ESSE Inc

The ESSE Blog

Insights on freight operations, compliance, ELD, and the future of trucking.

Understanding FMCSA HOS Regulations in 2026

Hours of Service rules are one of the most misunderstood areas of trucking regulation. Here's what every CDL driver and carrier needs to know in 2026 — the 11-hour limit, the 14-hour window, sleeper berth splits, and how your ELD enforces all of it automatically.

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How to Choose the Right ELD for Your Fleet

With dozens of FMCSA-registered ELD devices on the market, picking the right one comes down to cost, reliability, and support. Here's our breakdown of the key factors every fleet manager should evaluate before committing to a device and monthly subscription.

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Driver Onboarding Checklist: Everything You Need

A complete CDL driver qualification file requires more than a license and a handshake. Here's the complete checklist for FMCSA-compliant driver onboarding — from the application and MVR to PSP reports, drug testing, and annual reviews.

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Why Small Carriers Need a TMS

Small fleets are most likely to be running on spreadsheets and phone calls. Here's why a transportation management system pays for itself in the first month — and what to look for in a TMS built specifically for carriers under 50 trucks.

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The Future of Autonomous Trucking

Level 4 autonomy on fixed interstate routes is closer than most people think. Here's what the transition looks like for carriers and drivers — which jobs are most affected, which aren't, and how the industry is preparing for a future where trucks drive themselves on certain corridors.

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