tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58370809206788940582024-02-02T01:51:32.208-07:00SOAR Solutions BlogSafety Operations Analysis Reports. Anytime Anywhere.
We partner with customers around the world to turn safety and compliance information into powerful decision-making tools with our accurate, easy-to-use, and reliable software and data entry solutions for operations on the go.SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-16112039919892594732020-08-12T17:16:00.009-06:002020-08-12T17:40:21.838-06:00Three Tips for Best Practices in DVIR Compliance<div style="text-align: left;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HcvB_L96yyyczhH7TUOF93dPkeMgpboN1gul3dWIIPVNC-8AzArTWejc-XKT7nKPt-FKuWmSyc1a-q-STI7NUukUj-hx8QUih5eYFj43qGW-bWHe-DYmW_N09eSZS7ii6ylAX40tpPw/s400/APP+Einspect+Tire.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="eInspection" border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="400" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HcvB_L96yyyczhH7TUOF93dPkeMgpboN1gul3dWIIPVNC-8AzArTWejc-XKT7nKPt-FKuWmSyc1a-q-STI7NUukUj-hx8QUih5eYFj43qGW-bWHe-DYmW_N09eSZS7ii6ylAX40tpPw/w320-h214/APP+Einspect+Tire.jpg" title="mySOAR Driver app eInspection for DVIRs." width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mySOAR Driver app eInspection for DVIRs.</td></tr></tbody></table>A lot of focus has been on ELDs and HOS compliance. Yet, drivers and carriers are also responsible for DVIR compliance to make sure the equipment on the road is in safe operating condition. We complied three tips for managing your DVIRs. <div><br /></div><div><b>Build Strong Inspection Habits</b></div><div>DVIRs are required once every 24 hours when a tractor, truck or trailer are moved. It gives the driver flexibility to perform inspections throughout their shift and for carriers to set procedures. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div>eInspections have made DVIRs much easier to perform compared to paper. Since there is no limit to how many are performed in a day and drivers are no longer managing their paper supply of DVIR forms, it frees up drivers and carriers to adjust their routine. </div><div><br /></div><div>With eInspections, our data shows that drivers perform DVIRs more frequently in a day. In many cases, drivers have taken a best practices approach often on their own. Carriers are looking to these habit changes to evolve their policies from the paper age. </div><div><br /></div><div>Drivers are typically performing pre-trip and post-trip inspections for trucks and trailers. When they are dropping or picking up trailers throughout the day, they may also inspect the tractor again. Some of the reasons drivers and carriers have shared for increases in eInspections are: </div><div><br /></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>The eInspection in the mySOAR app is easy-to-use. </li><li>The quick eInspection summary gives the driver visibility throughout the day of their equipment and ability to manage any changes. It also isolates the window when a defect occurred. </li><li>The information from the app is pushed to the mySOAR web platform immediately. It helps dispatch and the driver communicate and organize repairs when needed. </li><li>The eInspection automatically posts a status and comment to the driver’s eLog, which quickly lets an inspector or dispatch know when the eInspection was performed.
</li><li>Managers and mechanics can perform eInspections on trucks or equipment using the app or via the web platform without requiring ELD or eLog access.</li></ol><br /></div><div><b>Canada vs the US rules</b></div>Both countries require an eInspection of any equipment moved in a 24-hour period. Where the two differ is the inspection items and defects list. <div><br /></div><div>Transport Canada uses a formal rule with a list of inspection items and minor and major defects with a numbering and lettering system to catalog defects. The document is called the Schedule 1. </div><div><br /></div><div>Commercial drivers must have a copy of the Schedule 1 in their possession while in Canada. Typically, most drivers carry a paper copy in their driver handbook in the vehicle. The mySOAR app includes the Schedule 1 in the documents section for easy reference. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the US, the FMCSA uses a similar inspection and defect list, but it is not a formal rule and document like the Schedule 1. This gives carriers and drivers a little more flexibility when they document defects, however from a reporting standpoint creates confusion. The mySOAR eInspection for US follows the Schedule 1 numbering and lettering so companies can easily review and filter defects and create reports.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Simplify Recordkeeping</b><br /></div><div>Keep your record keeping simple. Easy to manage, find, and retrieve when needed. It will save a lot of time and frustration should you win the audit lottery. </div><div><br /></div><div>The rules require drivers provide the current day plus one of DVIRs on hand for inspectors. The mySOAR app eInspection summary page lists all eInspections performed for current equipment over the last two days, plus the last two days of the driver performed eInspections. This ensures the driver has all DVIRs at the ready. </div><div><br /></div><div>Recordkeeping for the carrier requires the last six months of eInspections are on hand if requested in an audit. The mySOAR web platform is set to hold at least seven months of eInspections. Companies can set the system to retain a longer period as a company policy. </div><div><br /></div><div>By making the eInspection as separate records rather than a section within the eLog in the mySOAR system, we provide quick access to review DVIRs by driver, unit or defects. Clients often use the data to: </div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Ensure eInspections with defects are resolved, </li><li>Manage and schedule needed repairs, </li><li>Review driver DVIR records and coach drivers on their inspection process,</li><li>Track frequency of breakdowns for a unit or driver,</li><li>Communicate quickly with customers should their trailers have defects, and </li><li>Easily store records for reviews and audits such as: annual ISO audits, formal DOT audits and requests, and internal safety procedures. </li></ol></div><div><br /></div><div>DVIRs are an important part of your driver and fleet compliance. Safe equipment creates a safer environment for your drivers and others on the road. SOAR Solutions makes DVIR management part of a client’s overall compliance strategy in simple and effective ways. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.soarsolutionsinc.com" target="_blank">Contact SOAR</a> today to learn more about our compliance solutions.</div></div>SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-2851575390746490392016-05-26T12:02:00.003-06:002016-07-04T15:14:00.360-06:00Beyond Compliance – Four ways to help create a safer work environment for your driversOne of the most challenging workplaces is one we all interact with every day – the public streets. More and more companies are looking for ways to create a safer work environment for their employees that drive a company vehicle. Even though no one can control everything that happens on the road, here are four ways companies can take a proactive approach to workplace safety for their drivers.
