Fleetio
#1Modern fleet maintenance and management platform for mixed fleets.
Per vehicleVehicle records, basic maintenance, fuel trackingCloudFree trial
ELD Compliance for Trucking Companies — FMCSA-Registered ELDs, HOS Rules, and Audit Readiness
Compare ELD compliance solutions for trucking companies. FMCSA-registered devices, HOS tracking, DVIR workflows, and IFTA reporting for carriers of all sizes.
Most trucking carriers know they need an ELD. The problem is picking the wrong one — a device that claims FMCSA compliance but is not on the registered list, or cheap hardware that fails during a roadside inspection and triggers the same out-of-service as running no ELD at all. This page covers how to verify registration status, what to demand from an ELD before signing a contract, and how to turn compliance from a cost center into an operational tool.
Last reviewed Mar 19, 2026
How to evaluate eld compliance for trucking companies
The single most important verification in ELD selection is confirming the device is on the FMCSA's registered ELD list at eld.fmcsa.dot.gov. Vendors can claim 'ELD compliance' without being registered — which means drivers using unregistered devices face the same out-of-service risk as those running no ELD at all. Check the registration list directly, not just the vendor's marketing materials. As of 2026, over 700 devices are registered; the major trucking platforms (Motive, Samsara, Geotab Drive, Verizon Connect, Omnitracs) are all on it.
HOS violation prevention is where ELD compliance pays off beyond regulatory risk. Modern ELD platforms calculate remaining drive time in real-time and alert dispatch before a driver runs out of hours mid-delivery. This allows dispatchers to reassign loads, route drivers to nearby rest areas, or split deliveries before an HOS violation occurs. Carriers using ELD-integrated dispatch report 60-75% reduction in HOS violations compared to paper log operations — not just because records are more accurate, but because prevention workflows replace reactive compliance.
Roadside inspection mode is a required ELD feature that many carriers overlook during evaluation. When stopped by a DOT inspector, the driver must be able to transfer ELD data to the inspector via Bluetooth, USB, telematics, or web services within minutes. Verify that your ELD's roadside inspection workflow is straightforward for drivers — especially new drivers who may encounter an inspection before completing full training. A confusing inspection interface creates delays that inspectors note in their reports.
Driver Qualification file integration is the compliance layer beyond HOS that trucking fleets often manage separately — and inefficiently. FMCSA requires carriers to maintain DQ files for every CDL driver including MVR, medical certificate, CDL, PSP report, and drug test records. Platforms like Motive and Samsara now offer DQ file management with automated expiration alerts. If your ELD vendor does not include this, factor the cost of a separate compliance management tool into your comparison.
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Pricing guidance
ELD for trucking carriers runs $15-35/truck/month standalone or $35-50/truck/month bundled with GPS tracking. Hardware is $100-300/truck for ELD units and tablet mounts (often subsidized to $0 on 2-3 year contracts). For a 30-truck carrier: $450-1,050/month standalone ELD or $1,050-1,500/month bundled with GPS. IFTA reporting and DVIR are standard features — do not pay extra for them. Factor in 2-3 year contract terms for major vendors; month-to-month adds 20-30% to the per-truck rate.
All eld compliance platforms for trucking companies
21 platforms reviewed with pricing, deployment details, and editorial verdicts. Each profile includes a full review.
Samsara
#2Connected operations platform for fleet tracking, safety, and compliance.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencingCloudFree trial
Fleet management with strong compliance and safety features for commercial fleets.
Per vehicleGPS tracking and basic fleet managementCloudFree trial
Azuga
#4Simple, affordable GPS fleet tracking with driver rewards and safety features.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, geofencing, trip history, basic reportingCloudFree trial
CalAmp
#5CalAmp is a telematics hardware manufacturer and fleet management software provider known for its LMU and TTU device families and the CalAmp iOn cloud platform. With roots in OEM telematics hardware, CalAmp serves fleet operators, construction companies, and asset-heavy industries. We tested the iOn platform, analyzed real user feedback from G2 and Capterra, evaluated their hardware lineup, and compared CalAmp against leading competitors to deliver this comprehensive review.
~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes)Varies by features and fleet size
ClearPathGPS is an 8.1/10-rated GPS fleet tracking platform best suited for small-to-mid-size field service, construction, and trade fleets that want reliable tracking with transparent pricing and exceptional customer support. At ~$20/vehicle/month with no contracts and a 14-day free trial, it offers real-time GPS tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, and maintenance alerts — making it the top choice for service-based businesses that value simplicity and responsive US-based support o
~$20/vehicle/mo; no setup feesReal-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, driver behavior, reportingFree trial
Fleet Complete (now Powerfleet) is a Canadian-born fleet management platform serving 30,000+ customers across North America. We tested its GPS tracking, AI dash cameras, ELD compliance tools, and asset tracking for 90 days to see how it stacks up against Geotab, Samsara, and other top players.
