DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist
Car hauler operators must complete this DVIR under 49 CFR 396.11 before each dispatch. Auto transport trailers require inspection of the upper and lower deck structure, ramp actuators, and the tie-down straps or wheel nets used to secure each transported vehicle. 49 CFR 393.132 specifically governs securement of transported vehicles - at least 4 tie-down devices per vehicle are required, and the combined working load limit must equal the vehicle weight. Overhanging or unsecured vehicles are an i
- Industry: Automotive
- Frequency: Daily
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: Fleet Safety Manager
- Total Items: 21
- Compliance: 49 CFR 396.11, 49 CFR 393, 49 CFR 390, FMCSA Regulations
Trailer Deck Structure and Ramp Mechanisms
Car hauler decks and hydraulic or cable-operated ramps must be structurally sound before loading.
- Upper and lower deck rails free of cracks, warped members, or broken deck planks?
- Deck elevation pins (stanchions or guide tubes) engage and lock at correct height for load?
- Hydraulic system (if equipped) lifts upper deck smoothly; no leaks at cylinders or hoses?
- Cable winch (if equipped) wound evenly; no frayed wires or bent cable drum?
- End gates or ramp extensions locked in travel position when loaded?
Vehicle Tie-Down Straps and Wheel Nets
49 CFR 393.132 requires at least 4 tie-down devices per transported vehicle with combined WLL equal to vehicle weight.
- At least 4 tie-down straps or wheel nets installed per transported vehicle?
- Combined WLL of tie-downs per vehicle is at least equal to that vehicle's gross weight?
- Straps or wheel nets positioned at correct tire/wheel contact points without slipping?
- No straps routed over sharp body edges that could cut the webbing?
- Number of vehicles loaded and total strap count:
Transported Vehicle Condition and Clearance
Verify loaded vehicles have adequate clearance from the ground, deck, and other vehicles during transport.
- All loaded vehicles clear the deck edge with at least 2 inches of body clearance?
- No vehicle body parts (bumpers, mirrors) overhanging the side of the trailer by more than 4 inches?
- Steering wheels of all transported vehicles locked and keys secured in cab?
- Emergency brakes of all loaded vehicles released (not left engaged)?
Overall Height and Permit Verification
Car haulers frequently travel at or above 13.6-foot height limits. Verify loaded height and any required height permits.
- Overall loaded height measured and recorded?
- Overall loaded height within state permit or legal limit for today's route?
- Recorded overall height (feet and inches):
- Overheight permit in cab if applicable (permit number):
DVIR Certification
Complete standard DVIR items and sign the report.
- Standard DVIR items (brakes, tires, lights, coupling, fifth wheel) checked?
- Any defects found (describe or None):
- Driver signature and loaded departure time:
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Why Use This DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist?
This dot fmcsa 49 cfr 396.11 car hauler pre-trip dvir checklist helps automotive teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for fleet safety manager professionals, this checklist covers 21 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: daily.
Ensures compliance with 49 CFR 396.11, 49 CFR 393, 49 CFR 390, FMCSA Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist?
A DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist is a standardized inspection form used by fleet safety manager to ensure consistent automotive operations. It contains 28 inspection points organized into 5 sections. FREE PDF - FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 DVIR for car-hauler and auto transport trailers (2-car through 10-car configurations). Covers loading deck structure, ramp winch cable, tie-down straps per vehicle, deck lock pins, and FMCSA cargo securement requirements for transported motor vehicles.
How often should I use this automotive checklist?
This checklist is designed to be completed daily. Regular use ensures compliance with 49 CFR 396.11 and 49 CFR 393 and helps identify issues before they become problems.
Can I download this DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist as a PDF?
Yes, you can download this checklist as a FREE PDF for printing or offline use. The checklist includes 28 fields across 5 sections and typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete.
What compliance standards does this checklist cover?
This checklist helps ensure compliance with 49 CFR 396.11, 49 CFR 393, 49 CFR 390, FMCSA Regulations. Following these standards protects your organization and ensures best practices.
How do I complete this automotive inspection checklist?
Begin by completing the header fields for Facility / Location, Inspection Date, Inspector Name, and Permit / Reference Number. Work through each of the 5 sections, marking items Yes or No as applicable. Add notes for any issues found. Finally, complete the footer fields and add your signature. The entire process takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
What are the key sections in this automotive checklist?
This automotive checklist is organized into 5 key sections: Trailer Deck Structure and Ramp Mechanisms, Vehicle Tie-Down Straps and Wheel Nets, Transported Vehicle Condition and Clearance, Overall Height and Permit Verification, DVIR Certification. Each section contains specific inspection points that fleet safety manager must verify. The structured layout ensures nothing is missed during automotive inspections and makes the process efficient, typically taking 20-30 minutes to complete.
Who should use this DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist?
This checklist is primarily designed for fleet safety manager working in automotive operations. However, it is also valuable for quality assurance teams, safety officers, compliance managers, and supervisors who need to verify that automotive standards are being met. Organizations of all sizes can benefit from using this DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 Car Hauler Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist to maintain consistency and accountability.