

3. Enhanced Safety and Driver Comfort

The latest semi-trucks are packed with cutting-edge features like collision mitigation systems, lane-keeping assistance, and integrated telematics. These technological advancements not only enhance safety but also boost driver comfort—a must for long hauls.

Challenges of Buying a New Truck

• High Price Tag: New semi-trucks often cost over $150,000, making them a significant upfront investment.

• Rapid Depreciation: New vehicles lose the most value in their first few years, which can impact resale value.

Why Opt for a Pre-Owned Semi-Truck?

1. Lower Upfront Costs

Purchasing a used semi-truck can significantly reduce the initial cost. This makes it an appealing choice for newcomers to the industry or fleet owners looking to expand without overextending their budget.

2. Minimized Depreciation

Since used trucks have already taken the biggest hit in value, they tend to maintain their worth more consistently over time. This slower rate of depreciation gives you more financial flexibility down the road.

3. Proven Performance

A well-maintained used semi-truck can cover thousands of reliable miles. By carefully reviewing maintenance records and conducting thorough inspections, you can confidently find a durable vehicle that meets your needs.

Challenges of Buying Used

• Higher Maintenance Costs: Older trucks often require more frequent repairs, which can add to your total investment.

• No Warranty: Used semi-trucks typically lack warranty protection, leaving you responsible for unexpected repair bills.

Key Trends Influencing Your Truck Purchase

1. Compliance with Environmental Standards

With stricter emissions regulations being adopted across states, especially for diesel engines, it’s essential to ensure your truck—whether new or used—complies with local laws. Failing to meet these requirements could result in hefty fines or restricted access to specific routes.

2. Rising Demand for Electric and Alternative Fuel Options

The trucking industry is steadily transitioning to electric and alternative-fuel-powered trucks. While many of these vehicles offer long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, they come with higher upfront costs. Evaluate whether your business can benefit from this forward-looking investment.

3. Cutting-Edge Technology

Modern trucks boast advanced diagnostics, fleet management tools, and real-time tracking systems. While used models might not include these features, many can be retrofitted with modern technology to bring them up to speed.

How to Make the Right Decision for Your Needs

Choosing between a new or used semi-truck depends on your budget, priorities, and operating strategy. Consider these questions when making your decision:

• Can I comfortably manage the larger upfront cost of a new truck, or would a used model better fit my financial situation?

• Am I willing to tackle higher maintenance needs with a used truck, or do I prefer the reassurance that comes with a new vehicle’s warranty?

• Do I need state-of-the-art fuel efficiency and safety features, or can I achieve my goals with a well-maintained older truck?

Both new and used semi-trucks have distinct benefits and trade-offs. Whether you choose the reliability and features of a new model or the affordability and steady value of a used truck, the key is to thoroughly research your options. Consult industry professionals for advice and take the time to weigh your priorities.

The post New or Used Semi-Trucks: What’s the Best Choice for You? appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

On Monday, November 18, FMCSA revealed that the Keep Tracking, Rollingtrans ELD – ACCURATE ONE, and Rollingtrans ELD Plus – ACCURATE PLUS had been removed from their roster of sanctioned devices.

The removal was due to these ELDs not complying with the minimum standards outlined in 49 CFR part 395, subpart B, appendix A. Specifically, this regulation mandates that “an ELD without a printer be designed so that the display may be reasonably viewed by an authorized safety official without (the official) entering the commercial motor vehicle.”

Truck operators using any of the three disapproved ELDs have until January 17, 2025, to replace these devices with compliant alternatives. Failure to do so will leave them with a “no record-of-duty status” and result in being placed out of service.

Until the deadline, carriers relying on the now-invalidated ELDs should revert to “using paper logs or logging software” to document their hours-of-service data. FMCSA also advised that, in the interim, “safety officials are encouraged not to cite drivers using these revoked ELDs” for lacking a registered device or having no record-of-duty status.

Should the ELD providers rectify all the noted shortcomings, the devices can potentially return to the approved list. However, FMCSA notes that such corrections are infrequent, urging motor carriers to proactively “take the actions listed above now to avoid compliance issues in the event that the deficiencies are not addressed by the ELD providers.”

To date, FMCSA has revoked 14 ELDs this year for similar reasons. Among these, only one device has regained approval.

Presently, there are 1,018 devices on the FMCSA’s Registered ELDs list, all self-certified by their manufacturers to meet federal requirements. While FMCSA doesn’t officially endorse these devices, the current certification process has led to challenges for carriers in maintaining compliance.

In November 2022, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association urged the FMCSA to develop a robust certification system for ELDs, stating that the existing self-certification process has proven a “major disservice to motor carriers.”

Beyond self-certification, FMCSA permits ELD manufacturers to “self-revoke” non-compliant devices. Currently, there are 242 ELDs on the revoked list; out of these, only 31 were directly removed by FMCSA, with the rest categorized as “self-revoked.”

Source: Land Line

The post Three ELDs Removed from FMCSA’s Approved List appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

U.S. Inspection Highlights

In the United States alone, CVSA-certified inspectors conducted 42,332 inspections, identifying 11,675 vehicle violations, 2,619 driver violations, and 140 hazmat infractions. The inspections resulted in 7,930 vehicles (23.2%) and 2,151 drivers (5.1%) being taken out of service. The most common vehicle violation was related to faulty brakes, tallying up to 3,093 cases, while the primary driver violation involved hours of service, with 845 instances recorded. Loading issues led the hazmat violations at 60 entries.

Special Focus Areas

This year’s Roadcheck placed particular emphasis on certain vehicle and driver aspects. The vehicle checks focused on tractor protection systems, covering components like the tractor protection valve and the anti-bleed-back valve. These systems are critical as they secure the tractor’s air supply, preventing air loss when not connected to a trailer or in case of trailer detachment. A total of 564 violations related to these systems were found.

The driver checks targeted alcohol and controlled-substance possession, leading to 78 drug-related and 26 alcohol-related out-of-service violations across North America. Additionally, 63 U.S. drivers were found operating vehicles despite being listed in the FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, which tracks drivers who violate substance regulations. Another 535 violations were issued for not using safety belts.

Hazardous Materials Violations

Across North America, there were 163 out-of-service violations related to hazardous materials during the 72-hour inspection event, with loading being the most common issue.

These findings underscore the ongoing need for rigorous safety inspections and adherence to regulations to ensure the safety and compliance of commercial motor vehicle operations.

Source: Truckers News

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