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<strong>1. Driver Management</strong>
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Typically, when employees start a new job, the safety department will collect information from a driver. The key is to make sure the copies are current in their driver records. <br />
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Companies will often have a checklist for new driver files. Best industry practices include several pieces of information safety departments should collect and keep on file for a commercial driver employee. Some of the items below are required and should be updated annually or when the license is renewed. This depends on the minimum weight of the vehicle the employee is allowed to drive. <br />
<ol>
<li>Copy of Driver’s License </li>
<li>Copy of Driver Abstract or Motor Vehicle Records </li>
<li>Road Test Certificate 4. Copy of Medical Certificate </li>
<li>Verification that the medical examiner is on the National Registry </li>
<li>Copy of Resume </li>
<li>Accident History Background Check </li>
<li>DOT Drug Screening </li>
<li>Verification the driver has a copy of the company policy and driver handbook </li>
</ol>
Whether in hard copy paper or an electronic file, the goal is to make sure the driver is trained and licensed to operate the vehicle they are required to drive on the job. <br />
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Employees driving a smaller company vehicle that is not considered a commercial vehicle, are not required to produce this documentation. But it is best practices to ensure all employees driving while on company time have a valid driver’s license.
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<strong>2. Hours of Service Management</strong>
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According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial driver employees are required to track their hours of service (HOS) using a record of duty status (RODS) if they drive a vehicle that meets the criteria for commercial driving. The purpose of these rules and the log book is to set parameters on how long a driver can drive in any given period of time, track driver work hours, and create a safer work environment. <br />
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The debate is that HOS limits the ability for drivers to operate and meet the growing expectations for faster service. Drivers are squeezed on the other end by employers, suppliers, and customers with delivery and pick-up deadlines, traffic, road construction, weather, and any number of factors beyond their control. Drivers often feel pressured and push themselves too hard, creating stress beyond the stress of driving. <br />
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Employers, customers, and suppliers, often take the transportation portion of a sale, job, or internal transfer for granted. They pull up an online map or dispatching software, place start and end points, and use the estimated hours as a guide. This is dangerous because it does not account for mandatory driver break times, truck speed limits, which are different than cars, and weather. <br />
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There are some easy ways to help drivers be more successful and lower the stress levels of an already stressful position.
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<ol>
<li>
Internal education for non-driver employees that work with drivers. Teach the basics on what is required of a commercial driver. Many fellow employees may not be aware of the limits. </li>
<li>Add some buffer time into a delivery schedule. Even eight hours can make a difference. </li>
<li>Create an open door for dialogue and check-ins with driver employees to discuss any issues. Empower your drivers to speak up. </li>
<li>Offer additional training opportunities to drivers so they can grow and become better drivers. There may be an area they would like more practice, like backing up, but often will not ask for help.
</li>
</ol>
<strong>3. GPS and Mapping</strong> <br />
GPS is often viewed as a big brother tool to oversee drivers. Although this may be that case for some company cultures, many integrate GPS as a safety tool, especially for employees that work alone, in remote locations, or night time hours. <br />
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This double-edge viewed of GPS should be addressed with all employees that use the service since few, if any, other employees in the organization are tracked to that level of detail. <br />
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A few things you can do to build driver trust and turn GPS into a driver safety resource are:
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<ol>
<li>
Train dispatchers, supervisors, and managers on basic driving and commercial vehicle operations. This way a dispatcher is not radioing a driver for speeding 5mph over the limit for 5 seconds when the driver is coming over the crest of a hill. </li>
<li>Focus on the percent of good driving time. The drivers in your company are professionals doing a skilled job. Reward them for driving well. </li>
<li>Use the GPS to coordinate and plan routing, estimate average driving times between points, and maintenance scheduling.</li>
</ol>
<strong>4. Fleet Management</strong> <br />
Operating safe equipment is critical for a driver and the general public. An ounce of prevention cannot only keep the vehicle on the road, but could save a life. <br />
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When a company has a strong maintenance and safety culture, driver trust increases because they are operating safe equipment. <br />
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Best in class maintenance departments work closely with the safety officer. Together, they make sure key benchmarks are in place and followed company-wide, including:
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<ol>
<li>Routine maintenance, </li>
<li>Preventative maintenance schedule, </li>
<li>Daily inspections, </li>
<li>Complete recordkeeping of past maintenance, and </li>
<li>Equipment specs and information that is easily accessible for mechanics and supervisor.