From $10/vehicle/moGPS tracking, geofences, basic reporting. 36-month contract. Best for basic location tracking.
Motive
#8AI-powered fleet management with ELD, dashcams, and spend management.
Per vehicleELD, GPS tracking, basic reportingCloudFree trial
Geotab
#9Open-platform telematics with advanced data analytics for fleet optimization.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencingCloudFree trial
GPS Trackit
#10Budget-friendly fleet tracking with flexible hardware options.
Per vehicleReal-time tracking, trip history, basic geofencingCloudFree trial
IntelliShift
#11IntelliShift is a 7.9/10-rated fleet intelligence platform best suited for mid-to-large mixed fleets in construction, utilities, and field service that need to unify data from multiple vehicle types and telematics sources. The platform aggregates connected vehicle data, AI safety scoring, compliance management, and maintenance insights into a single dashboard — making it the top choice for complex operations with diverse asset types, though its custom pricing and steeper learning curve favor lar
~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes)Connected vehicle data, GPS tracking, basic safety scoring, reportingFree trial
Lytx
#12AI-powered video safety platform with the largest driving behavior database.
Per vehicleDual-facing camera, MV+AI, self-managed video reviewCloud
Netradyne
#13Netradyne is an 8.6/10-rated AI dash cam platform best suited for fleets that prioritize driver safety, video telematics, and positive behavior coaching. The Driveri camera uses four lenses and edge AI to provide 360-degree vision, real-time alerts, and GreenZone scoring that rewards safe driving — making it the top choice for safety-focused fleets, though it requires integration with a separate fleet management platform for GPS tracking and ELD compliance.
~$30–$50/vehicle/mo + hardwareAI alerts, GreenZone scoring, video cloud storage, driver coaching, analytics dashboard
Omnitracs
#14Omnitracs is a veteran fleet management platform now owned by Solera, built for long-haul trucking and enterprise carriers. With the Omnitracs One unified platform, it combines ELD compliance, route optimization, driver safety, and critical event video in a single ecosystem. We tested the platform, analyzed hundreds of user reviews, and compared it against modern competitors to determine whether Omnitracs still delivers value in 2026.
From $23/vehicle/mo (quote-based)EOBR ($23), Compliance ($32), Premium ($46)
One Step GPS
#15One Step GPS is an 8.0/10-rated GPS fleet tracker best suited for small businesses and budget-conscious fleets that need reliable real-time tracking at the industry’s lowest price point. At ~$13.95/vehicle/month with no contracts, it delivers solid GPS tracking, geofencing, and driver behavior monitoring — making it the top choice for cost-conscious fleets that need visibility without paying for features they won’t use.
~$13.95/vehicle/mo (no contract)Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, trip history, driver reports
Rastrac
#16Rastrac is a 7.5/10-rated GPS fleet tracking and asset management platform best suited for small to mid-size fleets that need affordable real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, fuel management, and maintenance alerts. Founded in 1993, Rastrac is one of the longest-running GPS tracking providers in the industry, offering solid core tracking features at competitive pricing — though it trails newer platforms like Samsara and Motive in advanced analytics, AI capabilities,
Contact for pricingReal-time tracking, geofencing, basic alerts
Simply Fleet
#17Simply Fleet is a 7.6/10-rated fleet maintenance app best suited for very small fleets, owner-operators, and individual vehicle owners who need basic maintenance tracking, fuel logging, and expense management without paying enterprise prices. With a free plan for one vehicle and Pro plans starting at ~$3/vehicle/month, it delivers solid maintenance reminders and fuel tracking — but lacks GPS tracking, telematics, and the advanced features that growing fleets eventually need.
Free plan; Pro from ~$3/vehicle/mo1 vehicle, maintenance tracking, fuel logging, service reminders, basic reportingFree trial
GPS fleet tracking and fleet management for businesses of all sizes.
Per vehicleGPS tracking, geofencing, basic alertsCloudFree trial
Zonar Systems is a commercial fleet telematics provider known for its dominance in school bus and public transit fleet management. Now merged with GPS Trackit to form Zonar Ignition, the platform offers GPS tracking, EVIR electronic inspections, ELD compliance, and AI-powered dash cams. We tested the platform, analyzed 300+ user reviews, and compared it against market leaders to deliver this independent assessment.
From ~$26/vehicle/moIncludes Zonar Logs, DVIR, Ground Traffic Control, HOS
Rhino Fleet Tracking is a 7.8/10-rated budget GPS fleet tracking platform best suited for small to mid-size fleets that need affordable real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing, maintenance alerts, and basic reporting without long-term contracts. It delivers solid core GPS tracking at low cost but lacks advanced telematics, dash cams, and ELD compliance features offered by larger platforms.
