Best ELD for Hotshot Trucking in 2023 [Top 15 Picks] (2023)

Are you wondering what type of ELD is best for Hotshot business? If YES, here are 15 best and most useful ELD for Hotshot trucking in 2023. If you are looking towards starting a career as a hotshot truck driver, one of the major work tools or gadgets or devices that can’t be found missing in your collection of gadgets is an Electronic Logging Device (ELD).

The fact that as far back as December 2019, the use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for commercial motor vehicles was made mandatory by the U.S. government makes it an essential gadget for hotshot truckers.

The decision was intended towards creating a safer work environment for drivers, through accurate and automatic recording of drivers’ on and off-duty time, as well as making it easier to manage and share data in compliance with the Department of Transportation’s Hours of Service rules.

Please note that the Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) mandate only applies to carriers and drivers who are required to maintain records of duty status (RODS), in accordance with US federal hours of service regulations. Those who fail to comply will be penalized with fines, placed out of service, and CSA points added to your record.

When making a decision of the best Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to buy, the most important criteria that an Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) must fulfill are to be on FMCSA’s list of approved devices, and not complying with this might attract heavy fines and penalties. No doubt, getting reliable hotshot trucking Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) will go a long way to make sure that you are efficient, well-organized, and maximize productivity as a hotshot trucker.

Having said that, considering the number of options on the market, shopping for the best Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for hotshot truck drivers can be challenging and time-consuming. In no particular order, here are 15 of the Best Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that you can get in the market as at today.

What is the Best Type of ELD for Hotshot Trucking in 2023?

1. Spireon FleetLocate HOS Compliance

One of the best ELDs that you can get in the market today is Spireon FleetLocate HOS Compliance. Spireon’s FleetLocate solution offers ELD compliance and comes bundled with their fleet management system for even more features and budget-saving abilities.

Mixed fleets are supported, so vehicles that need to meet ELD regulation compliance can be grouped alongside any vehicles that don’t need their HOS logged: Heavy duty trucks, light duty pickups, cars, vans, trailers or assets can all be tracked.

With the Spireon FleetLocate HOS Compliance, managers can monitor driver hours, telling with a glance at a dashboard which drivers are on duty, how many hours are left in their workday, which driver may have started a trip without a vehicle inspection, and which driver might be at risk for a violation.

Drivers, meanwhile, will be able to bring their own devices, using a tablet or smartphone with Android or iOS, or a dedicated handheld device, to track their HOS and DVIR logs while on the go. DOT inspections can be logged quickly, without worrying about filling out paperwork.

In addition, Spireon FleetLocate HOS Compliance also offers an online resource center that includes free guides, webinars, and articles among other resources. Here are some key advantages of using Spireon FleetLocate HOS Compliance;

• Driver alerts
• Centralized dashboard
• GPS location tracking
• Serves all fleet sizes

2. Azuga eLogs ELD

Another best ELDs that you can get for your hotshot trucking business is Azuga eLogs ELD. Azuga eLogs ELD facilitates effortless compliance with the ELD mandate. It can be availed with its comprehensive FMS system provided by the company.

The hardware can be installed on your own and this solution can serve fleets of all numbers and sizes. Azuga eLogs, Azuga’s ELD compliance solution, is available through the software company as an add-on to their full FMS bundle which includes GPS tracking and geofencing among other fleet management perks.

Their eLogs handle HOS logs and DVIR reports alike, offering alerts on hours limits to ensure drivers know when they are at risk of a violation. One good thing is that with the intuitive interface of Azuga eLogs ELD, drivers will be able to tell at a glance how many hours they have remaining on a shift or a cycle with little effort.

Managers, meanwhile, will have a comprehensive, timely, and error-free look at their fleet: The FMS allows them to track everything from driving events like speeding and hard braking to cell phone distractions or regular service warnings. Here are some features that make Azuga eLogs ELD;

• Driver alerts
• Geofencing
• GPS Tracking
• Driver Scores
• 24/7 Support
• Serves fleets of all sizes

3. Lytx with Geotab GO Cloud ELD

Another best ELD that you can get for your hotshot trucking business is Lytx with Geotab GO Cloud ELD. The Lytx with Geotab GO Cloud ELD software solution can be bought directly from the telematics supplier Geotab, for use with their hardware, but the best version is available through the Lytx FMS solution, making this another ELD-compliance service that brings the full power of fleet management to bear.