</li>
</ol>
Drivers and their vehicles are an important public face and safety behavior is contagious. By helping to create a safe work environment for your employee drivers, we can also improve the driving environment for other commercial drivers and the general public.
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Safer roads save money, save time, and lower driver stress.
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SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-52044592848776107742016-03-04T16:38:00.000-07:002016-03-04T17:05:58.226-07:00Infographic: Four Best Practices for Internal DOT File AuditsBe ready for the next random Compliance and Safety Review from DOT with an internal audit process.<br />
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Click on the button below to see our latest infographic with four easy steps to creating your own internal audit process.<br />
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<a class="button buttonorange" href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/Infographic_Internal_DOT_File_Audits" role="button">Check It Out!</a>
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-72601396313441699332015-12-16T18:30:00.000-07:002015-12-17T11:53:05.323-07:00Final US ELD Mandate Key Dates PublishedThe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published the Electronic Logging Devices and Hours of Service Supporting Documents <a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/rulemaking/2015-31336" target="_blank">Final Rule</a> with the <strong>effective date</strong> of February 16, 2016.<br />
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When the rule was announced on December 10, 2016, FMCSA said carriers and drivers would have two years from the effective date to comply. In the <a href="https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2015-12-16/pdf/2015-31336.pdf" target="_blank">final ELD rule</a> the <strong>compliance date</strong> is December 18, 2017. So technically, the compliance window is two years from December 18, 2015.<br />
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It is important to note that petitions for reconsideration can be submitted until January 15, 2016.<br />
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<strong>What does this all mean?</strong><br />
We have four keys dates:<br />
December 16, 2015 - The Final Rule is published in the Federal Register<br />
January 15, 2016 - Deadline to submit Petitions for Reconsideration<br />
February 16, 2016 - Effective Date of the Final Rule and the date when ELD providers can begin registering their products with the FMCSA.<br />
December 18, 2017 - Compliance Deadline<br />
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Until January 15, 2016, anyone in the public can submit a Petition for Reconsideration. So until we pass the January deadline, the rule and dates can be contested.<br />
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<a href="https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2015-12-16/pdf/2015-31336.pdf" target="_blank">Click here</a> to view the ELD Final Rule PDF.SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-64933607456727025632015-12-10T21:34:00.000-07:002015-12-10T21:34:04.847-07:00Final Electronic Logging Device Rule in the US is Now a RealityThe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced on December 10, 2015 that the electronic logging device (ELD) regulation for hours of service (HOS) and record of duty status (RODS) is final. <br />
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The <a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/electronic-logging-devices" target="_blank">ELD Rule</a> covers the following four key areas:
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<ol>
<li>Mandates ELDs for drivers currently using RODS and a two-year adoption period; </li>
<li>New supporting document requirements for carriers and drivers to comply with HOS regulations;</li>
<li>Procedures and provisions to protect drivers from harassment resulting from ELD information; and</li>
<li>
Technology specifications for ELD performance and design requirements to ensure manufacturers are able to produce compliant devices and systems.
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</ol>
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<strong>Who is ELD Rule exempt?</strong><br />
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There are three instances where a carrier is not required to use ELDs although the carrier may still choose to use one.
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<ol>
<li>Drivers who use paper logs no more than 8 days during any 30-day period. </li>
<li>Driveaway-towaway drivers (transporting an empty vehicle for sale, lease, or repair). </li>
<li>Drivers of vehicles manufactured before model year 2000. </li>
</ol>
Drivers domiciled Canadian and Mexican will be required to use ELDs when operating in the U.S.<br />
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The ELD rule also includes an <a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/implementation-timeline" target="_blank">implementation timeline</a> giving drivers and carriers a two-year grace period to comply with the requirements. In addition, ELD providers like SOAR Solutions will need to be certified and registered with the FMCSA. <br />
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For the complete final rule <a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/electronic-logging-devices-and-hours-service-supporting-documents" target="_blank">click here</a>.
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-35825135147655244782015-10-21T11:55:00.000-06:002015-10-21T11:55:05.615-06:00Get Ready for the Final Rule on ELDs with the SOAR Solutions Driver APP and ELD Module The movement to replace paper log books with Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) is getting closer. The final rule publishing date has been pushed out to October 30, 2015.
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<strong>What does this mean for carriers and drivers?</strong> <br />
The switch from paper to electronic will take some socializing with drivers and non-drivers as they get acquainted with the new rules and how this will affect day-to-day operations.
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Moving to electronic logs gives carriers new opportunities to increase efficiencies, visibility and tracking more operational data that was not available or viable with paper. <br />
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<strong>How will ELDs help my business?</strong><br />
Increased efficiencies: <br />
<ul>
<li>
Less time calculating remaining hours in a day, cycle.
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<li>Less time auditing log books.
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<li>Less hours of service and form and manner errors. Leading to a better compliance record and reducing the amount of fines paid.
</li>
</ul>
Increase visibility:
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<ul>
<li>Supporting documentation such as log books, vehicle inspections are submitted much faster, allowing for faster action to be taken if required. For example, defects noted on a vehicle inspection can be relayed to the fleet manager as soon as they are noted, rather than days or even weeks after.</li>
<li>Vehicle and trailer information available for quick reference, for situations such as break downs.</li>
<li>Upcoming preventative maintenance dates for vehicle and trailers, managers and drivers can better communicate and schedule the service due.
