Navigating TRUCRS: Your Guide to Efficient Fleet Compliance Reporting

As a fleet manager, ensuring compliance with various in-use fleet regulations can be a daunting task. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has developed the Truck Regulation Upload, Compliance, and Reporting System (TRUCRS) to streamline the reporting process and help fleet owners meet their regulatory obligations. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the essentials of TRUCRS and show you how to navigate the system effectively.

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What is TRUCRS?

TRUCRS is an online reporting system designed to assist vehicle owners in meeting the reporting requirements for several in-use fleet regulations, including:

• Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation
• Truck and Bus Regulation
• Zero-Emission Airport Shuttle Regulation

By centralizing the reporting process, TRUCRS simplifies compliance management and ensures that fleet owners have a clear understanding of their regulatory obligations.

Who Needs to Report?

Diesel vehicle owners who wish to use one of the remaining flexibility options for the Truck and Bus Regulation, if eligible, must report each January to identify which vehicles will use an option for the duration of the compliance year. Owners of vehicles claiming the Low-Use option or the NOx Exempt Area with a PM Filter option must report annually during the open reporting period (January 1 through January 31) and update their compliance path if they wish to continue using the option.

Additionally, diesel vehicles classified as Solid Waste Collection Vehicles (SWCVs) or Heavy Cranes, as defined in the SWCV regulation, have specific reporting requirements outlined in the regulation.

Accessing TRUCRS

To access TRUCRS, visit the Truck and Bus Program homepage (www.arb.ca.gov/dieseltruck) and select "Reporting (TRUCRS)" on the left side of the page. First-time users will need to create a new account, while returning users can log in using their existing credentials.

First-Time Reporting

If you're reporting for the first time, follow these steps:

1. Create a new account by providing the required contact information.
2. Report your company information and create a TRUCRS ID.
3. Add vehicles to your fleet, ensuring that all required information, such as Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and Engine Family Name (EFN), is accurate.
4. Select the appropriate body type and compliance option for each vehicle.

Returning Users

For those who have previously reported in TRUCRS:

1. Log in using your existing username and password. If you've forgotten your credentials, use the "Forgot Username/Password" link to retrieve them.
2. Manage your fleet information by updating company details, adding new vehicles, and removing sold or junked vehicles.
3. Edit vehicle information as needed, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
4. Update vehicle compliance options, such as continuing to use a mileage-based option or selecting a new compliance path.

Determining Compliance Status

Once you've completed updating your vehicle list, review your fleet's compliance status on the Compliance Status tab. If your fleet is in compliance, you'll be able to print a Certificate of Compliance. If your fleet is out of compliance or information is missing, TRUCRS will provide guidance on the necessary steps to achieve compliance.

Best Practices for TRUCRS Reporting

To ensure a smooth and accurate reporting process, follow these best practices:

• Keep your contact and company information up to date in TRUCRS.
• Regularly review and update your vehicle list, adding new purchases and removing sold or junked vehicles within 30 days of the change.
• Maintain accurate mileage records, including travel inside and outside California borders and emergency miles, to support claimed mileage-based options.
• Respond promptly to any requests from CARB staff for additional documentation or clarification.
• Continuously monitor your fleet's compliance status and take necessary actions to maintain compliance.

Conclusion

TRUCRS is a powerful tool that simplifies the compliance reporting process for various in-use fleet regulations. By understanding the system's requirements and following best practices, fleet managers can ensure their fleets remain compliant and avoid potential penalties. Embrace the efficiency and convenience of TRUCRS and streamline your fleet compliance management today.

If you have any questions or need assistance with TRUCRS reporting, don't hesitate to reach out to the TRUCRS support team at TRUCRS@arb.ca.gov or visit the TRUCRS Help Center for additional resources and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I forget my TRUCRS login credentials?

If you forget your TRUCRS username or password, use the "Forgot Username/Password" link on the login page to retrieve your credentials. Avoid creating a new account, as this can result in a duplicate account and potential compliance issues.

2. How often do I need to update my vehicle information in TRUCRS?

You should update your vehicle information within 30 days of any changes, such as adding newly purchased vehicles or removing sold or junked vehicles. Regularly review your vehicle list to ensure it remains accurate.

3. What records do I need to keep to support claimed mileage-based options?

To support mileage-based options, you must maintain records documenting travel inside and outside California borders, as well as emergency miles. Acceptable documentation includes Periodic Smoke Inspection Program (PSIP) test results, BIT inspection records, third-party maintenance records, and IFTA/IRP fuel tax records.

4. What should I do if I'm unable to claim a compliance option for my vehicle?

If you believe your vehicle is eligible for a compliance option but cannot claim it in TRUCRS, contact TRUCRS staff at TRUCRS@arb.ca.gov for assistance. Provide relevant information and documentation to support your eligibility.

5. How can I ensure my fleet remains compliant with in-use fleet regulations?

To maintain compliance, regularly review your fleet information in TRUCRS, update vehicle details as necessary, and monitor your fleet's compliance status. Address any compliance issues promptly and maintain accurate records to support claimed compliance options. Stay informed about regulatory updates and deadlines to ensure ongoing compliance.

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