For owner-drivers and small fleet operators, managing tachograph data is essential for compliance with driving regulations. Many rely on subscription-based tachograph analysis software, which offer regular updates and support but come with ongoing costs that can add up over time. EasyTac, a one-off investment solution, offers a compelling alternative that can save significant money while providing a straightforward, reliable way to manage tachograph data. Here’s why switching to EasyTac is a smart financial decision and how long it takes for the investment to pay off.
The cost of subscription-based tachograph analysis software solutions
Most subscription-based tachograph data management solutions charge monthly or annual fees. These fees typically cover:
- Software updates
- Cloud storage
- Automated reports and reminders
- Data analysis
- Support services
While these features may sound attractive, they often come at a cost of between £4 and £25 a month per driver and/or vehicle, depending on the provider and the service level offered. Over a year, this can amount to anywhere from £48 to £300 per driver.
Let’s break down the potential costs:
For a small fleet with five vehicles, this could mean spending anything between £240 to £1,500 annually on a subscription-based solution — a recurring expense with no end in sight. Over a 5-year period, the same fleet might pay between £1,200 and £7,500.
EasyTac: a one-off investment with no ongoing costs
In contrast, EasyTac requires a one-time purchase. Even when bundled with the necessary hardware, the upfront cost is significantly lower than the ongoing fees of subscription-based tachograph analysis services. Once purchased, there are no additional recurring costs for using EasyTac software (and you will receive free updates and technical support).
Here’s what EasyTac kits typically include:
- EasyTac Software
- Driver card reader (either uTrust 2700RH or OMNIKEY 3121)
- Digidown device for VU data downloads
The total cost of EasyTac kits is £279 or £299 (excl. VAT), depending on the chosen tacho card reader. This is a one-off expense that covers both driver card data management and VU data downloads. Should you already have your own download tools, you can choose to buy the the EasyTac software on its own at a very attractive one-off price of £99 (excl. VAT).
How long does it take for EasyTac to pay off?
Assuming a typical subscription service costs around £10 per driver per month:
- For a fleet of 5 drivers, this amounts to £50 per month
- EasyTac’s full kit costs £279 or £299 (excl. VAT), depending on the chosen tacho card reader
In this scenario, EasyTac would pay for itself in as little as 6 months. Beyond that point, the business saves money every month by avoiding recurring subscription fees for a monthly tachograph data analysis solution.
The hidden costs of subscription-based tachograph analysis software
Subscription-based solutions often come with hidden costs, such as:
- Fees for additional services or features
- Charges for exceeding data limits
- Costs for customer support or extra user licenses
EasyTac eliminates these hidden costs by providing a straightforward, one-time payment model. With EasyTac, there are absolutely no limits on how much data you can manage, and no restrictions on how many additional drivers or vehicles you can add. Once you own the software, it will expand with your business at no additional cost.
Benefits of EasyTac over subscription-based tachograph analysis software solutions
Here are the key advantages of switching to EasyTac:
1. No recurring monthly subscription costs
Once you’ve purchased EasyTac, there are no ongoing subscription fees. This provides long-term savings and predictable costs, which is crucial for small fleets and owner-drivers managing tight budgets.
2. Simple, self-managed tachograph data solution
EasyTac is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, with:
- Clear, organized data tabs
- Reminders for data downloads (green, amber, red dots)
- No automatic analysis, leaving you in charge of reviewing your own tachograph data
3. EasyTac complements existing download tools
If you already use a Digidown or similar VU download device, you can integrate it with EasyTac, making the transition seamless and keeping your costs even more attractive. Since EasyTac is available on its own at a very competitive price of £99 as well, an investment like this could pay off in as little as two months based on the above detailed scenario.
4. No hidden costs
Subscription-based services may come with hidden fees for additional features or exceeding certain limits. With EasyTac, you know exactly what you’re paying for upfront and there are no restrictions on the number of drivers or vehicles you can add.
5. Tachograph data control
Your data remains on your system without relying on third-party cloud storage.
6. No long-term contract
With EasyTac, you own the software outright and avoid the risk of being locked into a long-term contract.
Make the switch to EasyTac software today
For large operators, subscription-based tachograph analysis software may be more attractive due to their automated analysis, reporting and fleet-wide management features. However, for small fleets and owner-drivers, the cost-to-benefit ratio of a subscription service often doesn’t make sense.
For small fleet operators and owner-drivers looking to manage and review their own tachograph data without ongoing costs, EasyTac offers a practical, cost-effective solution. With a one-off investment, EasyTac provides the tools you need to stay compliant, manage your data, and save money over time.
In just a few months, EasyTac pays for itself — after that, it’s all savings. Why pay for a subscription when you can own your tachograph data management solution and have full control over your data? Have a look at our kits and start saving today!
