J. J. Keller Encompass – ELD with Elog Fleet Management

J. J. Keller Encompass

$199 + $40.50 monthly fee

6.3

Customer Support

5.2/10

Ease of Use

7.1/10

Installation

6.5/10

Suitable for fleets

7.2/10

Features & Technology

5.6/10

Pros

• Stored in the cloud for up to 6 months
• User-friendly
• Suitable for fleets

Cons

• It present issues when AORBD upgrade in 2019 to ELD
• Connection issues
• Poor customer service

Free Custom Quote

JJ Keller Encompass historically pioneered paper logs, once producing over 80% of the market’s paper logbooks. Now that electronic logs have largely replaced paper logs, though certain exemptions still permit the use of paper logs under specific conditions. JJ Keller’s ELD solutions are joining other leaders in the electronic logging market.

Our JJ Keller elogs review will examine the pros, cons, costs, and ease of installation.

Company History

JJ Keller is one of the most respected names in the ELD business due to its long history. JJ Keller’s traditional logbook display has been adapted into modern electronic logging applications. Therefore, JJ Keller specializes in trucking compliance.

It will not be an exaggeration to say that J. J. Keller is the pioneer of truck logging, as the company invented the paper logbook in the 1950s. Over seventy years later, they are still among the leading producers of Electronic Logging Devices, commonly known as ELDs, in the USA.

J.J Keller Encompass

Thinking of transitioning from paper logs to electronic ones? J. J. Keller’s Encompass can make this migration seamless.

Cloud-Based Integration

JJ Keller Encompass is a cloud-based system that captures data from the J. J. Keller ELD device. The data is then displayed through the JJ Keller mobile app. The JJ Keller mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded at no extra cost. All data is securely stored in the cloud, with compliance to current data protection regulations including GDPR and CCPA, ensuring the privacy and security of driver information.

Using the app, your drivers can:

• Update duty status
• Check and certify HOS
• View GPS coordinates
• Perform vehicle inspections
• Browse engine data and vehicle records

The JJ Keller Encompass system resembles an online dashboard of file cabinets. It’s designed to help fleets manage daily business tasks while ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulatory requirements.

All data is securely stored in the cloud, ready for management access. The ELD feeds compliance and engine data to JJ Keller Encompass, allowing management to refine operations and safety. For example, they can initiate JJ Keller encompass training for drivers to curb unnecessary speeding and reduce idle time. The latest updates to the Encompass system feature real-time analytics, AI-driven diagnostic tools, and improved fleet reporting capabilities.

Roadside Inspections Made Easy

The JJ Keller ELD solution streamlines roadside inspections, making them more efficient and effective. It enhances CSA scores, streamlines time management practices, and reduces fuel consumption with advanced analytics. JJ Keller Encompass provides robust protection from DOT audits and interventions. All of J. J. Keller’s electronic logging devices (ELDs) comply with the latest FMCSA ELD regulations and ELD mandates.

The E-Log solution eliminates the need for costly hardware swaps, relying instead on easy-to-implement software updates. JJ Keller Encompass serves as a comprehensive compliance management platform, managing logs, preventive maintenance, driver qualifications, and safety audits.

Record Keeping and Reporting

The system offers substantial improvements in daily operations, such as automation of the IFTA, robust record-keeping, and detailed reporting. All users of the J.J. Keller E-logs system are seamlessly integrated as Encompass users, gaining access to advanced compliance tools and valuable operational insights.

The E-Log device, featuring a compact design, plugs directly into a truck’s diagnostic port and leverages advanced connectivity options to interface with office devices, displaying all necessary information on your tablet or smartphone. This comprehensive solution serves as a single integrated package for your fleet’s needs.

J.J. Keller ELD Pricing Breakdown

Purchasing the ELD system is cost-effective; the black box device itself is priced at $199 per unit. If a trucking company opts to provide its hardware, securing a two-year contract can significantly reduce costs.

The official JJ Keller tablet is currently priced at $349, with a one-time fee of $199 covering both implementation and training. These costs are essential to consider when planning to integrate this ELD system into your fleet.

Subscription fees range from $25 to $50 per month per vehicle, depending on the services selected. If using your device, the cellular data plan costs approximately $45 per month.

Users of the official J.J. Keller tablet would incur an additional $33 to $50 per month for data.

Additional Costs

If you manage more drivers than vehicles, then J.J. Keller Encompass incurs an additional cost of $3.50 per month per driver.

Also, tracking your trailers’ DVIR records and compliance information will cost you $3.50 per month for each truck. The ALK Co-Pilot GPS for drivers’ navigation is $10 per month.

When considering the J.J. Keller E-log, the most economical option is if your drivers use their smartphones. This requires an upfront payment of $199 for the E-log device and a monthly subscription of $25-$50. Over three years, this totals $1,117 per device.

On the higher end, utilizing the J.J. Keller tablet coupled with the Co-Pilot navigation results in an upfront cost of $548 and a monthly fee of $59. Calculating this for a three-year period totals $3,032 per vehicle.

