Elogs on a cellphone app? Legal?

I think it has to be emailed. I think.

A friend of mine used one of the apps last year and I think that's what he did. I don't talk to him much these days. We both got different jobs now.

 

I am checking on that although it may vary from device to device.

For the OP, (and I am not pushing this), but this could be a solution. This is an ELD that connects back to the ECM, but it does not use your data plan, it has it own build in cellular modem. Of course your company will have to be on data plan.

http://www.randmcnally.com/product/dc-200

You will still have to do your logs via your own Electronic device.

Or this that provides the main device for logging still connecting to the ECM.

http://www.randmcnally.com/product/tnd-765

These are just a few of the many many many options out there.

 

We use a cell phone app for now. On one hand its quicker than paper and easier for the person looking after our log files. OTOH I hate it because if it glitches or if you're making a lot of phone calls and the battery dies, you're driving home without a log. I can't wait until we get proper on board elogs TBH.

 

You carry a printer?

 

The jj keller does exactly that. A small box plugs into the ecm port. You use a tablet or cell phone app that contexts to the box via bluetooth. I've been using it since late March with no issues. Well, I've had issues but it was always caused by my own habits developed over 20 years of running paper. It took a few weeks to really get used to it.

Edit to add: and it uses almost no data to send the logs at the end of the day. 25 kb or something similar.

 

This might help breakdown some more about the ELD's if your safety departments are in the gray..

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/faqs

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/eld-manufacturers

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmc...lan_and_Procedures_All_Chapters_11_2_2016.pdf

 

It's complicated...

Where he drives ELDs are approved, but apps are not. However, it appears most enforcement officers are exercising discretion based on the fact that electronic logging (whether ELDs or apps) is a reality and actually makes their lives easier. Since there are no rules for the use of apps, it is really up to the officer.

 

If they can electronically sign then they do not have to print daily logs, if they can electronically sign they must be able to print if so desired by the LEO... another TTR post a driver got a ticket for not being able to print.

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/rulemaking/2014-15951

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/enforcement-partners

Devices with Logging Software Programs

49CFR 395.3, 49CFR 395.5, and 49 CFR 395.8 along with

“Hours of Service for Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers; Regulatory Guidance Concerning Records of Duty Status Generated by Logging Software Programs”

Display and printout required per inspector’s request. Graph grid required.

For devices where RODS have been electronically signed, the driver may display the current and prior 7 consecutive days RODS (if required on those days) on the device’s screen at the time of the inspection.

If an official requests a printout of the RODS, the driver must be given the opportunity to print the current and prior 7 days RODs at roadside.

For devices where RODS cannot be signed electronically, the driver must print the current and prior 7 consecutive days RODS (if required on those days) on the device’s screen at the time of the inspection. The driver must be given the opportunity to print current day RODS at roadside.

(Optional: Fax or email may be provided.)

 

He doesn't drive in the U.S.

 

Ah. I thought he bounced between the US and Canada. I don't know what the rules that apply for Canada