</li>
</ul>
<strong>What benefits come from using SOAR Solutions safety software and ELD?</strong>
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<ul>
<li>Connecting directly to the vehicle provides vital information from location tracking and driver behavior to engine codes. </li>
<li>
The driver app is an easy way for drivers to complete logs and inspections.
</li>
<li>Fleet managers can receive alerts the moment a defect is spotted by a driver and marked on an e-inspection.
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<li>Fewer form and manner violations are recorded by using a consistent format and auto-populating administrative fields.
</li>
</ul>
<strong>What is the SOAR Solutions APP and ELD difference?</strong>
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<ul>
<li>With the app linked to the software, fleet managers and safety officers can view inspections and logs as soon as they are submitted, for up to the minute coaching. </li>
<li>With the app linked to the software, drivers have access to a variety of features including driver and training alerts, preventative maintenance schedule for their current vehicle, </li>
<li>Our proprietary e-accident form, is a great tool for drivers and managers to respond quickly and capture information in the moment. </li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/Learn_More" target="_blank"><strong>Get the SOAR Solutions APP and ELD today!</strong></a>
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-37886551084283548302015-03-19T11:19:00.002-06:002015-03-19T11:19:41.581-06:0034-hour Restart Rule Suspension Debate ContinuesThe 34-hour restart rules were back in the news again earlier this month as New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker announced his plans to restore the 34-hour restart rule that was suspended on December 16, 2014.
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<strong>Background on suspended the rule</strong>
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To qualify for a restart a driver must meet the following requirements:
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<ul>
<li>168 hours from the start of the break, as long as you took 34 consecutive hours off duty.
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<li>Must include two consecutive periods between 1am and 5am during the 34-Hours off-duty </li>
</ul>
On December 16, 2014, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015, suspended these restart rules, until September 30, 2015.
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During this suspension period the FMCSA has engaged The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute to study the safety impact of the 34-Hour restart rule. The results of the study should be due prior to the expiry of the suspension period.
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Drivers can now use the pre-July 2013 restart rules and take 34 consecutive hours off-duty, with no restrictions to restart their hours. This means drivers may be able to use the 16-Hour shift exemption more often than once every 7 days.
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The question is: Will lawmakers wait until the safety impact study is completed to attempt to reinstate the suspended rules and will the suspension be extended?
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-85754687086188707832015-03-05T13:04:00.005-07:002015-03-05T13:09:42.396-07:00FMCSA Updates ELD and HOS Proposed Final Rule DateOn February 27, 2015 the FMCSA released a supplement to their February 2015 monthly report. The report included a clerical correction to the ELD and HOS supporting documents proposed final rule publication date. <br />
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The projected date for the final rule has been moved from November 9, 2015 to September 30, 2015.
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The objectives of the rulemaking are to:
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Set a minimum performance and design standard for Hours of Service (HOS) Electronic Logging Devices (ELD)
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<li>Requirements for the mandatory use of ELD devices by drivers that prepare HOS records of duty status
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<li>Requirements for supporting HOS documents</li>
<li>Measures to address concerns about harassment from the mandatory use of ELDs
</li>
</ul>
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-26885671729815390262015-01-16T19:13:00.000-07:002015-03-10T11:39:33.877-06:00Two Paperwork Must Dos To Comply with Canada Transportation Dangerous Goods ActOn December 31, 2014, the Canada Gazette published the latest amendments to the Canada Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Act. According to <a href="http://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2014/2014-12-31/html/sor-dors306-eng.php" target="_blank">Volume 148, No. 27</a>, Amendment 26, <strong>3.5 Information on a Shipping Document </strong>will be changed to standardize the order of information when completing the description of the dangerous good.<br />
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<strong>Amendment 26 excerpt from Canada Gazette Volume 148, No. 27</strong><br />
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<table align="center" bgcolor="#eff8fd" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr align="left" valign="top"><td><span style="font-size: x-small;">Amendment 26 </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"(1) Subparagraphs 3.5(1)(c)(i) to (vi) of the Regulations are replaced by the following: </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(i) the UN number,<br />(ii) the shipping name and, immediately after the shipping name unless it is already part of it, (A) for dangerous goods that are subject to special provision 16, the technical name, in parentheses, of at least one of the most dangerous substances that predominantly contributes to the hazard or hazards posed by the dangerous goods, and<br />(B) for a liquefied petroleum gas that has not been odorized, the words “Not Odourized” or “Not Odorized” or “Sans odorisant”,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(iii) the primary class, which may be shown as a number only or under the heading “Class” or “Classe” or following the word “Class” or “Classe”,<br />(iv) for dangerous goods with a primary class of Class 1, Explosives, the compatibility group letter following the primary class,<br />(v) the subsidiary class or classes, in parentheses, which may be shown as a number only or under the heading “subsidiary class” or “classe subsidiaire” or following the words “subsidiary class” or “classe subsidiaire”, except that, for transport by aircraft or by ship, the subsidiary class or classes may be shown after the information required by this paragraph,<br />(vi) the packing group roman numeral, which may be shown under the heading “PG” or “GE” or following the letters “PG” or “GE” or following the words “Packing Group” or “Groupe d’emballage”, and<br />(vii) for dangerous goods that are subject to special provision 23, the words “toxic by inhalation” or “toxic – inhalation hazard” or “toxique par inhalation” or “toxicité par inhalation”;"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(2) The italicized text after paragraph 3.5(1)(c) of the Regulations is replaced by the following:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Examples of descriptions of dangerous goods are: <br />UN1203, GASOLINE, 3, II <br />UN1203, GASOLINE, Class 3, PG II <br />UN1214, ISOBUTYLAMINE, Class 3, Subsidiary Class (8), II <br />UN1214, ISOBUTYLAMINE, Class 3(8), Packing Group II </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(3) Subsections 3.5(4) and (5) of the Regulations is replaced by the following:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(4) Despite paragraph (1)(d), if the quantity of dangerous goods in a means of containment is less than 10 per cent of the maximum fill limit of the means of containment, the words “Residue — Last Contained” or “Résidu — dernier contenu” may be added before or after the description of the dangerous goods. These words must not, however, be used for dangerous goods included in Class 2, Gases, that are in a small means of containment or for dangerous goods included in Class 7, Radioactive Materials.