Template

DOT Truck and Trailer Inspection Checklist

by Curtis Williams, from the Community

10+

This DOT vehicle inspection checklist supports fleet and construction teams in verifying driver readiness and equipment compliance. It covers driver documents and pre trip preparation including logbook, license, medical card and required personal protective equipment. Tractor checks include lights, engine fluids, windshield wipers, hood security, mirrors and windows, company signage with DOT numbers, tires, fuel system, battery, steps, body and frame, exhaust and air systems, suspension, trailer lines and coupling devices. In cab items include paperwork such as registration, inspection report, insurance, cab card and permits, along with safety equipment including fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, spare bulbs and fuses, seat belts, steering play, defroster, air pressure alerts, horns, instrument panel and housekeeping. Trailer checks cover paperwork, coupling and king pin, all lights, ABS light, reflective tape coverage, air and electrical lines, brake adjustment, tires and wheel components, mud flaps, suspension, load securement, tarp and door security.

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With SafetyCulture you can

Digitize any process, procedure or policy

Eliminate mistakes made by paper-based processes

Create and share professional reports instantly

Confirm accountability and compliance with a digital log

About author

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This community page makes available free workplace checklists and templates created by other users within the SafetyCulture community. SafetyCulture has re-published this content and where possible, has credited the original author. SafetyCulture has not verified the accuracy, reliability or suitability of any community content. You agree that your use of any of this content is in accordance with SafetyCulture’s Terms and Conditions.

Template
Pre-Trip Inspection Report with Trailer
Use this pre-trip inspection form to document the condition of your truck and trailer before hitting the road. Check critical systems such as air compressor and lines, brakes (service and parking), tires, wheels and rims, lights and reflectors, horn, mirrors, windshield and wipers, steering, suspension, coupling devices and fifth wheel, frame and axles, fluids and oil levels, exhaust, battery and starter, and safety equipment. Trailer-specific checks include brake connections, king pin, landing gear, doors, roof, straps, and reflective tape. Capture signatures, notes, media, and dates for compliance and maintenance.
by Berkot Transportation, from the Community
Downloads: 20+
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Template
Gate Check Checklist
This gate check checklist helps gate personnel and drivers standardize entry procedures for commercial vehicles and trailers. Verify driver credentials including license and medical card, confirm DOT and IFTA documentation, and record asset details like vehicle type, asset and DOT numbers, and annual inspection dates. Inspect exterior and interior components such as lights, mirrors, wipers, tires and tread depth, suspensions, mud flaps, reflective tape, hood and brake components, and frame. Include trailer-specific checks for lights, tires, airlines, brakes, suspension, dolly legs, plates, and reflective tape. Ensure required in-cab items are present and serviceable including insurance, registration, ELD cards and instructions, DVIR log, fire extinguisher, triangles, reflectors, spill kit, and horns. Use this template to improve safety, compliance, and record keeping at site entry.
by Marquis Edwards, from the Community
Downloads: 0
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Template
Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
Use this pre-trip inspection checklist to perform a thorough walkaround and in-cab check before operating a commercial truck and trailer. Inspect plates, lights, engine components, steering, suspension, brakes, tires, rims, fuel system, coupling and fifth wheel, landing gear, and trailer axles. Verify safety equipment, conduct parking and service brake tests, and confirm air system recovery to meet DOT compliance.
by Phillipp User, from the Community
Downloads: 30+
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Template
Pre-trip Inspection Checklist for Trucks
This pre-trip inspection checklist helps drivers and fleet teams verify vehicle readiness before hitting the road. Cover essential checks for heavy trucks and trailers including lights, tires, brakes, steering, suspension, rims and lug nuts, engine components, fluids, coupling and fifth wheel, mud flaps, landing gear, and DOT-required reflective tapes. Guide in-cab inspections for safety equipment like fire extinguishers, triangles, fuses, belts, wipers, gauges, and horn. Includes air brake checks, leak-down tests, warning indicators, and recovery thresholds, plus a final pass or fail decision with comments and signatures to support compliance and safer operations.
by Kindal Fitzgerald, from the Community
Downloads: 10+
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DOT Truck and Trailer Inspection Checklist

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