Contact for pricingStandard rate; all core features included
Trimble
#21Trimble Transportation is one of the most established names in enterprise fleet and transportation management. Born from acquisitions of TMW Systems, PeopleNet, and others, the platform now offers a cloud-native, AI-powered TMS alongside fleet maintenance, driver mobility, and real-time visibility tools. We evaluated the full Trimble Transportation ecosystem — testing its new AI-powered Trimble TMS, analyzing hundreds of user reviews, and comparing it against Omnitracs, Samsara, Motive, and Geot
Contact for pricing
eld compliance software for trucking — side by side
Pricing, deployment, and trial availability for every platform reviewed. Click any row to read the full review.
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| Software | Pricing model | Starting price | Deployment | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fleetio | Per vehicle | Vehicle records, basic maintenance, fuel tracking | Cloud | Yes |
| Samsara | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| Teletrac Navman | Per vehicle | GPS tracking and basic fleet management | Cloud | Yes |
| Azuga | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, geofencing, trip history, basic reporting | Cloud | Yes |
| CalAmp | ~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes) | Varies by features and fleet size | — | — |
| ClearPathGPS | ~$20/vehicle/mo; no setup fees | Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, driver behavior, reporting | — | Yes |
| Fleet Complete | From $10/vehicle/mo | GPS tracking, geofences, basic reporting. 36-month contract. Best for basic location tracking. | — | — |
| Motive | Per vehicle | ELD, GPS tracking, basic reporting | Cloud | Yes |
| Geotab | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, basic reporting, geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| GPS Trackit | Per vehicle | Real-time tracking, trip history, basic geofencing | Cloud | Yes |
| IntelliShift | ~$25–$45/vehicle/mo (custom quotes) | Connected vehicle data, GPS tracking, basic safety scoring, reporting | — | Yes |
| Lytx | Per vehicle | Dual-facing camera, MV+AI, self-managed video review | Cloud | — |
| Netradyne | ~$30–$50/vehicle/mo + hardware | AI alerts, GreenZone scoring, video cloud storage, driver coaching, analytics dashboard | — | — |
| Omnitracs | From $23/vehicle/mo (quote-based) | EOBR ($23), Compliance ($32), Premium ($46) | — | — |
| One Step GPS | ~$13.95/vehicle/mo (no contract) | Real-time tracking, geofencing, alerts, trip history, driver reports | — | — |
| Rastrac | Contact for pricing | Real-time tracking, geofencing, basic alerts | — | — |
| Simply Fleet | Free plan; Pro from ~$3/vehicle/mo | 1 vehicle, maintenance tracking, fuel logging, service reminders, basic reporting | — | Yes |
| Verizon Connect | Per vehicle | GPS tracking, geofencing, basic alerts | Cloud | Yes |
| Zonar Systems | From ~$26/vehicle/mo | Includes Zonar Logs, DVIR, Ground Traffic Control, HOS | — | — |
| Rhino Fleet Tracking | Contact for pricing | Standard rate; all core features included | — | — |
| Trimble | Contact for pricing | Custom quote | — | — |
Frequently asked questions about eld compliance for trucking fleets
What ELD do most trucking companies use?
Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) is the most widely adopted ELD among trucking companies under 200 trucks — it is FMCSA-registered, intuitive for drivers, and bundles GPS tracking with the ELD subscription at $35-45/truck/month. Samsara is the second most common choice, especially for carriers that also want AI dashcams. Geotab Drive (via reseller) dominates larger enterprise carriers that need deep analytics and custom compliance reporting. Verizon Connect and Omnitracs serve large carriers with complex multi-division operations.
Is ELD required for all trucking companies?
Most commercial motor vehicle operators are required to use an FMCSA-registered ELD. The mandate applies to drivers who must maintain records of duty status (RODS) — primarily interstate carriers operating vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR. Key exemptions: vehicles model year 1999 or older, drivers using paper logs 8 or fewer days in a 30-day rolling period, driveaway-towaway operations, and short-haul drivers using the 100 or 150 air-mile exemption. If you are unsure whether your operation qualifies for an exemption, consult the FMCSA's exemption guidance at fmcsa.dot.gov.
What happens during a DOT roadside inspection with an ELD?
During a roadside inspection, the driver must display their current HOS status on the ELD screen and transfer 7 days of records to the inspector on request. Transfer methods include Bluetooth, USB, telematics web services, or email — the inspector chooses. The driver selects 'Roadside Inspection' mode in the ELD app, which prepares the data package. The inspector verifies hours remaining, rest periods, and DVIR status. If the ELD malfunctions, drivers must switch to paper logs for up to 8 days while arranging repairs.
How do I know if my ELD is FMCSA registered?
Check the FMCSA's registered ELD list directly at eld.fmcsa.dot.gov — search by vendor name or device name. The list is publicly maintained and updated when vendors are added or removed. Do not rely on a vendor's claim alone. Unregistered devices offer no compliance protection: drivers using them face the same out-of-service risk as drivers on paper logs, and carriers face civil penalties starting at $1,270 per violation.
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