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">For example: <br />Residue — Last Contained, UN1203, GASOLINE, 3, II <br /> UN1203, GASOLINE, 3, II, Residue — Last Contained </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(5) If the quantity of dangerous goods required on a shipping document under paragraph (1)(d) or the number of small means of containment required under paragraph (1)(e) changes during transport, the carrier must show those changes on the shipping document or on a document attached to the shipping document.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(4) Section 3.5 of the Regulations is amended by adding the following after the italicized text after subsection (5):</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The quantity of dangerous goods is expressed in kilograms for solids, in litres for liquids and in kilograms or litres for gases. It may also be expressed as a number of items.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(5) Subsection 3.5(7) of the Regulations is repealed. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(6) The italicized text after subsection 3.5(7) of the Regulations is struck out."</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Please bookmark: <a href="https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/tdg/clear-part3-317.htm#sec35" target="_blank"><strong>3.5 Information on a Shipping Document</strong></a><strong> </strong>to watch for the change to the TDG Act.<br />
<br />
<strong>Consignor's Certification Regulation starts July 15, 2015</strong><br />
Although the starting date is July 15, 2015, best practices would be to amend all dangerous goods paperwork to include the “Consignor’s Certification”, along with a space for the individual’s printed name and signature. <br />
<br />
<strong><a href="https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/tdg/clear-part3-317.htm#sec361" target="_blank">3.6.1 Consignor’s Certification SOR/2014-152</a></strong><br />
<br />
For the complete TDG Act: Go to Transport Canada's website safety section or <a href="https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/tdg/clear-tofc-211.htm" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
<br />
<strong>We encourage all of our clients and subscribers to read the Canada Gazette </strong><a href="http://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2014/2014-12-31/html/sor-dors306-eng.php" target="_blank"><strong>Volume 148, No. 27</strong></a><strong> for the complete list of published amendments. </strong>SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-86372723969092852352014-06-03T14:31:00.000-06:002014-06-03T14:33:01.169-06:00Workflow Series 2 of 4: Who does workflow impact?Workflow. The operational buzz word thrown around in meetings. But what does it really mean? <em>Who does it impact?</em> Why does it matter? And how can looking at workflow in different ways create more value?<br />
<br />
This four part series looks at workflow in a way that makes business sense out of business school jargon.<br />
<br />
<strong>Who does workflow impact?</strong><br />
Simply put, workflow impacts the entire organization. As with any team environment, for operations to function smoothly, the workflow of each department needs to be in sync. And good managers and leaders understand that no one department is greater than the whole. Each brings a specific set of skills and values that complement one another.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Additionally, managers and executive leadership are impacted. Those that appreciate the details of workflow tend to use numbers and data to ask the right questions of how to improve the work environment and create efficiencies.<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>The series example part 2: Who is impacted?</strong><br />
Jimmy runs a successful business. He has several hundred employees ranging from front office and production to distribution and delivery. In any given day, thousands of tasks are performed to manufacture and sell one order. <br />
<br />
Jimmy has managers that run each department and set schedules to meet demand. These managers work together to complete the orders. In our first series on what, we used the shipping department in our example. <br />
<br />
If we continue with the shipping Paul, the shipping manager, oversees a team of shippers, drivers and dispatchers that are all impacted by the department workflow.<br />
<br />
The performance of the shipping department impacts all levels of the organization. Right up to Jimmy, the CEO. Beyond serving internal customers across departments, the impact of the shipping department has one additional element. The delivery drivers have direct contact with the customer. Their timeliness and accuracy are critical.<br />
<br />
<br />SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-27106847900663732962014-04-28T12:48:00.002-06:002014-04-28T12:48:13.826-06:00Workflow Series 1 of 4: What does workflow really mean?Workflow. The operational buzz word thrown around in meetings. But <em>what does it really mean?</em> Who does it impact? Why does it matter? And how can looking at workflow in different ways create more value?<br />
<br />
This four part series will look at workflow in a way that makes business sense out of business school jargon.<br />
<br />
<strong>What does workflow really mean?</strong><br />
The simple definition is the process or steps used to perform work. That can be anything from a task, a product, a service...since they all require at least one step to complete.<br />
<a name='more'></a>So really, everything we do essentially has a workflow. The key to understanding what our workflow is comes down to listing the individual tasks and the inputs needed (i.e. time, labor, parts, etc.) and mapping out the order of the tasks. We do most of this already, and don't even realize we are actively managing workflow to run daily operations.<br />
<br />
Once we look at workflow from a more practical perspective, one can see that any business has some type of workflow. And the goal is to manage that workflow in a meaningful and productive way.<br />
<br />
<strong>The series example part 1: What?</strong><br />
Jimmy runs a successful business. He has several hundred employees ranging from front office and production to distribution and delivery. In any given day, thousands of tasks are performed to manufacture and sell one order. <br />
<br />
Jimmy has managers that run each department and set schedules to meet demand. These managers work together to complete the orders. Let's take the shipping department. Paul, the shipping manager, oversees the daily tasks in the chart below. This is what the shipping department's workflow looks like.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" border="0" bordercolor="" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="border-image: none; border: solid rgb(0, 128, 0); width: 500px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong>Order received</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="1">
