Training Bulletin - Electronic Documents

The general trend toward electronic documentation has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic as organizations, including FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, and FedEx Freight are attempting to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by exchanging less paper between individuals and leveraging electronic means of communication. In 2018, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a Final Rule clearly stating that electronic documents satisfy FMCSA’s regulatory requirements and that “electronic methods to generate, certify, sign, maintain, or exchange records” is permissible. Despite this clear guidance from the FMCSA, there is a lack of consistency among law enforcement personnel accepting electronic documents during roadside inspections. Now, more than ever, training opportunities on this important issue are critical. FedEx Express and FedEx Freight join FedEx Ground and the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association in the submission of this I/RFA.

The trucking industry as well as law enforcement would benefit from instruction and training by CVSA regarding the acceptance of electronic records during roadside inspections. Examples of electronic copies that should be accepted during roadside inspections include, but are not limited to: driver medical cards (Non-CDL), receipts or bills of lading, and supporting documents for hours of service.

Issuance of a Safety Bulletin instructing law enforcement that electronic copies of requested documents during roadside inspections are sufficient. Specifically, electronic copies of the following documents are acceptable: • Driver (Non-CDL) Medical Cards • Skills Performance Evaluation Certificate (if applicable) • Delivery Receipts or Bills of Lading • Supporting Documents to Verify ELD Records/Record of Duty Status • Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (if applicable) • Periodic Inspection Certificates or Reports