Lytx with Geotab GO Cloud ELD uses a cloud-upload process to store data recorded both from the driver’s mobile app (duty status logs) and from the hardware unit (GPS location and engine data). As a result, all data is securely backed up at all times. It’s the most reliable way to store ELD compliance reports. Here are some features that make Lytx with Geotab GO Cloud ELD a top pick:

• Secure cloud-based data upload
• HOS tracking
• Driver notifications
• GPS tracking
• DOT and CSA compliance

4. Teletrac Navman ELD

Teletrac Navman ELD no doubt is yet another excellent ELD that you can get as a hotshot trucker. This is Teletrac Navman Director is a popular FMS service. Its ELD-specific compliance module, Director ELD, brings with it a certain prestige: It has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, includes role-based support for drivers and administrators, and sells both on demand and live ELD training, including 21 on-demand courses preloaded on each ELD device.

Teletrac Navman ELDs are particularly attractive for managers who want a central location to keep an eye on all their vehicles. Managers can see at a glance which vehicles in their fleet are on duty, off duty, driving, at risk, or in violation of the ELD mandate. They can also easily see their drivers’ names, vehicle numbers, current location, time of the last update, and duty status all from a Driver Overview dashboard.

Drivers, meanwhile, can use their in-cab Drive tablets to expedite roadside inspections with a special one-click DOT inspection feature and can receive audible and visual HOS violation alerts. Here are some features that make L Teletrac Navman ELD a top pick:

• Intuitive Interface
• Role-Based Support
• Upgrading to FMS is simple
• Free Demo
• Strong Support
• On Demand and Live Training Courses

5. GPS Insight Hours of Service

Another best ELD that you can get for your hotshot trucking business is GPS Insight. This is so because GPS Insight offers an ELD-compliant service, its Hours of Service Solution. Aside from the guaranteed FMCSA E-log mandate compliance, the service delivers on the DVIRs that make sure a vehicle’s preventative maintenance needs are accounted for with pre-and post-trip inspection prompts.

It also uses both audible and visual alerts to ensure drivers constantly keep their remaining hours at the top of their minds, which lets them make the most of their time and keeps the business running at peak efficiency. Alerts can be set up for a variety of categories in addition to maintenance, including management, safety, vehicle health, and assets.

One good thing about GPS Insight is that fleet management features are included in their ELD solution. The GPS Insight Hours of Service solution includes two-way messaging for better driver-manager communication, and, thanks to GPS location tracking, lets managers know where their drivers are at all times. Managers can dispatch jobs with auto-generated step-by-step instructions that guide drivers to their next location.

Here are some features that make GPS Insight ELD a top pick:

• Two-way messaging
• GPS location tracking
• Wide variety of alerts, including DVIR inspection
• 24/7 Technical Support
• Serves fleets of all sizes

6. Verizon Connect Reveal ELD

Verizon Connect Reveal ELD is yet another best ELD that you can get as a hotshot trucker. Verizon Connects ELD solution is baked into their larger fleet management system, Verizon Connect Reveal. Although this feature might scare off fleets looking for a quick ELD-compliant solution, but in a real sense, it actually offers the largest possible cost savings for most fleets, as it includes access to optimizing features like live maps and geofencing, as well as options for field service and asset tracking add-ons.

The main ELD add-on is called Logbook, and gives drivers the notifications they need to track their HOS and avoid violations while giving managers an eagle’s-eye view of which drivers have the time to take on another assignment.

The support options you will get when you make use of Verizon Connect Reveal ELD include phone, live online, chatbots, webinars, and training materials. Logbook includes the engine connectivity hardware and installation all for free, and includes a free demo, though fleets will need to provide their own smartphones and tablets in order to run the drivers’ mobile apps.

Here are some features that make Verizon Connect Reveal ELD a top pick:

• Risk warning alerts for drivers
• Administrator dashboard
• Phone and online support
• Free demo
• Strong Support

7. BigRoad’s Dashlink ELD

If you are looking for the best standalone ELD as a hotshot trucker, then your best bet is to go for BigRoad’s Dashlink ELD. This is so because Dashlink system is a standalone ELD solution with all the basic features ⁠— it automatically tallies up hours of service (HOS), it records duty status, and it generates reports. Also included are a few noteworthy additions that include a fuel-tracking ability and notifications to let managers know when they’re at risk for a violation.

In addition, BigRoad’s Dashlink ELD offers a free trial and free demo, with free downloadable materials on their website that include guides, videos, and ebooks. The Dashlink ELD solution bundle offers plug-and-play hardware units for each vehicle which can be easily installed and paired with the BigRoad mobile app through Bluetooth, but it does not charge an upfront hardware cost. It costs $25.00 per month, per user, with annual billing required for any fleets under 10 vehicles.

