The Impact Of Electronic On Board Recorders (EOBR)

Sure, you have to give credit to OOIDA for fighting the good fight, but take one look at the regulatory framework we have to deal with, and can you say that they've been effective? (Look at the 2x 1a-5a provisions of the reset and the 30min/8hr rest break provisions before you answer.) Fighting EOBR's is like Don Quixote tilting at windmills, it is truly the sound and fury signifying nothing.

Not sure why it's so hard to get across that the problem is the regulation NOT the tool used to measure compliance, but so many are intent on demonizing EOBRs as evil incarnate that they're blind to the root cause of the problem. It's the regulations! Until we figure that out, the EOBR Trojan Horse will continue to divert attention and resources from what really matters.

 

that's awesome!

 

So then you agree EOBRs mandate is not any better than paper. Thank you for finally stating that. That is the same exact point we all have been trying to get across. If the hos regulations were better than they are there would be no need for the E-log tool. Great now we are all on the same page, Right?

 

So then you agree paper is not any better than EOBR logging. Thank you for finally stating that. That is the same exact point we all have been trying to get across.

We're not on the same page to the extent that you're arguing that 12 inches is different if you measure it with a ruler versus a tape measure.

 

Aaaahhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!

 

Well considering I as a business owner would prefer to buy my $2 paper logbook and a ink pen for another $1.79 and do the same thing as an E-log. Paper was around prior to E-log so why not just stick to paper. Its more time efficient while logging, I can do my weekly paperwork just as quick as I am not in a hurry to begin with, Its my choice as a business owner. I would highly disagree with you that paper is no better then E-logs. You agree that there isn't a difference as long as you run legal. Well I run legal and highly recommend paper as its the cheapest for a business owner. Yes maybe company drivers that don't give two ##### like a computer where you just touch a screen so be it. Keep it. But don't suggest to me that I must use one of your tools.

 

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Improve maybe, like using recycled paper, or buying a better pen that can write in different languages or can tell you when the truck stop just put out fresh coffee lol. That would be kinda cool, just think, you roll through a scale. Officers looking at your paperwork, it's in German or Spanish or something. He asks what the heck? You just replay, dang apple "iPen" is stuck on a different language.... Oh by the way, y'all's coffee is ready".


Anyway haha, on a more serious note, from an independents POV, it seems to be much more cost effective to use paper vs e logs.

 

I'm not suggesting that you have to use anything, but you are only looking at part of the cost of paper logs and missing the big picture. At some point somebody has to extract and compile the data, so the cheap logs become v-e-r-y expensive from a labor standpoint. Welcome to the world of big data.

As a private operator, you may be able to operate out of a shoebox, but most large shippers will only deal with larger carriers who can provide near real-time electronic supply-chain data. Besides, a year from now, unless the US Court of Appeals steps in, the point will be moot, as FMCSA will require EOBRs whether they're more expensive or not. Like 'em or not, between the Fed and the customer sooner or later you're going to have the opportunity to figure out how to be a successful EOBR truck operator.

Sorry about your luck.

 

I see for big companies its easy for them to keep track of their trucks, though our company has GPS units on the truck anyway and know if it moves even when no driver is logged into it.

They can be used for micro management or for macro management. Though some dispatchers like to micro manage. This company is pretty relaxed, if you don't have a delivery appt, then you just deliver when you want. Though you hurt yourself by taking more time on a load rather than getting it there ASAP.

Personally I'd also wished I wasn't governed, but since we go to Canada we have to be I guess. Though that's a completely different discussion