Mobile carriers have already started shutting down their 3G networks to pave the way for more advanced network services, including 5G. As a result, many older devices will no longer be able to send/receive calls or texts or connect to data services. These devices include Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs). As soon as cellular carriers cease to support 3G networks, any ELD that relies on those networks will fall short of meeting the federal ELD technical specifications. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires that all required data elements be recorded and output files transferred.
What Is an ELD and What Does It Do?
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) apps can be installed on a smartphone or on another wireless device such as a tablet as long as they meet the required specifications. The purpose of an ELD in commercial trucking is to keep HOS records, which are required by law to be kept by Florida truck drivers and fleet operators.
An ELD simplifies a very important part of a trucker’s daily life on the road. ELDs are attached to a truck’s engine and they record driving activities and update driver logs automatically. By collecting this data, dispatchers and drivers are able to monitor the availability of hours and violation risks in real-time.
Will My ELD Go Down After 3G Networks Are Shut Down?
ELDs that require 3G connectivity to function will no longer be compliant with the technical specifications of the ELD rule after 3G networks are shut down. An unsupported 3G device will register a malfunction when it is in an area without 3G coverage. Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations require the carrier to resolve the problem within eight days. In this case, this will mean replacing the equipment within those 8 days, unless the FMCSA grants an extension.
If you haven’t already, confirm whether your ELD has to connect to a 3G network. If you have an ELD that relies on 4G or 5G connectivity and the device meets all requirements that have been outlined, your ELD will continue operating as it should. However, there may be actions you need to take if you want to ensure that your ELD operates at optimal performance. You can check with the ELD provider to ask if there are any updates available to improve your device.
Below, you can find the dates when the major mobile carriers will shut down their networks, starting with AT&T and Sprint, which have already made their changes.
- AT&T 3G: Feb. 22, 2022
- Sprint 3G (T-Mobile): March 31, 2022
- Sprint LTE (T-Mobile): June 30, 2022
- T-Mobile 3G: July 1, 2022
- Verizon 3G: Dec. 31, 2022
Bear in mind these dates mark the full shutdown of the network. Parts of 3G networks will be shut down ahead of these dates. The above networks are major mobile carriers and are used by other well-known carriers, such as Straight Talk.
What Actions Should Motor Carriers Take?
If you have an older ELD device that depends on 3G connectivity from one of the above carriers that has yet to completely sunset its network, you should take action now so you can avoid disruptions and compliance issues.
Failure to comply with federal and state regulations will negatively impact your bottom line. Fines or ELD violations can range from $1,000 to $10,000. Those who fail to adhere to best practices and have negative marks on their records can expect higher commercial truck insurance premiums and more disruptions. Florida truck drivers who are non-compliant may also be informed they will not be able to continue driving until they are compliant.
Don’t let lack of compliance put your career on hold. For more information on ELD compliance and how failing to comply can impact your commercial truck insurance coverage, contact JEB Insurance Services, LLC today. We write commercial truck and owner operator insurance in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Illinois, Iowa Tennessee & Nebraska.
