Freight Shipment Inspection Checklist
This freight shipment inspection checklist ensures proper cargo verification, documentation accuracy, and load securement in compliance with FMCSA cargo securement regulations.
- Industry: Logistics & Transportation
- Frequency: Per Shipment
- Estimated Time: 15-25 minutes
- Role: Freight Handler / Driver / Shipping Clerk
- Total Items: 34
- Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 393, FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules, DOT HM-215L, IATA (Air)
Documentation Review
Shipping document verification
- Bill of Lading present and complete
- BOL matches physical cargo
- Piece count matches documentation
- Weight matches documentation
- Special handling instructions noted
- Hazmat documentation complete (if applicable)
Cargo Condition
Physical condition of freight
- All packaging intact
- No visible damage to cargo
- Shipping labels readable
- Pallets in good condition
- Shrink wrap/banding intact
- Any damage photographed and documented
- Damage details (if any)
Load Securement
Cargo tie-down and securement
- Load properly distributed
- Center of gravity appropriate
- Adequate blocking and bracing
- Adequate number of tie-downs used
- Tie-downs/straps in good condition
- Cargo protected from shifting forward
- Load height within legal limits
Temperature Control (If Applicable)
Temperature-sensitive cargo verification
- Temperature-controlled shipment
- Reefer temperature reading
- Temperature within required range
- Refrigeration unit functioning properly
- Temperature recorder present and functioning
Hazmat Verification (If Applicable)
Hazardous materials compliance
- Correct hazmat placards displayed
- UN numbers visible
- Hazmat properly segregated
- Hazmat packages secured against movement
- Emergency response information available
Inspection Sign-Off
Final verification and signatures
- Shipment accepted
- Exceptions noted on BOL
- Exception details
- Inspector Signature
Related Logistics Checklists
- Warehouse Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection Checklist
- Warehouse Receiving Inspection Checklist
- Batch 4B Ca Checklist 81
- Batch 4B Ca Checklist 82
Why Use This Freight Shipment Inspection Checklist?
This freight shipment inspection checklist helps logistics & transportation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for freight handler / driver / shipping clerk professionals, this checklist covers 34 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per shipment.
Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 393, FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules, DOT HM-215L, IATA (Air). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Freight Shipment Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 34 inspection items across 6 sections: Documentation Review, Cargo Condition, Load Securement, Temperature Control (If Applicable), Hazmat Verification (If Applicable), Inspection Sign-Off. It is designed for logistics & transportation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per shipment. Each completion takes approximately 15-25 minutes.
Who should use this Freight Shipment Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Freight Handler / Driver / Shipping Clerk professionals in the logistics & transportation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.