Introduction

Many drivers travel through areas with poor internet or GPS connectivity. So, what happens to your logs when you lose signal? The answer depends on whether your ELD supports offline mode. In this 2025 guide, we cover how offline ELD systems work, how to stay compliant, and what to do during outages.

What Is an Offline-Capable ELD?

Offline ELDs continue recording Hours of Service (HOS) data locally on the device when cellular or GPS signal is lost. Once signal is restored, the data syncs automatically with the cloud dashboard or mobile app.

What Happens When Signal Is Lost?

  • Cellular Loss: ELD stores logs locally and queues data for upload.
  • GPS Loss: Some ELDs may estimate driving location using speed and movement.
  • Power Loss: Logs stop recording until power is restored unless the ELD has internal battery backup.

Top ELDs with Offline Capability

  • Motive: Stores logs and HOS data offline; syncs instantly when back online.
  • Samsara: Offers local caching and automatic backfill of location data.
  • EROAD: Maintains accurate logs during signal loss with internal memory.

FMCSA Compliance During Offline Events

The FMCSA allows temporary outages but requires the following:

  • ✔ Logs must continue to record, even if not transmitted
  • ✔ Drivers must annotate any gaps or errors caused by signal loss
  • ✔ Data must be restored and submitted within 8 days

What to Do During Signal Loss

  1. Do not disconnect the ELD — it continues to work in background
  2. Monitor ELD screen for malfunction codes or warnings
  3. If instructed by dispatch, switch to paper logs temporarily
  4. Annotate your logs with location and reason for delay

Best Practices

  • Choose an ELD with strong offline support and local memory
  • Train drivers on what to do during outages
  • Regularly test offline functionality as part of fleet maintenance
  • Enable driver alerts for syncing success/failure

Case Example

RedRock Transport runs through mountainous terrain with frequent signal drops. They chose Samsara for its strong offline resilience and reduced paper log incidents by 80% after implementation.

FAQs

  • Can I keep driving if the signal drops? Yes, as long as the ELD continues logging locally.
  • What if the ELD stops recording completely? Use paper logs and report malfunction within 8 days.
  • Do all ELDs support offline mode? No. Always check with your provider before purchasing.

Conclusion

Offline-ready ELD systems are essential for long-haul and rural operations. Choose a device that stores data locally and syncs reliably. With proper tools and training, you can avoid non-compliance even when the signal drops in 2025.