Knowing how to correct ELD discrepancies before a compliance review can save your fleet from violations, fines, and unnecessary stress. ELD data discrepancies are one of the most common issues uncovered during audits and inspections, and most are preventable when addressed early.
This guide explains how to identify ELD log issues, make legal corrections, and prepare your records before an ELD compliance review takes place.
Table of Contents
What Are ELD Discrepancies?
ELD discrepancies occur when electronic log data does not accurately reflect a driver’s actual activity. These inconsistencies are reviewed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under rules established by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Common ELD data discrepancies include:
- Unassigned driving time
- Incorrect duty status changes
- Missing log certifications
- Location or mileage mismatches
- Unsupported edits
If left unresolved, these issues can turn into ELD log violations.
Why Fixing ELD Errors Before Reviews Matters
Correcting ELD discrepancies before a review helps you:
- Reduce audit findings
- Avoid penalties and fines
- Shorten inspection times
- Protect CSA and safety scores
Proactive corrections are a key part of ELD audit preparation.
Common Causes of ELD Data Discrepancies
1. Unassigned Driving Time
This happens when the vehicle moves without a driver logged in.
If not assigned and explained, it often triggers violations during reviews.
2. Incorrect Duty Status Selections
Drivers may accidentally log:
- Off-duty instead of on-duty
- Yard move instead of driving
- Personal conveyance incorrectly
These are frequent reasons fleets need to fix ELD errors.
3. Missing Certifications or Annotations
Logs must be certified daily and edited entries must include explanations.
Missing notes are a red flag in any ELD compliance review.
How to Correct ELD Discrepancies Legally
Step 1: Identify Issues Early
Review logs daily and weekly to spot:
- Unassigned drive time
- Excessive edits
- HOS limit warnings
Early detection reduces risk.
Step 2: Make Driver Log Edits Properly
Drivers are allowed to request edits, but they must follow ELD rules.
Legal driver log edits (ELD) must:
- Be accurate and truthful
- Include a clear annotation
- Be accepted or rejected by the carrier
Never edit logs to hide violations.
Step 3: Document Every Correction
Annotations should explain:
- Why the change was made
- What error occurred
- When it was corrected
Clear documentation shows good-faith compliance.
Step 4: Review Supporting Documents
Cross-check logs with:
- Fuel receipts
- Bills of lading
- Dispatch records
Supporting documents help validate ELD log corrections.
Step 5: Conduct a Pre-Review Compliance Check
Before any audit or review:
- Verify logs are certified
- Resolve unassigned time
- Confirm edits are annotated
- Archive supporting documents
This step is essential for ELD audit preparation.
What Not to Do When Fixing ELD Errors
Avoid:
- Deleting logs
- Editing records without explanations
- Changing driving time to off-duty
- Making last-minute bulk edits
These actions can worsen ELD log violations.
FAQs: Correcting ELD Discrepancies
Can ELD logs be edited legally?
Yes. ELD logs can be edited to correct errors, but all changes must be annotated and approved by the carrier.
How far back can ELD corrections be made?
Typically, logs within the required retention period can be corrected, as long as changes are properly documented.
Do corrections prevent violations?
Timely and transparent corrections reduce risk, but falsifying data can still lead to penalties.
How often should ELD logs be reviewed?
Drivers should review logs daily. Fleets should perform weekly compliance checks.
Stay Ahead of ELD Compliance Reviews
ELD discrepancies do not have to become violations. When you identify issues early, correct them legally, and document every change, you create a strong compliance record that stands up to audits and inspections.
Need Help Fixing ELD Discrepancies?
If your fleet is preparing for a compliance review or struggling with ELD log errors, expert guidance can make the process smoother. Reach out to us at www.welocity.ca, call 905-901-1601 or email info@welocity.ca. From ELD setup and log corrections to audit preparation and compliance training, Welocity helps fleets stay compliant with confidence.