Here are some features that make BigRoad’s Dashlink ELD a top pick:

• Fuel tracking
• Risk notifications
• Traffic display
• GPS tracking
• Free Trial
• Serves fleets of all sizes

8. Rand McNally ELD 50

Another excellent ELD that you should consider as a hotshot trucker is the Rand McNally ELD 50. Rand McNally ELD 50 installs quickly, and comes at a low monthly cost. A few features included (along with ELD compliance) are handy perks for fleets that don’t have a full FMS service: Two-way messaging is a useful way for managers to quickly communicate changes or receive updates, while vehicle tracking offers managers some reassurance that drivers are staying on track.

One good quality about this ELD is that Rand McNally’s plug-and-play unit offers easy installation, though some drivers find the interface difficult to navigate. Please note that managers can subscribe to a $19.95/month Compliance plan in order to get ELD compliant HOS, DVIR, real-time location tracking, and two-way messaging capabilities. A $24.99/month Core plan is also available, offering IFTA fuel tracking and workflow reporting features.

Here are some features that make Rand McNally ELD 50 a top pick:

• Easy installation
• Two-way messaging
• Location tracking
• Free Trial
• 24/7 Support
• Serves fleets of all sizes

9. EROAD Ehubo ELD

If you are looking for one of the best basic and affordable FMCSA compliant ELD with accurate recording of hours of service, then you should consider EROAD Ehubo ELD. This device not only comes with a sturdy hardware but also supports a wide range of services including reporting and compliance, dependable back-office feature suite, ease of use and installation, and more. It is a convenient, cost-effective, and reliable ELD to choose for owner-operators.

In addition, EROAD Ehubo ELD offers fleet management services. All their hardware are backed by warranty plans, and they also provide reliable technical support. Some of the benefits of EROAD ELD are reduced paperwork and administration time, accurate records of mileage and route data, management of fuel receipts, compiling of IFTA return data, and fuel trip records. These features and benefits make it a great fit for owner-operators as well as small-sized fleets.

Here are some features that make EROAD Ehubo ELD a top pick:

• The compact and single in-vehicle unit
• Location tracking
• IFTA reporting
• Safety management and risk alerts
• Geolocation capabilities
• Project time monitoring.

10. Omnitracs ELD

Omnitracs ELD is yet another excellent ELD that you can get as a hotshot trucker. This is because Omnitracs ELD offers plenty of features, but its cost-efficiency can depend on the type of service plan, and whether your fleet leases the hardware units. The interface and features are hard to beat, and 24/7 online support can guide operators through any concerns.

In addition, Omnitracs ELD also offers two ELD compliance-oriented units (in addition to an Omnitracts FMS unit, which we won’t cover here). The Omnitracs XRS device is a plug-and-play unit, while the Omnitracs IVG unit must be hardwired into the vehicle.

Both offer a similar range of features, including automatically recorded data for HOS, IFTA fuel tracking, and DVIR, as well as vehicle tracking, safety reporting, two-way messaging, driver monitoring, Bluetooth support, and proof of delivery. There is no initial cost for the XRS if it is leased; Leases are available for the IVG unit as well, but it’ll cost a pricey $800 if bought outright.

Here are some features that make Omnitracs ELD a top pick:

• Fuel tracking
• Safety reporting
• Driver monitoring
• Free Trial
• 24/7 Support
• Serves fleets of all sizes

11. Gorilla Safety ELD

If you are operating on a low budget but yet looking for a reliable ELD for your hotshot truck, then your best option is Gorilla Safety ELD A cost-efficient option. The Gorilla Safety ELD offers a high-quality ELD compliance and DVIR service at one of the lowest upfront and monthly costs in the industry. Businesses that prioritize documentation should find Gorilla Safety to be the best on the market for streamlining the process.

Please note that as required by law, the ELD by Gorilla safety is also compliant with FMCSA regulations. The app allows drivers to switch on document tracking while driving – assisting them in scanning and digitally recording documents to relevant categories, including sections specific to the driver, the truck, or the company.

Interestingly, the Gorilla Safety ELD comes at an upfront lease price of $7 with a subscription that starts at $12 per month. It has one of the lowest costings ELD plans, offers a free trial. Here are some features that make Gorilla Safety ELD a top pick:

• Document management
• Mechanic inspections
• Low cost
• Free Trial
• Support during business hours
• Serves fleets of all sizes.

12. GPS Trackit ELD

GPS Trackit ELD is yet another excellent ELD that you can get as a hotshot trucker. Interestingly, GPS Trackit’s ELD system is available to fleets without locking them into any contract — not even for one year. The service offers simple, easy to install plug-and-play hardware units and a software that delivers all the essential features and abilities for an ELD mandate-compliant system.

Hours of service are tracked automatically, with a clock tracking when drivers have signed in or out. Reports can be generated and transmitted with the touch of a button, and maintenance checklists can guide drivers through the process of inspecting air compressors, drive lines, and any other items needing regular checkups.

