Minimizing over-the-road breakdowns and preventing out-of-service violations are two of the many benefits of pre- and post-trip inspections. Use this list of dos and don’ts to complete your inspections the right way.
Don’t: Think they’re optional. They’re the law. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulation 392.7 requires pre-trip inspections, while regulation 396.11 mandates post-trip inspections.
Do: Know what to check. For a pre-trip inspection, check:
parking brakes
service brakes
tires and rims
suspension
steering system
fluid levels
belts and hoses
electrical and air lines
coupling devices
wipers
mirrors
horn
seatbelts
gauges
air brake warning system
emergency kit
lights, reflectors and signals
all applicable paperwork
Check the same items for post-trip inspections minus the fluid checks—don’t touch anything that might be hot!
Don’t: Kick-check the tires. Thump checks don’t work, because a tire sounds empty only if it’s nearly 100% out of air. Use a calibrated tire gauge instead. Also, make sure all tires have the proper tread depth and that all lug nuts are tight.
Do: Double-check the brakes. More than 1 out of every 4 vehicle out-of-service violations in the U.S. during the 2021 Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s International Roadcheck were due to brake system violations.
Don’t: Do an inspection differently each time. Instead, develop a routine, and go in the same order with each pre- and post-trip check. Consider starting at the cab, then inside the cab, the front of the vehicle, then around the truck starting at the driver’s side.
Do: Take your time. There’s no rush. Budget 10-15 minutes for a proper pre-trip inspection.
Don’t: Forget the interior. A clean cab tells an inspector that the rest of the vehicle is in good shape. A dirty cab says the opposite.
Do: Chock your wheels. It’s the best way to make sure your truck doesn’t accidentally move when you’re doing a pre- or post-trip check. Forgetting to do so could cause a serious injury—or worse.
Do: Keep accurate logs. Whether you use electronic or paper logs, keep them updated regularly, and make sure all other paperwork (driver’s license, inspection, insurance) is current.
Don’t: Ignore potential problems. If you spot something out of the ordinary during your post-trip inspection, report it to dispatch immediately.