The E-log system includes a device that comes with a data plan, priced at $199 upfront, $25-$50 monthly for the service, and an additional $15 monthly for the data plan. The three-year cost totals $1,657, making it a competitive offer compared to other providers.

The cost of J.J. Keller E-logs can be considerable, so careful budgeting is advised before integration into your fleet.

J.J. Keller’s pricing structure is flexible, not requiring any long-term contracts—payments are made on a month-to-month basis.

While we’ve detailed the primary costs for J.J. Keller’s ELD solutions, additional pricing factors include a monthly service fee for the Encompass® online fleet management system, which can affect your overall budget. It’s vital for fleet managers to consider all potential fees when budgeting.

For fleets making bulk purchases, it’s important to note the system’s limit of 25 units per order. Larger fleets might need to place multiple orders or contact J.J. Keller directly for substantial procurement needs.

In conclusion, J.J. Keller offers a variety of pricing options to meet diverse fleet needs. By thoroughly considering each cost aspect, fleet managers can make informed decisions that align with their operational requirements and budget constraints.

Basic Features of J. J. Keller E-Logs

J.J. Keller e-logs are crafted to ensure seamless use and guarantee compliance with DOT requirements at all times, a testament to J.J. Keller’s industry leadership in compliance solutions.

• Regulatory Compliance: With J.J. Keller’s E-Log solutions, fleets are consistently on the right side of regulations, meeting all DOT requirements effectively.
• Robust Compliance Tools: The back office system of J.J. Keller Encompass offers robust compliance tools, including logs, DVIR, and an optional navigation add-on, along with GPS tracking.
• Enhanced Integration and Performance: The Encompass back office system excels in compliance management, allowing integration with various mobile devices to automate electronic logging, enhance in-cab performance, and support electronic DVIRs in conjunction with EOBRs.

Areas for Improvement

Despite J.J. Keller’s standing as a top eLog provider in the USA, there are areas ripe for enhancement:

• Telematics Features: Their ELD’s telematics features, for instance, could benefit from expansion to offer more detailed vehicle analytics and driver performance insights.
• Pricing Transparency: Pricing clarity is another concern. While cost is a primary consideration when making a purchase, J. J. Keller’s pricing structure can be somewhat perplexing and could benefit from more straightforward explanations.
• Device Usability and Reliability: On the technical front, some users have voiced concerns about device usability and occasional hardware glitches.
• Direct Email Capability: A notable limitation is the inability for drivers to email logs directly from their device to the back office or inspection authorities, a feature that could enhance communication efficiency.

Reasons for Choosing J. J. Keller E-Log

While J.J. Keller is a premier ELD provider in the USA, there is always room for growth:

• Enhanced Telematics: Enhancing their ELD’s telematics features could provide additional operational insights.
• Improved Pricing Clarity: Clarifying the costs associated with J.J. Keller’s services could improve customer satisfaction and aid decision-making.
• Device Usability Enhancements: Addressing concerns about device usability and occasional glitches could enhance the overall user experience.
• Communication Enhancements: A significant innovation to consider is drivers securely emailing logs directly from their devices to the back office or during inspections, which could streamline operations and improve compliance management.

Thus, you will get a fully mixed view of performance and compliance. The seamless integration of the eLog system is guaranteed by the name of J. J. Keller. And this is a company that has been focused on helping fleets improve their compliance and safety for over six decades.

Suitable for All Vehicles

J.J. Keller ELDs offer broad compatibility, making them ideal for managing diverse fleets. These systems ensure compliance with DOT requirements at all times, reinforcing J.J. Keller’s leadership in compliance solutions.

Getting started with J.J. Keller is straightforward. The EOBR device and the mobile app, which are compatible across a wide range of platforms including Windows mobile devices, ensure a smooth setup. Each EOBR is priced at $199, ensuring cost-effectiveness for fleets.

Installation of The EOBR

Upon purchase, you’ll receive all necessary cables and a detailed startup guide, including access to J.J. Keller’s online training videos. The installation process, taking about 10 to 30 minutes, requires the appropriate 6 or 9-pin Deutsch connector to match your vehicle’s diagnostic port.

Each package includes an adapter for connecting the ELD to your vehicle and an ELD cable for comprehensive connectivity. The software is designed to operate on any device with Windows Mobile version 5.0 or higher, or any device equipped with a data plan and Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring wide compatibility.

It’s recommended to verify device compatibility with a J.J. Keller representative to ensure optimal functionality. If your current devices are incompatible, consider upgrading to suitable Windows-based or smart devices equipped with data plans.

Software Installation

To begin, you’ll receive a hyperlink to download the J.J. Keller mobile app onto your devices, whether PDAs, laptops, or smartphones. Once installed, each driver will be assigned unique credentials to access the J.J. Keller log system via the online portal, simplifying the management of records and compliance.

Guides and Support

J.J. Keller’s ELDs come with comprehensive support documentation, including detailed instructions and user manuals. The Driver’s Quick-start Guide is particularly useful for new users, providing essential tips for getting started.

