Best ELD for owner operators: Top 6 picks and how to choose one

Keeping up with federal regulations is not optional. Since the FMCSA’s ELD mandate took effect, most drivers are required to use an electronic logging device or face fines that can reach thousands of dollars. 

For solo drivers, finding the best ELD for owner operators is not just about checking the compliance box but protecting your time and keeping your business profitable.

The right ELD can help you simplify electronic logbooks, avoid costly violations and uncover ways to cut expenses. For owner-operators, that means less paperwork, more efficient miles and tools that fit the way you run your business. 

In this guide, we’ll review six of the top ELD options designed for solo drivers, highlighting each of their key features, costs and trade-offs.

What is an electronic logging device?

An ELD is a piece of hardware that connects to a truck’s engine to record driving time, duty status and other key compliance data. By replacing paper logbooks with electronic logs for owner operators, ELD devices make tracking hours of service (HOS) and meeting federal regulations easier. ELDs help companies: 

• Stay compliant: The FMCSA requires ELDs for most drivers and owner-operators who record duty status. They help you avoid violations, fines and downtime at roadside inspections.
• Save time on paperwork: Because ELDs automatically log driving hours, you spend less time filling out forms and more time focused on driving and managing your business.
• Improve efficiency: Some ELD options include features that help you increase fuel efficiency, such as idle time tracking or driving behavior monitoring. Over time, these insights can save you money and maximize miles per gallon.
• Boost fleet safety: Even for owner-operators, ELDs can tie into a fleet safety program, offering alerts and driver scorecards that improve performance behind the wheel. A safer driving record also leads to better compliance and fewer accidents. 
• Cut down on costs: ELDs can lower your overall fleet costs by helping you reduce fuel waste, avoid fines and plan maintenance more effectively. This means more savings you can put back into your business.
• Simplify reporting: Modern ELD devices for owner operators include dashboards that make fleet management reporting easy to understand. Instead of crunching numbers by hand, you can generate compliance, fuel and performance reports in just a few clicks. 

1. Geotab

Geotab offers a powerful electronic logging device for trucks that goes far beyond basic compliance. The delivers an all-in-one ELD platform that manages HOS monitoring/reporting, log management, cross-border compliance, vehicle inspections, and other ELD-compliant reports. 

Unlike ELDs that only handle logs, Geotab’s cloud platform includes advanced tools like customizable dashboards, automated driver reminders and real-time alerts. It’s designed for drivers who want one solution to handle compliance, safety and efficiency in a single easy-to-use system.

Key features  

• HOS monitoring: Automated hours of service tracking with real-time alerts. 
• Cross-border support: Simple log management across U.S. and Canadian rules.
• Log management: Cloud-based storage for driver logs with easy retrieval. 
• Vehicle inspections: Simplified DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports) for faster reporting.
• Reporting: Customizable dashboards and ELD compliance reports.

2. Motive

Motive offers affordable ELD options without cutting corners on DOT compliance or usability. It’s designed to help owner-operators stay on top of HOS regulations with features like violation breakdowns, cycle trends and proactive countdown clocks.

Through the Driver App, solo drivers can easily manage duty status, review logs on the go and receive real-time alerts to prevent unidentified trips. Motive also reduces the risk of compliance errors by automatically matching drivers to trips and sending instant notifications.

Key features  

• HOS insights and violation breakdowns: Stay ahead of compliance risks with detailed reporting.
• Driver app: Manage duty status, review logs and receive HOS countdown alerts on the go.
• AI trip assignment: Automatically matches drivers with unidentified trips to avoid errors.
• All-in-one compliance: Manage IFTA, DVIR and HOS in a single platform.

3. Samsara

Samsara is an ELD option for owner-operators who want a simple yet powerful compliance tool. FMCSA-registered and third-party certified, Samsara offers reliable HOS logging and log management for U.S. and Canadian regulations.

Built on its connected operations cloud, Samsara makes deploying and managing electronic logging devices easy without complicated setup. With turnkey integrations and real-time insights, it’s designed to help solo drivers streamline compliance while staying connected on the road.

Key features  

• HOS logging: Accurate, FMCSA-compliant hours of service tracking.
• Connected operations cloud: Centralized platform for compliance, telematics and driver management.
• Turnkey integrations: Works with existing dispatch, routing and fleet management tools.
• Wi-Fi hotspot: Keeps drivers connected without relying on separate devices.

4. HOS247

HOS247 is a trusted ELD provider known for its top-rated customer support and straightforward setup. FMCSA-certified and easy to install, drivers can connect their devices via USB or Bluetooth and start logging easily.

