What is HOS?
Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are rules established by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) that limit how long commercial truck drivers can drive and work. These rules aim to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Key HOS Rules (Property-Carrying Drivers)
- 11-Hour Driving Limit: May drive max 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-Hour Limit: Cannot drive beyond 14th hour after coming on duty
- 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-Hour Limit: Cannot drive after 60/70 hours in 7/8 consecutive days
- 34-Hour Restart: May restart 60/70-hour clock after 34+ consecutive hours off
ELD Mandate
The ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate requires most commercial drivers to use electronic devices to record their hours of service, replacing paper logs.
Impact on Shipping
- Limits daily distance drivers can travel
- Affects transit times for long-haul shipments
- Increases need for driver relay or team drivers
- Detention at facilities impacts available drive time
- Must factor into ETA calculations
HOS Exceptions
- Short-haul exemption (150 air-mile radius)
- Adverse driving conditions
- Emergency conditions
- Agricultural operations