<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" />
</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong> Dispatch plans load and routes</strong></div>
</td>
<td><strong>
</strong>
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong> Shipper fills order</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="1">
<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" />
</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong>Dispatch schedules delivery</strong></div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
<strong>Shipper packs order for shipment</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="1">
<br />
<div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" />
</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong>Orders loaded onto trucks</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong>Trucks out for delivery</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.b2i.cc/logos/2186/orange_down_arrow.png" height="65" style="height: 56px; width: 32px;" width="85" /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="1"><div align="center">
<strong>Orders delivered</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-56221017777958144392014-03-05T13:03:00.002-07:002016-03-28T11:36:22.524-06:00Spring Weight Restrictions Canadian Provinces and TerritoriesThe spring road weight restrictions for Canadian provinces and territories can be found at the links below.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
If you are ever in doubt about weight restrictions, please contact the jurisdiction directly for more information.<br />
<br />
British Columbia<br />
<a href="http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighways/loadrestrictions/loadrestrictions.htm" target="_blank">http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighways/loadrestrictions/loadrestrictions.htm</a><br />
Alberta<br />
<a href="http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/522.htm" target="_blank">http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/522.htm</a><br />
Saskatchewan<br />
<a href="http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/springroad-restrictions/" target="_blank">http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/springroad-restrictions/</a><br />
Manitoba<br />
<a href="https://www.gov.mb.ca/mit/srr/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.gov.mb.ca/mit/srr/index.html</a><br />
Ontario<br />
<a href="http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/loadnotice.shtml" target="_blank">http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/loadnotice.shtml</a><br />
Quebec<br />
<a href="http://www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca/portal/page/portal/entreprises_en/camionnage/charges_dimensions/periode_degel" target="_blank">http://www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca/portal/page/portal/entreprises_en/camionnage/charges_dimensions/periode_degel</a><br />
New Brunswick<br />
<a href="http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/dti/trucking/content/spring_weight_restrictions.html" target="_blank">http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/dti/trucking/content/spring_weight_restrictions.html</a><br />
Nova Scotia<br />
<a href="http://novascotia.ca/tran/trucking/springweight.asp" target="_blank">http://novascotia.ca/tran/trucking/springweight.asp</a><br />
Prince Edward Island<br />
<a href="http://www.gov.pe.ca/tir/" target="_blank">http://www.gov.pe.ca/tir/</a><br />
Yukon<br />
<a href="http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/trans/transportservices/carriercompliance/weightrestrictions.html" target="_blank">http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/trans/transportservices/carriercompliance/weightrestrictions.html</a><br />
<br />
Please contact the links below for more information on weight restrictions in the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Newfoundland and Labrador.<br />
<br />
Northwest Territories<br />
<a href="http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/home.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/home.aspx</a><br />
Nunavut<br />
<a href="http://www.edt.gov.nu.ca/apps/authoring/dspPage.aspx?page=home" target="_blank">http://www.edt.gov.nu.ca/apps/authoring/dspPage.aspx?page=home</a><br />
Newfoundland and Labrador<br />
<a href="http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/" target="_blank">http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/</a> <!-- Start of StatCounter Code for Default Guide --> <script type="text/javascript">
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<br />SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-79200479897469303372014-02-03T12:00:00.001-07:002014-02-03T12:27:37.250-07:00Do you agree with the FMCSA Published 34-Hour Reset Field Study?The recently published 34-hour reset field study on the FMCSA website. The <a href="http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/about/news/news-releases/2014/release-14-01-30.aspx" target="_blank">press release</a> highlights their key conclusions based on a sample of 106 drivers (44 local, 26 regional, and 36 over-the-road). <br />
Scientific inferences being promoted as conclusions from the study include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Less fatigue, </li>
<li>Deviated from their lane less, and</li>
<li>Fewer accidents and injuries.</li>
</ul>
<br />
While the study is interesting, the sample size is quite small and controlled, representing less that 0.001% of the registered commercial vehicles in the U.S. Additionally, the conclusions are more inference than fact based. As we read through <a href="http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/facts-research/research-technology/report/Efficacy-of-HOS-Restart-Rule-Report.pdf" target="_blank">the 52-page study</a>, the language became less definitive and more opinion than fact. <br />
<br />
We feel that broader and more independent studies need to be conducted that are not sponsored by the FMCSA as a public relations strategy to validate the claims used to promote the 34-hour reset rule decision.SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-58476186852841163872013-10-29T15:00:00.004-06:002013-10-29T15:06:27.784-06:00Three reasons why to automate your exisiting processIt seems like everyone has the secret recipe to improve your business. The consulting and software market is full of great ideas and reports that will make you the next operations guru. <br />
<br />
But what if your current process is doing the job, then what? Here are three reason why automating your existing process makes sense.<br />
<br />