Please note that GPS Trackit offers hardware packages as well as the option of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Their monthly subscription rate starts at $24.95. There are no contracts required to be signed. This makes it a good option for owner-operators and small-sized fleets, who often prefer to first use and check the features of their ELD before entering a long term commitment.

Here are some features that make GPS Trackit ELD a top pick:

• Simple Installation
• Intuitive Interface
• No Contracts
• Downloadable app
• Custom alerts
• Maintenance checklist
• Generate and Transmit Reports
• Saves Time and Reduces Errors
• Store and retrieve data easily
• Track HOS Status of All Vehicles
• Minimize Violations.

13. Samsara ELD

If you are looking for one of the best ELD for complete fleet management service, then one of your best options is Samsara ELD. This is so because the Samsara ELD is a great option for fleet managers who are also interested in a complete fleet management service.

While you won’t need to purchase a full FMS (field management system) in order to buy the ELD-compliance hardware/software package, it’s easy to upgrade to one, and Samsara offers one of the most comprehensive FMS services available.

Samara’s ELD solution is a unit that plugs directly into a vehicle engine via its OBD port and is paired with a mobile app that a driver can use to track and log their vehicle data in real time. In addition, dispatchers can use a dashboard to see the HOS for all of their drivers in one central location.

The devices are easy to connect and set up, and managers can easily upgrade to Samsara’s full fleet management service while retaining the ELD-specific software’s dashboard and app infrastructure. Here are some features that make Samsara ELD a top pick:

• Intuitive Interface
• Easy Installation
• Upgrading to FMS is simple
• Free Trial
• 24/7 Support
• Serves fleets of all sizes

14. Garmin eLog ELD

If you are looking to make a long-term investment in your prospective ELD device, Garmin ELog is the one for you. One of the things that differentiate Garmin from other ELD providers is that it has flat pricing with no periodical subscription or cost. The device is easy to set up, FMCSA and HoS compliant. The device-compatible app – Garmin eLog app – can be downloaded to any smartphone or tablet of your choice.

Interestingly, Garmin eLog comes with a tough learning curve, both for setup and daily use. However, the complete lack of ongoing costs is rare among ELD providers and makes Garmin stand out as one of the best long-term ELD investments. It does the job – even offering fuel tracking – and once drivers have mastered it, the Garmin eLog can save a business thousands of dollars a month.

Please note that Garmin ELogs are available for a one-time purchase of $249.99 with no additional costs there onwards. It also includes an app (which is free and user-centric) that can be used by the drivers to update their status efficiently and manually. As the device records fuel usage, it helps in accurate calculation and filing of IFTA. Here are some features that make Garmin eLog a top pick:

• IFTA fuel tracking
• Free mobile app for updates and data
• No ongoing costs
• 24/7 customer support
• Supports both 9-pin and 6-pin diagnostic ports
• Automated recording of Hours of Service (HOS)

15. KeepTruckin ELD

With a shadow of a doubt, KeepTruckin ELD is one of the best if not the best ELD that we have in the market today. This is because KeepTruckin ELD is trusted by thousands of truckers, and it is the best known for its interface that is not only very user-friendly but also cost-effective and affordable for all fleets.

They have an intuitive driver app that helps them in improving efficiency. The services provided by KeepTruckin are attuned to provide for vehicles of all sizes and can be availed for several commercial and fleet tracking purposes. Given the range of features and added services it offers, it is one of the best in its price range.

It might interest you to know that KeepTruckin offers an ELD solution for vehicles of any size, and a basic plan which includes ELD compliant logs, two-way messaging, GPS location tracking, and customizable vehicle inspection features that include vehicle histories and automated alerts.

Please note that the ELDs provided by KeepTruckin start at a nominal cost of $20 per month. There are no initial costs involved, and the hardware units are free for lease for the duration of the one-year contract. This also comes with free 24\7 support and an array of features including IFTA fuel tracking and driver coaching with its services.

Here are some features that make KeepTruckin ELD a top pick:

• FMCSA and DoT compliance
• IFTA fuel tax reporting
• Intuitive Driver app and Driver coaching
• Vehicle Inspections and Diagnostics
• Trailer and Equipment Tracking (Serves fleets of all sizes)
• In-Cab Wi-Fi Hotspot
• 24/7 tech support
• Intuitive interface
• Two-way messaging
• Free Version

In Conclusion;

All the ELD listed above have some unique features that make them stand out, hence it is will be to your advantage to review them to see the one that best suits your purposes. Please note that apart from choosing the kind of ELD solution you need, it is also important to select a reliable ELD service provider and vendor that can give you the needed support you would need going forward.