What makes HOS247 stand out is its multilingual, multichannel support available seven days a week, along with over-the-phone onboarding training. Owner-operators also benefit from simple log management, DVIR tracking, IFTA mileage and real-time GPS data to keep operations smooth and compliant.

Key features  

• Top-rated support: Dedicated driver and fleet management support available 7 days a week.
• Quick setup: Easy installation with USB or Bluetooth connectivity.
• Log and DVIR management: Edit logs and complete inspections digitally.
• Real-time insights: GPS tracking, vehicle diagnostics and IFTA mileage reporting.

5. Azuga

Azuga’s ELD solution is a strong option for owner-operators who want more than just compliance. In addition to meeting ELD and DVIR regulations in the U.S. and Canada, it includes safety-focused add-ons like driver behavior monitoring, fuel tracking and maintenance alerts.

The platform supports English, French Canadian and Spanish, making it a versatile choice for drivers across North America. With built-in IFTA reporting, Azuga also helps simplify fuel tax paperwork and reduce administrative time on the road.

Key features  

• Multilingual support: Available in English, French Canadian and Spanish.
• Cross-border compliance: Meets ELD and DVIR requirements in the U.S. and Canada.
• IFTA reporting: Automatically tracks fuel usage and tax filings.
• Maintenance alerts: Stay ahead of vehicle service needs.

6. Garmin eLog

Garmin eLog is a simple, one-time purchase ELD option that appeals to owner-operators who want a straightforward compliance solution without ongoing fees. FMCSA-compliant and easy to install, it plugs directly into your truck and records HOS data seamlessly.

Logs are stored on a compatible smartphone through Bluetooth and can be accessed via the Garmin eLog app. Designed to fit any semi-truck, Garmin eLog can also pair with Garmin’s dēzl GPS truck navigators, making it a practical choice for drivers already using Garmin products.

Key features  

• No subscription fees: One-time purchase with no recurring costs.
• FMCSA-compliant HOS recording: Stay compliant with electronic logging requirements.
• Smartphone integration: Sync records via Bluetooth and manage with the Garmin eLog app.
• Garmin compatibility: Works with Garmin dēzl GPS navigators for added convenience.

Tips for choosing the right ELD 

Choosing the best ELD for truckers is about finding a device that fits the way you work as an owner-operator. Here are some practical ELD tips to help you pick the correct device for your business.

Match your budget needs 

As a solo driver, every dollar counts, so it’s important to match your ELD choice with your budget. Some systems, like Garmin eLog, have a one-time hardware cost and no subscription fees, while others include monthly plans with added features. 

Consider whether you’d rather keep upfront costs low or pay a subscription for tools that save time and improve efficiency in the long run.

A budget-friendly device may be enough if your main goal is basic compliance. But it may be worth investing in a premium device if you’re looking for insights to grow your business, such as fuel reports or maintenance alerts.

Check compliance certifications  

No matter which device you choose, make sure it’s on the official FMCSA ELD self-certification list. This confirms the device meets federal requirements and will keep you compliant during inspections.

Not all low-cost devices are properly certified, so double-check before you buy. An uncertified ELD could result in fines, violations or being placed out of service.

Look at ease of use and support  

As an owner-operator, you do not have extra staff to manage technology, so your ELD needs to be simple. Look for systems with intuitive apps, easy-to-read dashboards and one-click log edits to reduce frustration on the road.

Support is just as important. If you’re driving solo and run into an issue, having responsive customer service available can save you time, stress and possible compliance penalties.

Consider extra features

Beyond basic compliance, the best ELD for owner operators offer features that can help owner-operators cut costs and run smarter. Options like GPS tracking, fuel usage reports or dash cam integration can add value by streamlining operations and boosting safety.

Think about what would make the biggest difference for your business. For example, choose an ELD with efficiency tracking if you want to reduce fuel spend. If safety is your top priority, look for a system that supports dash cams and driver alerts.

Which ELD is right for you?

The best ELD choice depends on what matters most to your business. 

If you want an all-in-one system that combines compliance, telematics and reporting, Geotab’s electronic logging device is a proven, easy-to-use option for owner-operators.
 

For owner-operators, the right ELD does more than keep you compliant; it helps you save precious hours on paperwork, avoid costly violations and keep every mile profitable. 

With no office staff to back you up, your system needs to be simple, reliable, and built for one-truck operations. 

Ready to get started? Check out Geotab’s ELD training guide to learn how to set up and get the most from your device.