Every truck driver’s road trip includes a pre-trip examination.
It’s likely the aspect of a professional truck driver’s job that is least liked and frequently neglected in the trucking industry.
This examination is intended to be a comprehensive examination of the truck, trailer, and load.
Before the truck and driver leave on a trip, a check will be made to make sure everything is in good working order.
Before leaving, any damage or problems that were discovered during the pre-trip inspection must be fixed.
CDL Test Pre-Trip Inspection
You can exhale in relief if you recently completed the CDL application procedure.
The roughly 500 items you have to learn for the test do not have to be checked daily.
A full pre-trip shouldn’t take longer than 10 to 15 minutes when you’re driving.
DVIRs – Daily Vehicle Inspection Report
A driver is required to submit a Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) each day for each power unit he runs by federal law (FMCSR Section 396.11).
One report can have many trailers.
DVIRs can be printed or stored electronically.
Some truck drivers may go months or even years without submitting a DVIR because not all trucking companies (ahem) uphold this requirement.
Minimum DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Requirements
- Service brakes, such as trailer brake connections
- Lighting devices and reflectors
- Horn
- Steering mechanism
- Tires
- Parking brake
- Coupling devices
- Rear vision mirrors
- Wheels and rims
- Windshield wipers
- Emergency equipment
New Truck Inspection
On the pre-trip inspection, there are a few extra items you should look for when you are given a new truck (either daily or just once).
Truck Compliance
Cab Card And Book – This is a book that includes the truck’s registration, inspection, permits, cab cards, IFTA documentation, and any other relevant documents. Verify that it is in the truck and that the documentation is current.
IFTA Stickers – Fuel tax compliance stickers are known as IFTA stickers. On the truck’s two flanks, they are. Ensure that the display shows the current year.
Required Permits – The taxi card book has this. The Oregon Heavy Motor Vehicle Trip Permit and the Weight Distance Tax Permit are the two most popular licenses (New Mexico).
Inspection Sticker – Outside the truck is an inspection sticker. Find it and check to see if the vehicle is on time.
E-log Device – The majority of trucks must have a functional e-log device.
FMCSA Safety Regulations and Hazardous Materials Book – You’ll receive these from your employer. They must remain in your truck and be within easy reach of the driver.
Medical Card – Your truck must always contain a current medical card. Additionally, keep your CDL close to hand.
License Plate – Verify that the truck’s front and back license plates are identical.
Paper Logbook – You must record your hours in a paper logbook that must be preserved in your truck if your e-log breaks down.
Supplies
- Extra oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid
- Load bars and/or straps
- Chains and bungees
- Hammer, wrench, wire cutters, cable cutters, knife with glass-breaker
- Gladhand seals
- Line antifreeze and diesel anti-gel
Emergency Supplies
- Fire Extinguisher – Charge and secure the fire extinguisher to the truck. No wriggling about on the ground.
- Orange Triangles – You need three triangles in case you collapse.
- Extra Fuses – Required if your truck doesn’t use circuit breakers.
These are just some tips for truck drivers for the pre-trip inspection. In the next post, we’re going to dive deeper into the Class A Pre-Trip Inspection Process and the other parts of the truck that you need to check.