<strong>1. You know your business better than anyone.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>2. Your process works great. Automation takes out the manual labor, but keeps your system in place.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>3. Everyone has different compliance and regulations; a software solution that focuses on your business needs, trims the software bloat.</strong>SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-35738522910520972842013-06-17T14:05:00.003-06:002013-06-17T15:49:36.267-06:00US Hours of Service Example: Drivers Final Rule for 34-Hour Reset Rules<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The FMCSA has published its final rule regarding driver <a href="http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/index.htm">hours of service</a> effective July 1, 2013. To help our <a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/Customers">customers</a> navigate the new 34-hour reset rules, <a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/">SOAR Solutions</a> has created the example below in table format as a reference guide.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SOAR Solutions is committed to driver safety and compliance with <a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/Driver_Management_Software">web-based driver management software</a>. Contact us today to <a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/Learn_More">learn more</a>.</span>
<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="font-family: Arial; line-height: normal;">
<tbody>
<tr align="center" bgcolor="#7fc245" style="font-weight: bold;">
<td width="20%"></td>
<td width="10%">Saturday</td>
<td width="10%">Sunday</td>
<td width="10%"> Monday</td>
<td width="10%"> Tuesday</td>
<td width="10%"> Wednesday</td>
<td width="10%"> Thursday</td>
<td width="10%">Friday</td>
<td width="10%">Saturday</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Start of reset period</td>
<td align="center">Midnight (00:00)</td>
<td></td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#c7e6a8">
<td>1am-5am periods in reset</td>
<td align="center">1st</td>
<td align="center">2nd</td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eligible to start work shift</td>
<td></td>
<td align="center">10:00AM</td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td> </td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor="#c7e6a8" style="text-align: center;">
<td style="text-align: left;">Number of hours from start of day before eligible to start reset period</td>
<td>168</td>
<td>144</td>
<td> 120</td>
<td> 96</td>
<td> 72</td>
<td> 48</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>Can start reset any time after Midnight (00:00)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: US Hours of Service effective July 1, 2013
<br />
<a href="http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/index.htm">http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/index.htm</a></span>
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<!-- End of StatCounter Code for Default Guide -->SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-39822757577486095922013-04-05T15:03:00.001-06:002013-06-17T15:48:59.738-06:00Canadian Provinces and Territories 2013 Spring Weight RestrictionsAs we are well into spring in North America, SOAR Solutions would like to make available the following links for spring road weight restrictions information in the Canadian provinces and territories.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
If you are ever in doubt about weight restrictions, please contact the jurisdiction directly for more information.<br />
<br />
British Columbia<br />
<a href="http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighways/loadrestrictions/loadrestrictions.htm" target="_blank">http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighways/loadrestrictions/loadrestrictions.htm</a><br />
Alberta<br />
<a href="http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/522.htm" target="_blank">http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/522.htm</a><br />
Saskatchewan<br />
<a href="http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/springroad-restrictions/" target="_blank">http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/springroad-restrictions/</a><br />
Manitoba<br />
<a href="https://www.gov.mb.ca/mit/srr/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.gov.mb.ca/mit/srr/index.html</a><br />
Ontario<br />
<a href="http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/loadnotice.shtml" target="_blank">http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/loadnotice.shtml</a><br />
Quebec<br />
<a href="http://www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca/portal/page/portal/entreprises_en/camionnage/charges_dimensions/periode_degel" target="_blank">http://www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca/portal/page/portal/entreprises_en/camionnage/charges_dimensions/periode_degel</a><br />
New Brunswick<br />
<a href="http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/dti/trucking/content/spring_weight_restrictions.html" target="_blank">http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/dti/trucking/content/spring_weight_restrictions.html</a><br />
Nova Scotia<br />
<a href="http://novascotia.ca/tran/trucking/springweight.asp" target="_blank">http://novascotia.ca/tran/trucking/springweight.asp</a><br />
Prince Edward Island<br />
<a href="http://www.gov.pe.ca/tir/" target="_blank">http://www.gov.pe.ca/tir/</a><br />
Yukon<br />
<a href="http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/trans/transportservices/carriercompliance/weightrestrictions.html" target="_blank">http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/trans/transportservices/carriercompliance/weightrestrictions.html</a><br />
<br />
Please contact the links below for more information on weight restrictions in the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Newfoundland and Labrador.<br />
<br />
Northwest Territories<br />
<a href="http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/home.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/home.aspx</a><br />
Nunavut<br />
<a href="http://www.edt.gov.nu.ca/apps/authoring/dspPage.aspx?page=home" target="_blank">http://www.edt.gov.nu.ca/apps/authoring/dspPage.aspx?page=home</a><br />
Newfoundland and Labrador<br />
<a href="http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/" target="_blank">http://www.tw.gov.nl.ca/</a>
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<!-- End of StatCounter Code for Default Guide -->SOAR Solutionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05212199796035647912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837080920678894058.post-52685019473366167902012-11-12T12:08:00.000-07:002013-06-17T15:48:46.824-06:00Three Tips to Successfully Integrate Canadian Customs eManifest (ACI) into Your Operations<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial;">This blog entry discusses a topic relevant to our trucking customers; the benefits of an early adoption of the Canadian Customs eManifest also known as <a href="https://www.myb2i.com/profiles/businessframed/:%20http:/www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/aci-ipec/menu-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Advanced Commercial Information (ACI)</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;">. Although the ACI program extends beyond just Canada and U.S. truck shipments, we will focus on that aspect for this blog entry.</span> <br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">In Fall 2008, <a href="http://cbp.gov/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Customs and Border Protection (CBP)</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> changed the process for pre-arrival of commercial shipments into the U.S. Trucking companies crossing into the United States from Canada were required to submit an electronic manifest <a href="http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/automated/modernization/ace/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Automated Commercial Environment (ACE)</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;">. The goal of the new process was to arm the CBP agents with pre-arrival information to help better assess the commercial vehicles, drivers, and shipments they would be dealing with at their respective points of entry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Canada Customs (CBSA)</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> did not have an equivalent system in place to submit an eManifest for shipments coming into Canada. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">This changed as of November 1, 2012, when the CBSA began their informed compliance period for the submission of advanced eManifests. To ensure a smooth transition to the new system, the CBSA has instituted a waiver period until Fall 2013. The CBSA has said that, no penalties or denied entry based on failure to use the system will be enforced through this waiver period. Instead, information and warnings to comply will be provided to the carrier regarding the requirements for eManifest submissions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">CBSA will give as much 45 days notice prior to the mandatory compliance date. Carriers may be subject to penalties or denied entry for non-submission or failing to submit a minimum of one hour prior to arriving at the port of entry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">CBSA has a very similar goal in mind as CBP: To arm their front line agents with advanced information regarding shipments they will be dealing with at their point of entry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Since the ACI system is now in effect for the informed compliance phase and the Fall 2013 deadline will be arriving faster then we realize, here are </span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong>three tips</strong> to early adoption of the ACI. These steps should help to smoothly integrate the ACI into your operations.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">Paper Copy of eManifest Portal Lead Sheet</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The Canadian system differs from the United States system in that it includes an additional requirement. The CBSA requires that drivers present a paper copy of the eManifest Portal Lead Sheet to the CBSA agent at the port of entry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Previously CBSA would stamp the Canada Customs Invoice and the Bill of Lading. With the implementation of the new system, CBSA may only stamp the lead sheet. The stamp is important, as this demonstrates proof of report to the CBSA.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The challenge with this requirement resides with the driver already being on the road heading to his or her destination, and having to coordinate delivering the lead sheet to the driver prior to arrival at the port of entry. The three approaches to delivering paperwork are:</span></div>
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<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Carriers arrange with administrative staff at the point of shipping to email or fax the lead sheet, which is then given to the driver; </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">In cases of multiple shipments on one lead sheet, the paperwork is transmitted to the last shipper’s administrative staff, which is then given to the driver; or, </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Coordinating to transmit the lead sheet via fax to a designated truck stop at a time when the driver is able to receive the paperwork.</span> </li>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">Educating Administrative Staff on the ACI Portal</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Whether you are using an electronic data interchange (EDI) or the <a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/portal-portail-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">CBSA eManifest Portal</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> to submit the eManifest, entering accurate and complete data is important. Failure to complete several important fields accurately may result is delays at the border.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Some good tips from the CBSA regarding the online submission form are:</span></div>
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<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Creating “Look ups” for regular shippers, consignees, conveyances and trailers. The “Look ups” should decrease clerical errors;</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Complete legal names and addresses are required; </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Avoid using abbreviations even for state and provinces; and,</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Cargo description should be completed “sufficient to identify for customs purposes”. Anything too generic may cause delays at the border.</span> </li>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.soarsolutionsinc.com/external.asp?b=2186&from=dl&ID=140471" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Click here</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> for a more detailed list of CBSA data entry tips.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">Educating Drivers on ACI Requirements</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Drivers need to know what:</span></div>
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<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Information administrative staff will require to submit the eManifest;</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The driver’s requirements are; and, </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The CBSA will be expecting.</span> </li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">It is important to work with drivers and create a solid communications plan informing them of what to expect when they arrive at the Canadian port of entry. This should decrease potential crossing delays and will improve driver confidence when submitting their paperwork. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The end goal is to minimize disruptions to your company’s operations and by adopting the ACI requirements early on, this affords you more time to iron out any kinks in your company’s implementation and integration of the eManifest requirements. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">More detailed information on the ACI requirements and your responsibilities can be found at Canada Customs on the <a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/requirements-exigences-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Requirements for Commercial Clients</span></a></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> page.<strong></strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">Quick Links:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/automated/modernization/ace/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Customs and Border Protection – Automated Commercial Environment</span></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/aci-ipec/menu-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Canada Customs – Advanced Commercial Information</span></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/portal-portail-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Canada Customs – eManifest Portal</span></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/requirements-exigences-eng.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Canada Customs – Requirements for Commercial Clients</span></a></span></div>
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