FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What log forms do you offer? What if my company has a special form?

The software ships with our standard FMCSA-compliant log-form. If your company requires a special form we can have it installed on your system automatically, usually at no charge. Click here for details.

Do I need internet to use this program?

The software runs on a PC and does not normally require internet access. You do need internet access to install/unlock the software, and when you use our optional on-line backup or Certified Fax features.

Do I need a printer in the cab?

If you use Eclipse Logbook AND Still Keep Handwritten Logs

No printer is needed.

If you use Eclipse Logbook INSTEAD OF Handwritten Logs

A printer is recommended. You'll find that while many inspectors are comfortable reviewing logs on your computer, you will need to generate hard-copy logs to be safe.

If you want to keep your costs to a minimum, you can either copy your logs to paper by hand, or buy a used printer (usually for $10-$20) at www.craigslist.org; just make sure it works on your laptop before paying for it. If you prefer a new printer, visit our Pricing page. We also sell inverters that power the printer in the cab.

In our discussions with field auditors, most say that if your printer is not working during an inspection, they would allow you to transcribe your logs by hand to paper. Therefore it's a good idea to keep a spare blank logbook with you in case you need to surrender logs and you're experiencing printer problems.

Is the software licensed permanently, or is there an annual fee?

Eclipse Logbook is a one-time purchase, and you can use the copy you buy indefintely, subject to the terms of the license agreement. You also get a six-month Upgrade Pack entitling you to all upgrades during that time as well as use of our on-line backup service.

If you would like new versions and upgrades after the first six months, you can purchase a one-year Upgrade Pack. You get all upgrades for one year, as well as use of our on-line backup and restore service to protect you from laptop-theft or hard-drive crashes.

Upgrade Packs are half-price if you keep them in place continuously. Or you can wait until you see new features you want (no matter how long) and upgrade then at regular price. Please see the Upgrades page for important terms and conditions.

Can team drivers share a laptop?

Yes. Each license is sold separately, but you can install as many licenses on a single laptop as you want. Each license is independent so you can split to different computers in the future if your team situation changes. Just click the small down-arrow beside the driver name to add additional drivers.

When you purchase a license or a signature, you need to make sure you are logged in as the correct user at the logbook.com website before making your purchase.

What happens if I need help?

We offer unmatched support options all of which are included at no charge, even before you purchase the system! Choose from instant-chat with Technicians, 800 phone support, forums, on-line training videos, email and more. Just visit the Support section of our website for full details.

How does your Certified Fax service work when submitting logs to my carrier?

This service lets you fax logs to your carrier instantly from anywhere you have an internet connection (truck, hotel, truck-stop, home, etc.). You do NOT need a phone line, fax modem, or any special equipment, but you DO need your carrier's sponsorship for this service.

We can track delivery of logs sent by Certified Fax, so you'll never have to worry about being blamed for lost logs again!

Does the optional GPS make the system an on-board recorder (OBR)?

No. GPS is for convenience only (it detects and types your current location into the Remarks section of the log). Eclipse Logbook does NOT meet the requirement for on-board recorders which must document continuous location information. This is because the GPS functionality is ONLY enabled when the driver has Eclipse Logbook running on their computer AND has the GPS device attached.

Am I guaranteed audit-proof if I use Eclipse Logbook?

Eclipse Logbook can help you drive legally and prepare compliant logs, and our audit has been used to audit, error free, over 1 billion logs at over 3,000 trucking companies and auditors. However, we can not verify the information you present using Eclipse Logbook, nor can we predict future FMCSA interpretations, so all risk of compliance with the regulations is assumed by the user.

If you ever feel you've been unfairly accused of a violation, our support staff has worked extensively with FMCSA auditors and will be glad to provide assistance in explaining our audits to enforcement officers (limited assistance is free; extensive support may be done at additional charge).

Learn More

For more information click the links at the top-left side of this page, or use the following options: