The impending telematics takedown

June 30, 2017
Six months to go for the new ELD (Electronic Logging Device) rule to take effect.

Six months to go for the new ELD (Electronic Logging Device) rule to take effect. Some of you may be able to wait until 2019 to get a fully compliant device, because you’ve already been using some sort of device.

What can I say that has not already been said? BEWARE! Today, there are the old stalwarts of the industry, the companies that have been pursuing this space for the last few years, and the new startups that see great potential. The latter group may entice you with extremely low costs for standalone devices. BEWARE!

I tell people that FREE is a 4-letter acronym meaning Find Revenue Everywhere Else. No company can survive without a steady stream of incoming revenue. In just a couple of years, the market for new hardware will dry up fast. When that happens, companies will need some sort of subscription revenue to stay in business. If you purchase a standalone product today, you may never be able to get it replaced in the future if it fails. In just a few years, I predict there will be a number of ELD companies that go out of business, and others that get sold to the more established businesses. Some will sell at ridiculously high valuations, while others will be bought at fire-sale prices.

Whether you are an owner-operator with 1-5 tractors, or a Top-100 Truckload Carrier, think through your decision today. Don’t just focus on the here-and-now, selecting the cheapest solution. What do you want to be doing with your ELD in 2020? Consider the impending telematics takedown that will occur as the market for ELDs matures quickly.

Sponsored Recommendations

Heavy-Duty Maintenance Checklist

A maintenance checklist can help ensure you hit everything necessary during an inspection. Check out our free downloadable checklist to help streamline your repairs.

Five Ways a Little Data Can Save Your Company Millions

While most trucking and logistics companies rely on cellular to keep their work fleet connected, satellite has the ability to connect anywhere and through small data transmission...

Fleet Case Study: 15% YOY Growth for ITDS

Learn how this small trucking company scaled significantly and maintained outstanding customer service without adding additional people. Sylectus TMS can automate operations and...

Unlocking Fleet Safety & Efficiency: The Managed Service Advantage

Want to boost your fleet's safety and efficiency? Tune in now to discover the power of Managed Services in optimizing your safety program, streamlining operations, and making ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!