How to Use the Sleeper Berth Split

Since late 2020, commercial truck drivers have been able to utilize a special FMCSA provision for hours of service (HOS) regulations designed to increase flexibility without impacting safety. The provision, known as the sleeper berth provision, allows drivers to split their 10-hour off-duty requirement into two parts: at least seven hours inside their sleeper berth and at least two  additional off-duty hours spent inside or outside of the berth. When used together properly, neither time period counts against the maximum 14-hour driving window.

When a driver executes a sleeper berth split correctly, they can regain a few more hours back on their clocks. However, as a relatively new addition to the industry, the provision comes with some growing pains.

Challenges of the Sleep Berth Spit

First and foremost, drivers must be trained on what the provision is and how to execute it properly. This can be difficult since drivers that are performing a sleeper berth split are coming off of a full day’s work and are most likely quite tired; not an ideal time to complete training on a new HOS tracking process. Additionally, drivers utilizing the split might not be getting the most restful sleep because they are breaking their normal sleep patterns.

In addition to the challenges of training drivers on how to execute a proper sleeper berth split, the software the drivers use may still be catching up to the new provision. Drivers may select the duty status that they are in the sleeper berth, but might be forced to do the mental math or jot down on paper when they went into this status, which introduces the opportunity for human error and subsequent HOS violations that can hurt the fleet and the driver.

Failure to properly track and use the split can result in fines, mandatory out-of-service time, or safety points. Even more concerning, failure to adhere to HOS regulations can lead to driver fatigue and an increased risk of costly accidents.

Why Use the Sleeper Berth Split? 

With all of the challenges that drivers and fleets face when it comes to the sleeper berth split provision, some might ask why even bother. There are actually quite a few advantages of this provision for both fleets and drivers. 

Benefits for Fleets 

Safer Routes: The sleeper berth split gives fatigued drivers a way to pull off the road and not be punished, reducing the number of sleepy drivers behind the wheel and potential fatigue-related incidents. 

Improved Productivity: Drivers can more easily match shipper/receiver times, meaning less time wasted waiting around for their availability. 

Driver Job Satisfaction: Giving a driver the ability to use the sleeper berth provision allows them more freedom to maximize their money each day, improving job satisfaction and reducing attrition.

Improved Customer Service: Drivers lining up delivery and pickup times means their fleet will be a more desirable carrier, potentially driving additional business. Additionally, rather than the shipper having to pay for detention time, a driver may be able to use the sleeper berth split, saving the shipper money and giving the driver more time.

Benefits for Drivers 

More Flexibility: Drivers can better manage and plan their day, scheduling how they see fit, including proactively matching their shipper and receiver timing.

‍Maximized Driving Time: Drivers can maximize their driving time when things outside of their control impact them, such as delays at a loading dock.

Reduced Fatigue: Drivers don't have to power through their driving time to get to their next destination. Instead, using the sleeper berth split, they can take a nap or full sleep and then get back hours on their clocks. 

Simplifying the Sleeper Berth Split

Fleet management software and telematics tools can go a long way in helping fleets and drivers make the most of the sleeper berth provision while ensuring compliance. By utilizing HOS data and automating tracking, software can reduce the stress on drivers and the back office. 

Platform Science offers tools specifically designed to streamline workflow and reduce mental math. For example:

• Duty Status Management: Drivers can easily change their duty statuses and receive break reminders, saving time and promoting safety on the road.
• HOS Timers: Drivers receive reminders of upcoming breaks and driving limits, ensuring they adhere to DOT requirements and stay safe on the road.
• Sleeper Berth Usage Analytics: PS Analytics can track which drivers are using the sleeper berth status and identify opportunities to optimize their hours by utilizing the split sleeper berth option. 
• Split Calculations: The platform helps drivers and fleet managers accurately calculate the split sleeper berth periods (e.g., 8/2 or 7/3 hours) and understand how it impacts their driving window. 
• Manage Your Fleet More Efficiently: The platform helps fleet managers manage compliance with the regulations, including the 14-hour driving window and the 34-hour reset, and provides insights into driver fatigue risk. 
• Improve Driver Education: Platform Science can provide training and guidance to drivers on how to properly use the split sleeper berth provision and other HOS features.
• Integrate Third-Party Apps: Add-on apps offer features that simplify compliance with the adjusted FMCSA regulations, including trickier regulations like the split sleeper berth breaks.

To learn more about how Platform Science can optimize your operations, including helping drivers utilize the sleeper berth split, contact us today. 

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