Best ELD for small fleets: Compare the best devices in 2026

The secret to choosing the best ELD for small fleets is a delicate balance of regulatory compliance, operational efficiency and cost management. The right electronic logging device (ELD) is how fleet managers can keep up with ever-changing FMCSA regulations and tracking Hours of Service (HOS). 

The best ELD devices for small fleets offer real-time GPS tracking, automated IFTA reporting and safety features that help small operations compete with enterprises. This guide walks you through the 10 top-rated ELD solutions made specifically for small fleet crews so you can find the right fit for your team. 

1. Geotab 

Geotab brings enterprise-grade fleet management offerings scaled for small operations, which is why it’s one of the best ELD options for small fleets that want big features. The platform combines FMCSA and border-compliant electronic logging with advanced vehicle diagnostics and safety features designed to scale with your business. 

Geotab stands apart from the others on this list because of its open platform architecture. It enables small fleets to integrate with thousands of third-party applications, creating a customized solution that does not require any vendor lock-in. 

Key features  

• Cross-border ELD compliance: Auto-record driving hours across 100+ rulesets covering U.S. and Canadian jurisdictions with real-time HOS status tracking and violation alerts.
• Log management: Track unassigned driving logs, send automated alerts when drivers approach hour limits and enable one-tap log verification for a completely simplified, compliant experience.
• Vehicle inspections: Get digital driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) with the mobile app’s instant notifications for vehicle defects and missed inspection reminders.
• Advanced analytics: Access customizable dashboards to see data on fuel efficiency, harsh braking events and maintenance scheduling.

2. GPSTab

GPSTab is a good option for a small fleet looking for a budget-friendly option. GPSTab eliminates hardware costs and delivers fleet management capabilities with its cloud-based solution. The platform includes IFTA reporting at no additional charge, and its no-contract model provides flexibility for any seasonal operations. 

 Key features  

• Cost-effective compliance: Budget-friendly monthly subscriptions include 24/7 live customer support
• IFTA reporting: Free downloadable IFTA data that saves you from another monthly bill 
• Fleet management tools: Real-time GPS tracking, geofencing abilities, vehicle diagnostics and driver scheduling all kept in one platform
• Easy to use and install: Quick setup with 60-second DIY installation time and low learning curve

3. Matrack

Matrack is an easy-to-use ELD solution that combines robust compliance features with affordability, making it another popular choice for budget-conscious small fleets. Its plug-and-play installation takes minutes, and its fleet management dashboard provides real-time HOS monitoring, automated DVIR submission and instant DOT inspection mode through the mobile app.

Key features  

• Free device with service: No upfront hardware costs, and each device includes a lifetime warranty and flexible month-to-month subscriptions
• Automated HOS tracking: Automatic duty status detection with customizable alerts for fleet-specific compliance needs 
• Compliance monitoring: Keep tabs on your drivers’ logs and DVIRs and alerts to prevent violations
• DOT inspection mode and IFTA reporting: Automated IFTA mileage reporting and DOT Inspection Mode 

4. Motive

Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) is a pure ELD provider turned comprehensive fleet operations platform. It offers enterprise-grade features and AI-powered safety tools, using dash cam footage and telematics data to identify risky behaviors before they become dangerous. 

Key features  

• Automated compliance: Electronic DVIRs, IFTA fuel tax reporting and hours of service tracking to eliminate manual paperwork and keep you compliant in both the U.S. and Canada
• Fleet speed management: Fuel card integration, expense tracking and idle time monitoring to identify cost-savings opportunities
• Real-time GPS tracking: Live vehicle location updates get your customers accurate ETAs and improve theft prevention

5. Samsara

Samsara provides ELD solutions that offer feature depth for small fleets ready to scale. Its three-year contract and high monthly costs can be a barrier to entry for some.

Key features  

• Live GPS tracking: Second-by-second position updates with traffic overlay, historical route replay and geofencing
• Integrated dash cams: HD cameras with AI-powered event detection, incident upload and in-cab coaching
• Built-in Wi-Fi hotspot: Enables drivers to maintain cloud connectivity, no cell plan requirements needed
• Maintenance automation: Usage-based service scheduling by time, mileage or engine hours with automated fault alerts

6. EROAD

EROAD Ehubo is the only ELD to voluntarily submit to independent compliance testing past the standard FMCSA self-certification, and that dedication to accuracy offers some reassurance for any small fleets worried about their first DOT audit. 

