Electronic logging devices (ELDs) have become an indispensable tool for transport businesses of all sizes. The ability to effectively manage hours of service and ensure regulatory compliance has become integral to operational efficiency.
Our curated list of the top ELD providers for trucks merges the best of technology, customer service, and reliability. Discover the trucker ELD providers setting the pace in providing robust, user-friendly solutions tailored to meet diverse industry needs.
And when you’re finished reading, check out the other articles in our ‘All about ELDs’ series:
- What is the ELD Mandate?
- What happens if you unplug your ELD?
- ELD exemptions: What you need to know
- 6 best trucker ELD providers
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Quicklook: Best trucker ELD providers
- Best ELD for hotshot trucks: Samsara
- Best ELD for owner operators: Konexial
- Best ELD for fleet management: Trimble
- Best ELD for small fleets: Motive
- Best ELD for large fleets: Verizon Connect
- Best ELD for no monthly subscription: Garmin eLog Compliant ELD
6 best trucker ELD providers
The best ELD for truckers should excel in ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing fleet management. The following providers of electronic driving logs set the standard in providing robust, reliable, and easy-to-use ELD solutions for various business needs.
Samsara
Samsara’s ELD offers many features that hotshot drivers subject to ELD regulations appreciate. It’s one of the most reliable devices on the market, even in areas with limited connectivity. In fact, drivers can use the device as a Wi-Fi hotspot. With easy installation, getting started with Samsara is simple for fleet managers and owner-operators of any skill or ability level.
Best for: Hotshot trucking
Benefits
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Routing and dispatching
- Engine diagnostics and fault codes
- Violation alerts and RODS visibility
- Driver behavior reporting
- Fuel tracking
- Optional dashcams
Disadvantages
- Frequent software updates
- Onboard diagnostics (OBD)-only port
Pricing: Customized quote after free demo
Konexial
Konexial’s MY20 ELD software integrates seamlessly with your Apple or Android device. The app is easy to download and very user-friendly. This is the perfect device for independent drivers who need to keep track of their information and have it readily available for DOT audits. With value-adding capabilities like in-app point-of-interest mapping and user reviews, Konexial is one of the best eld devices for owner operators wanting to enjoy the sights as they travel.
Best for: Owner operators
Benefits
- Simple installation
- Excellent privacy and security
- Route mapping and navigation
- Supports all ELD documents
- App compatible with iOS and Android
Disadvantages
- Delayed connection
- Short battery life
- Pricey subscription cost
Pricing
- $149 to $219 for hardware
- $35 to $150 per month for subscription
- $300 to $600 per year for subscription
Trimble
Trimble ELD offers tools to help fleet managers oversee all aspects of their business. You’ll find solid technology backed by a responsive customer service team. But all that comes with a higher price tag than many of its competitors. The technology is reliable and will serve your fleet for many years to come. It has user-friendly technology and provides full ELD mandate compliance. You can use it to monitor the safety of your drivers by reviewing their behavior and providing feedback.
Best for: Fleet management
Benefits
- Track vehicles with real-time location data
- Reduce driver error with live tracking and feedback
- IFTA fuel tax data
- Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIR)
- Fuel use reporting and analysis
- Engine status reports
Disadvantages
- Expensive upfront hardware costs
- Relatively complicated installation
Pricing: $1,200 upfront for hardware with plans starting at $43 per month
Motive
The Motive ELD is one of the best ELD devices for small fleets because it’s so easy to use. Motive simplifies the process of tracking, managing, and sharing hours of service data, reducing administrative burden. Drivers for small fleets with limited resources and personnel can benefit from Motive’s intuitive ELD interface, which requires less training time, enhances productivity, and efficiently ensures regulatory compliance.
Best for: Small fleets
Benefits
- Reduced fuel wastage
- Vehicle diagnostics
- Reduced liabilities
- Location tracking
- Better route management
- HOS alerts
- Quality customer service
Disadvantages
- No international integration
- Annotation notes for edits are difficult for some
- Each driver needs a smart device
Pricing: Request a custom quote
Verizon Connect
Verizon Connect offers a device that’s excellent for compliance, driver safety and back-office use. Add it to any fleet management system platform (FMS) to build the technology combination that works best for your company. By integrating Verizon Connect’s device into your existing FMS, you can maximize efficiency and streamline operations to drive greater success for your company.
Best for: Large fleets
Benefits
- Live maps
- Geofencing
- Field service and tracking add-on options
- HOS driver notifications
- Simple dashboard for administrators
- Customer support over the phone or online
- Access webinars and online training to get started
- Use driver smartphones to reduce upfront hardware display screen costs
- DVIR to help forecast maintenance and reduce breakdowns
Disadvantages
- Pricing not transparent
- Sales process somewhat intimidating for smaller fleets
- Not a fast compliance solution because of the sales process
Pricing: Only provided via customized quote
Garmin
Garmin provides owner-operators with an ELD that does not require an ongoing monthly subscription service. Instead, the Garmin eLog Compliant ELD device only requires the up front hardware fees, then you’re set. It makes tracking your HOS simple and affordable, without the worry of having to commit to monthly subscription plans.
Best for: No monthly subscription
Benefits
- Reliable name brand
- No monthly subscriptions
- 24/7 customer support
- Automated recording of HOS
Disadvantages
- No IFTA reporting
- Limited functionality
- Not compatible with OBDII
Pricing: $249.99
What is an electronic logging device for truckers?
So, exactly what is an ELD platform? It’s a digital solution primarily used by commercial motor vehicles, like trucks, to automatically record their driving time and ensure compliance with hours of service rules. Often referred to as ‘electronic logs,’ ‘electronic driver logs,’ or ‘e logs,’ these devices sync with the vehicle’s engine to accurately capture driving time, miles driven, and engine hours.
ELDs for trucks have become indispensable in the freight logistics industry, with numerous ELD companies offering various models and services. ELD devices for trucks range from those designed for large fleets to those tailored for owner-operators and small fleets.
Choosing the best ELD for trucks depends on the specific needs of the trucking operation. Some factors to consider include the size of the fleet, whether the company is a hotshot business, an owner-operator, or manages box trucks, and which features are most important.
It’s worth exploring the FMCSA list of registered ELD providers to ensure the chosen device complies with all regulations. Keep in mind that top ELD service providers all vie to offer the best ELD devices for trucks by delivering value-adding features beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements.
Find the best ELD for trucking to meet your needs
Regardless of whether you’re an owner-operator, part of a small fleet, or run a large trucking company, there’s an abundance of options out there. Get started on your search for top ELD companies by comparing the entries on this best ELD providers list today.
FAQ
How does an electronic logging device for trucks work?
An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) for trucks works by syncing directly with the vehicle’s engine control module to automatically record precise data such as driving time, miles driven, and engine hours. This device replaces traditional paper logs, accurately tracking and managing hours of service to ensure regulatory compliance while also providing data to enhance fleet management and operational efficiency.
What is ELD compliance?
ELD compliance refers to adherence to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in the U.S., requiring the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) by commercial drivers to record their hours of service. Compliance ensures that drivers are maintaining proper rest periods and not exceeding maximum allowed driving hours, thereby promoting safer working conditions and more accurate record-keeping.
What is the ELD Mandate?
The ELD Mandate is a regulation issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in the U.S. that requires most commercial drivers to use an electronic logging device (ELD) to record their hours of service. Implemented to improve road safety and ensure proper rest for drivers, the mandate effectively replaces manual paper logbooks and has been in full effect since December 2019.
