Introduction
Transportation companies strive to protect the interests of drivers and trucks using electronic logging devices (ELD). The mandatory use of these devices has led to a discussion of the implications for the freight transportation industry. In this article, I will discuss and compare the positive and negative consequences of the mandatory use of electronic logging devices.
Pros and Cons of the Obligatory Use of Electronic Logging Devices
Benefits
The compulsory implementation of electronic logging devices has the potential to improve the safety of roads. Drivers can no longer exceed the set hours of work and rest, which has reduced violations and accidents. As a result, traffic rules are better observed, and accidents have significantly decreased. Also, electronic logging devices have allowed companies to track and analyze data more accurately, optimizing their routes and improving performance. This will enable companies to save money as they can use their cars more efficiently. This has led to a reduction in delivery costs for consumers.
Another positive long-term consequence of using ELD is increased transparency and accessibility of information. Electronic logging devices allow shippers to efficiently track and monitor their cargo routes and carriers to have immediate access to the cargo status (Scott et al., 2019). This will enable them to keep customers informed and give them complete information for more efficient route planning.
Drawbacks
Although the mandatory use of ELD can be beneficial in many ways, some potential negative implications must be considered. For example, drivers may feel pressure from employers trying to make them work extra hours to achieve a more significant number of freight shipments. Drivers may experience fatigue, which reduces their productivity and can lead to health problems. In addition, drivers and companies pay an additional fee to install and use electronic logging devices, which can affect their profits. This can also lead to job losses for many drivers, as many transportation companies may not afford to purchase electronic logging devices.
Another negative long-term consequence of using ELD is the possibility of errors in the system. Although ELDs allow carriers and shippers to get more detailed and accurate information, they can also be prone to errors and inaccuracies due to technical or software conditions (Scott et al., 2019). This can lead to inaccurate data and cargo delivery delays, leading to customer dissatisfaction.
All participants in the trucking industry’s supply chain feel the impacts of the ELD mandate. Shippers may experience shipment delays due to increased wait times at loading and unloading facilities, which could lead to customer dissatisfaction. Carriers may have to shoulder the burden of implementing ELDs and the potential for decreased efficiency due to the lack of flexibility for drivers (Scott et al., 2019). Finally, drivers may experience a decrease in their flexibility and freedom and the potential for longer wait times at loading and unloading facilities.
Conclusion
Overall, the mandatory use of ELD in the freight transportation industry has both positive and negative implications. On the one hand, road safety has increased significantly, and the performance of companies has improved. On the other hand, pressure on drivers, additional costs, and job losses can lead to negative consequences. This will require further study before the country decides to take such an initiative.
Reference
Scott, A., Balthrop, A., & Miller, J. (2019). Did the Electronic Logging Device Mandate Reduce Accidents?. Web.