Should you encounter any issues with hardware or software, the Technical Support Guide or customer support team is available to assist. Warranty information is also available to facilitate repairs or replacements if needed.

Dedicated 24/7 technical support is available for both the ELD and the encompass system, ensuring that help is always a call away. The E-Log Welcome Kit provides a detailed introduction, including a setup guide for the encompass system and installation of the ELD unit, designed to ensure a smooth transition and optimal operation of the system.

J.J. Keller also includes a backup logbook in the startup bundle to assist during the transition period or in case of digital system failures.

How To Order?

A J.J. Keller encompass E-log Edition is tied with the Driver Vehicle Inspection Reporting (DVIR) management.

• After placing your ELD order, you will receive an email containing your J.J. Keller login information.
• At a later stage, the standard implementation package, J.J. Keller forklift training, workplace safety training videos, and other webcasts will be delivered to you by the J.J. Keller subject matter expert.
• Each webcast will have unlimited uses to accommodate the entire team of your company. And you will be able to explore all the features of the J.J. Keller encompass system at the most convenient time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about J. J. Keller E-Logs

What is J.J. Keller E-Logs?

J.J. Keller E-Logs is an electronic logging device designed to ensure full compliance with DOT requirements. It offers a seamless transition from paper logs to electronic logs for fleets of all sizes.

How do I install the J.J. Keller mobile app?

Upon initiating your service, you’ll receive a hyperlink via email to install the J.J. Keller mobile app on your drivers’ PDAs, laptops, or smartphones.

Is there any support provided for the ELD device?

Yes, J.J. Keller offers 24/7 technical support for the Encompass users. The device also comes with a comprehensive Technical Support Guide, and a warranty card is available for repairs or replacements.

How secure is the J.J. Keller E-Logs system?

Each driver is assigned a unique username and password to ensure secure access to the system. Usernames and passwords are managed through the J.J. Keller logs web portal.

Are there any additional resources for new drivers?

Yes, new drivers can benefit from the Roadside Inspection Guide and the E-Log Welcome Kit, which provides a step-by-step guide on setting up and using the system.

What are the pros and cons of the J.J. Keller E-Logs system?

Pros: Comprehensive regulatory compliance, quick setup, and a flexible billing system.
Cons: Some users have reported connectivity issues, and the system has limited telematics features.

Is the J.J. Keller E-Logs system compatible with all vehicle types?

The ELD is designed to be compatible with almost all vehicle types and classes, making it ideal for managing diverse fleets.

What is the cost of the J.J. Keller E-Logs system?

The J.J. Keller EOBR comes with an upfront cost of $199. However, costs can vary based on additional features and services you opt for.

How flexible is the J.J. Keller E-Logs system for different fleet sizes?

J.J. Keller’s E-Logs system is designed to cater to both small and large fleets, providing scalable solutions that adapt to varying fleet sizes and needs.

What training options are available for J.J. Keller E-Logs users?

J.J. Keller provides free online training for users and additional support for drivers with little experience with E-Logs, ensuring all users can maximize their efficiency and compliance.

How often are software updates provided for the J.J. Keller E-Logs system?

The J.J. Keller team regularly updates its software to enhance functionality and ensure compliance with the latest DOT regulations, offering continuous improvements and new features.

How does J.J. Keller E-Logs enhance DOT compliance for fleets?

J.J. Keller E-Logs ensure DOT compliance by automating record-keeping, providing real-time HOS tracking, and ensuring accurate data logging, which helps prevent violations and reduce fines.

Can J.J. Keller E-Logs help reduce operational costs for trucking companies?

Yes, by improving compliance and enhancing fleet efficiency, J.J. Keller E-Logs can help reduce costs associated with fines, vehicle maintenance, and fuel consumption by promoting better driving habits and efficient route management.

What makes J.J. Keller E-Logs a reliable choice for truck fleet management?

J.J. Keller E-Logs are known for their robust security features, reliable performance, and excellent customer support, making them a trustworthy choice for fleet managers seeking to streamline operations and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Our Final Word On J. J. Keller E-Logs

J.J. Keller is a leader in the industry. It provides E-Logs and the Encompass system, both known for reliability. These systems ensure fleets meet FMCSA compliance standards and have helped J.J. Keller build a strong reputation over many years.

J.J. Keller E-Logs are a top choice for fleets wanting to move from paper logs to a more user-friendly electronic system. These E-Logs boost efficiency and increase profits. They offer a full suite of features for managing fleet operations effectively.

With the J.J. Keller Encompass Fleet Management portal, you can track important data like:

• Hours of Service (HOS)
• Unit tracking and maintenance
• Alcohol and drug tests
• Driver qualifications
• Accident records
• Fuel tax reports
• Driver performance

J.J. Keller ensures you stay informed about any changes in compliance laws. The system adapts to different fleet sizes and needs. It can handle everything from driver hiring to truck maintenance.

Remember, no single solution fits all fleets. If you’re unsure which J.J. Keller product suits your needs, visit our consultation page. We’re here to help find the best fit for your business.