Key features  

• PIT Group certified: Independent third-party verification means FMCSA compliance past the standard self-certification standards
•  All-in-one rugged hardware: Purpose-built touchscreen device designed to withstand extreme temperatures
• Advanced IFTA management: Automatic jurisdiction tracking, tax calculations and direct for certain locations
• Customizable alerts and communication: Create custom alerts for drivers and managers to improve response and mitigation times

7. Verizon Connect

Verizon Connect brings its vast telecommunications infrastructure to fleet management, offering small operations reliable network uptimes. Its platform goes past basic ELD compliance features with its advanced analytics. Plus, integration with Verizon’s cellular network means consistent connections across North America. 

Key features  

• Network reliability: Uses Verizon cellular infrastructure for consistent data transmissions and reliability even in remote areas
• Asset monitoring: Track trailers, equipment and cargo with dedicated geofencing alerts and GPS devices
• Fuel management: Driver and vehicle consumption reports designed to eliminate idle time and identify cost optimization opportunities
• Compliance suite: Single platform for hours of service, DVIRs, IFTA reporting and maintenance recordkeeping

8. Rand McNally ELD

Rand McNally provides user-friendly and easy-to-install portable ELD device solutions. Its OverDryve platform uses ELD compliance and GPS navigation made for commercial vehicles, so you do not need separate devices. 

Key features  

• Integrated navigation: Commercial-grade GPS that takes into account vehicle height, weight and hazmat restrictions
• Easy setup: Devices ship ready to use and drivers require minimal training for basic operations
• DOT inspection mode: Instant log access for roadside inspections
• Trip planning tools: Route optimization, fuel stop planning and weigh station locations integrated into navigation

9. Omnitracs

Omnitracs delivers cloud-based fleet management, focusing specifically on driver safety and hotshot behavior monitoring. Its customizable dashboards mean fleet operators do not need to dig through overwhelming datasets, and can instead focus on metrics most relevant to their specific operations. 

• Driver behavior monitoring: Real-time scoring designed to optimize acceleration, braking, cornering and speeding
• Customizable alerts: Configure notifications for events like unauthorized vehicle use, past due maintenance and geofence violations
• Electronic DVIRs: Digital pre- and post-trip inspections with photo attachments to streamline vehicle condition reviews
• IFTA automation: Jurisdiction-based mileage tracking with fuel purchase integration designed to simplify quarterly tax reporting

10. Linxup

Linxup is a no frills choice for fleet operators that want an essential ELD device without the premium pricing or complexity headache. This approach means reduced learning curves while maintaining full FMCSA compliance. Its month-to-month contracts and transparent pricing make it an appealing option for seasonal operations. 

Key features  

• Simple installation: OBD-II connection with automatic data capture, so no technical expertise or professional installation is needed
• Essential HOS tracking: Compliant hours of service logging with violation alerts and driving time remaining
• Basic GPS tracking: Real-time vehicle location and historical route reporting for dispatch and custom service support
• Affordable hardware: Low-cost devices with month-to-month subscription flexibility

Benefits of ELDs for small fleets

Electronic logging devices take operations from basic regulatory performance to completely managed operations. Top benefits for the best ELD devices for small fleets include: 

• Compliance: Automated hours of service tracking mean no more manual logbook errors or worrying about triggering DOT audit violations, digital logs streamline roadside inspections and reduce detention time, and state-specific regulation tracking for rules like California’s Clean Truck Check.
• Efficiency: Automated DVIR workflows replace manual vehicle inspection reports, and dispatches access driver hours instantly when assigning roles to prevent mismatches. 
• Safety: Driver behavior monitoring reduces risks like harsh braking, rapid acceleration and distracted driving. 
• Cost savings: Optimized fuel consumption with idle time tracking and route optimization can save 7%-14% with fuel economy, and decreased HOS violations and lower insurance premiums add up. 

Key considerations when choosing an ELD 

Selecting the best solution for your fleet requires careful evaluation. Keep these factors in mind when looking past the initial sticker price to be certain you’re making the right decision for your operation: 

• Affordability and subscription options: Compare the total cost of ownership (hardware, monthly fees, activation charges, contract length). No-contract providers offer flexibility at higher costs, while multi-year contracts include free or discounted hardware. Factor in hidden costs like customer support fees or additional user licenses.
• Ease of installation: Devices using OBD-II ports require no professional installation, while bring-your-own-device options mean drivers can use their own smartphones. Evaluate driver training requirements to determine the best ELD for small fleet operations.
• FMCSA certification and IFTA support: Look for systems supporting your specific operation type (i.e., short-haul exemption, oil and gas exemption, or standard long-haul rules). For small fleet ELD exemption questions, review current regulations. 
• Software integration with fleet management tools: Look for APIs and integrations that work seamlessly with your current toolset and can scale accordingly. Consider future needs and help mobile apps work on both iOS and Android if drivers use their personal devices. 
• Scalability: Consider if pricing structure remains competitive as you add vehicles and your business scales. Look for feature tiers that offer advanced capabilities like AI safety tools or predictive maintenance.