Pre- and POST-TRIP INSPECTIONS

Pre- and POST-TRIP INSPECTIONS - Don't think they're optional. They're the law.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulation 392.7 requires pre-trip inspection, while regulation 396.11 mandates post-trip inspections.

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 fluid checks - don't touch anything that might be hot!

What to do and what don't need

Don't: Kick-check the tires. Thump checks don't work, because a tire sounds empty only it 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.

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.

Short video about the PTI:

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