Why Mileage Logs and ELD Data Matter
Whether you’re an owner-operator or managing a fleet, accurate tracking of your miles is essential for staying compliant with state and federal regulations.
Mileage logs or Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data are required for:
- IFTA fuel tax filings
- IRP apportioned plate reporting
- State mileage-based taxes (KYU, NY HUT, OR Weight-Mile)
- DOT audits and compliance reviews
Mileage Logs vs. ELD Data: What’s the Difference?
- Mileage Logs: Manually recorded trip sheets that document starting location, ending location, miles per state, and date of travel.
- ELD Data: Digital logs automatically captured by your truck’s ELD, including location, mileage, driving hours, and HOS compliance.
Both are acceptable for filings—but ELD data is more accurate, audit-proof, and easier to manage.
What You’ll Need to Track
- Start and end odometer readings per trip
- State-by-state mileage (miles traveled in each jurisdiction)
- Dates and times of operation
- Truck number and driver ID (for fleets)
- Trip origin and destination
How Truckers Desk Helps
We help you turn your mileage data into accurate reports that make quarterly filings easy. Our services include:
- Importing and reviewing ELD data from any provider
- Manual log templates for non-ELD operations
- Converting logs into IFTA-ready mileage summaries
- Spot-checking for inconsistencies or missing data
- Ongoing compliance support to prep for audits
Common Mileage Tracking Mistakes
- Missing odometer readings
- Incorrect or incomplete trip sheets
- Logging only total miles instead of by state
- Not storing mileage data for audit periods (4 years)
- Relying on GPS without proper documentation
Best Practices
- Download and back up your ELD data quarterly
- Keep manual logs for non-ELD trucks or backup
- Match mileage to fuel receipts for accurate IFTA reporting
- Use a single log format across your fleet for consistency
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ELD data for IFTA?
- Yes, but only if it includes accurate odometer and state-by-state mileage data. We help ensure it’s properly formatted.
- Do I need to keep mileage logs if I have an ELD?
- Yes. ELDs help, but you’re still required to maintain accessible logs that meet IFTA and IRP standards.
- What if I use different systems?
- We consolidate data from multiple systems or drivers into one clean report—no matter what platform you’re using.
Let’s Keep Your Mileage in Check
Don’t leave your filings—or your authority—at risk. Truckers Desk will help you capture, store, and report mileage the right way. Whether you’re using an ELD or paper logs, we’ve got you covered.
Need help organizing your mileage data? Let’s get started.