What’s the Best App or System for Truckers’ Logbooks? (U.S. & Canada Edition)

For truckers, keeping an accurate and compliant logbook isn’t just part of the job—it’s the law. With electronic logbooks now mandated in both the United States and Canada, paper logs have mostly been replaced by mobile apps and ELD systems that automatically track hours-of-service (HOS), vehicle movement, and more.

Whether you're an owner-operator crossing the border or managing a domestic Canadian fleet, this blog breaks down the best logbook systems, key features, and important differences between U.S. and Canadian ELD requirements.

Why Logbook Apps Matter More Than Ever

Both U.S. and Canadian truckers are required to track their HOS electronically via ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices)—but the rules vary slightly across the border.

U.S. Requirements:

• Regulated by: FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
• ELD Mandate Effective: December 18, 2017
• Applies to: Most commercial drivers operating in the U.S. for interstate commerce

Canadian Requirements:

• Regulated by: Transport Canada
• ELD Mandate Effective: January 1, 2023 (Full enforcement as of January 2023)
• Applies to: Federally regulated carriers (includes most long-haul truckers)
• Extra Note: Devices must be certified by a third party, unlike in the U.S. where self-certification is allowed.

Bottom Line: Whether you're driving in the U.S. or Canada, you must use a certified ELD that complies with local regulations.

What to Look for in a Logbook App or System

No matter where you operate, here are the must-have features:

• FMCSA & Transport Canada Compliance
• Automatic HOS Tracking
• DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports)
• IFTA Reporting
• Real-time GPS Tracking
• Bilingual Support (English & French in Canada)
• Offline Functionality
• Affordable Plans
• Driver-Friendly Interface
• Canadian 160 km exemption support (for short-haul drivers)

Top ELD Logbook Apps & Systems (Cross-Border & Canada-Friendly)

1. Motive (formerly KeepTruckin)

Best for: Owner-operators & cross-border fleets

• FMCSA- and Transport Canada-certified
• Easy-to-use mobile app
• Real-time GPS & vehicle diagnostics
• DVIR, IFTA, fuel tracking
• Works well for U.S.-Canada cross-border hauling

2. Samsara

Best for: Data-focused fleets in U.S. and Canada

• Certified in both U.S. and Canada
• Advanced reporting, fleet safety tools
• Driver scorecards & dashcams
• IFTA & DVIR functionality
• Reliable for large fleets operating in North America

3. Geotab Drive

Best for: Canadian fleets and enterprise carriers

• Transport Canada-certified
• Strong Canadian presence and bilingual support
• Integrates with Geotab’s fleet management platform
• Offers flexible HOS rulesets for Canadian provinces
• Useful for fleets navigating complex Canadian regulations

4. Garmin eLog

Best for: No subscription, low-cost option (U.S. only)

• Not currently Transport Canada-certified
• U.S. FMCSA-compliant
• One-time hardware purchase
• Ideal for U.S.-only operations

5. EROAD Ehubo ELD

Best for: Full compliance & certified solution in Canada

• Transport Canada- and FMCSA-certified
• Third-party certified as required in Canada
• Cloud-based driver logs and safety reports
• Strong reputation in Canadian compliance circles

🇨🇦 What Makes Canada’s ELD Mandate Different?

Unlike the U.S., Canada requires third-party certification of ELDs. This means not every U.S.-approved ELD is valid in Canada.

Key Canadian ELD differences:

• Devices must be certified by an approved body (like FPInnovations)
• Supports split sleeper berth rules specific to Canadian hours
• Canadian 160 km exemption allows some short-haul drivers to avoid ELDs
• Requires bilingual display (English and French)
• Applies only to federally regulated carriers (not local provincial haulers)

🛑 Tip: If you cross into Canada from the U.S., make sure your ELD is certified by Transport Canada or you risk being placed out of service.

Matching the System to Your Operation

Pro Tips for Choosing & Using a Logbook App

• Check certification status on Transport Canada's website if you operate in Canada
• Ensure offline capability for remote areas
• Look for 24/7 bilingual support if you're a Canadian carrier
• Choose ELDs that are easy to update remotely as rules change
• Train your drivers—no app can replace proper usage and understanding of HOS rules

Choosing the best logbook system means finding one that keeps you compliant on both sides of the border if needed, supports your operation’s size, and helps you run more efficiently. With Transport Canada now fully enforcing its ELD regulations, Canadian carriers need to be as careful as their U.S. counterparts when selecting an approved device.

So, what’s the best app?

• For cross-border haulers: Go with Motive, Samsara, or Geotab

• For Canadian-only operations: Choose a Transport Canada-certified system like EROAD or Geotab

• For budget-conscious U.S. drivers: Garmin eLog is a simple, affordable solution