How Electronic Onboard Recorders Pay For Themselves

In a few years, freight companies will be required to incorporate Electronic Onboard Recorders (EOBRs) into all commercial vehicles. Despite initial costs to install these devices into each vehicle and some resistance to such a mandate, these devices actually can save companies money and more than pay for themselves in the long run, according to some supporters of the initiative. Here’s why your company should embrace EOBRs.

Save Money on Paper

Possibly the biggest savings from switching to EOBRs comes from getting rid of traditional logbooks. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the paperwork created by logbooks is the second biggest source of paper waste in the U.S., second only to Federal taxes. The estimated annual savings from doing away with logbooks is around $2 billion, or $688 per driver. So, not only do EOBRs save a significant amount of money spent on paper, they help reduce the amount of paper wasted in the U.S.

Maintain Accurate Records

Another benefit to installing EOBRs is that they automatically and accurately track time. Instead of drivers having to round to the nearest 15 minutes – a stipulation required by logbooks, EOBRs estimate time tracking to the nearest minute. This improvement can sometimes allow drivers up to 10 extra hours a week on the road.

Reduces the Chance for Human Error

This goes along with the above section. Drivers no longer have to worry about calculating hours or submitting forms correctly because EOBRs do it for them. These systems can also help when being questioned by enforcement officers suspecting drivers of driving past the required stop time. An officer can simply check the EOBR to make sure the driver is taking the time off he needs. This reduces the chances of drivers or companies receiving violations due to incorrect logbooks.

Save Time

EOBRs make it possible for drivers to spend more time driving and less time managing a logbook or checking in at designated stations. Drivers can save around 15 minutes a day by switching from using a logbook to utilizing EOBRs, which translates to more time spent on the road. EOBR units come with a range of other time-saving options, including information on loading and unloading delays, route mapping features, fuel and speed calculations and GPS tracking.

Don’t let the initial price of EOBRs scare you into thinking the business is going bankrupt when you have to install these devices. In reality, they’ll increase savings, efficiency and production. And when drivers spend less time keeping a logbook, they have more time to get your products to customers and other businesses.