---
title: "ELD (Electronic Logging Device)"
description: "An electronic logging device (ELD) allows truckers to log their hours of service electronically instead of in paper books."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flexport.com/glossary/electronic-logging-device/
lifecycle: live
dateModified: 2026-10-08T14:52:03Z
topics:
  - "Trucking"
---

# ELD (Electronic Logging Device)

An electronic logging device (ELD) allows truckers to log their hours of service electronically instead of in paper books.

## What is the ELD mandate?

The ELD allows truckers to log their hours electronically instead of in paper books.

The [ELD mandate](https://core.flexport.com/help/414-electronic-logging-device-eld-mandate) took effect on December 18th, 2017 and brings the possibility of:

- Higher trucking rates

- Less trucking capacity

- Less trucking flexibility

- Additional charges

## How does an ELD work?

An ELD connects to a truck's engine and records when the engine runs, how far the truck moves, and how long the driver has been on duty. It tracks driving hours automatically, so a driver can't change the record without leaving a trail. In the United States, federal hours-of-service rules limit how many hours a commercial driver can drive and work each day and week, and the ELD helps carriers and inspectors enforce those limits.

For shippers, this means drivers can't stretch a day by driving past their limit. A late pickup or a long wait at the dock can push delivery back by a full day. Give truckers accurate pickup windows and keep loading times short to avoid extra charges.

Back to the [full glossary](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/).

---

*This is a markdown version of [https://www.flexport.com/glossary/electronic-logging-device/](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/electronic-logging-device/) for AI/LLM consumption.*