The carrier should define where yard-move status may be used and for which tasks. Do not use it for ordinary driving on public roads; a compliance review does not create permission to do so.
What this means for your fleet
Define eligible locations and purposes, require a concise annotation, teach drivers when the status ends, and review yard-move use against geofence, dispatch, and public-road context.
Write a boundary the driver can apply
Name the locations and purposes where drivers may use yard-move status, explain any required annotation, and state when the status must end. Do not treat a compliance review as permission to use yard-move status on an ordinary public road. Check any uncertain location against the current rule and FMCSA guidance before using the category.
What to check
| Check | How to verify |
|---|---|
| 1. Confirm carrier authorization | Keep the carrier policy showing who may use yard move, where it is allowed, and who granted the driver's authorization. |
| 2. Verify the location and movement purpose | Save the facility map or geofence, start/end locations, movement purpose, vehicle, driver, and dispatch record. |
| 3. Select the special category | Capture the original ELD event showing the selected special category, time, location, vehicle, and driver account. |
| 4. Add the required context | Retain the driver's annotation and dispatch context that explain the movement and the carrier's review result. |
| 5. End the status before ordinary driving | Show the end event before public-road or ordinary driving, then verify the next automatic driving event and audit history. |
Common failure modes
- Treating a compliance review as permission to use yard-move status on a public road.
- Leaving it active after departure.
- Using it to avoid driving time.
Limits and exceptions
Use this guide to plan your checks; it does not determine whether a legal exception applies, certify a record, or guarantee compliance, safety, savings, or audit results. Preserve original ELD records and edit history. Use the current rules to determine applicability and the manual for your installed device for operating instructions.
Sources and review date
Reviewed August 10, 2026. Check the latest rules and product information before changing your procedures or signing a contract.
- FMCSA guidance on recording hours of service — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Editing, annotation, certification, and original-record preservation — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Factor ELD products, plans, and support — Factor ELD.