Trailer Coupling Inspection
Complete before each trip when coupling to a trailer.
- Industry: Transport & Logistics
- Frequency: Each coupling
- Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
- Role: Commercial Driver
- Total Items: 31
- Compliance: DOT FMCSA 396.13, CDL Requirements
Fifth Wheel
Inspect fifth wheel coupling.
- Fifth wheel properly greased?
- Kingpin fully engaged and locked?
- Locking jaws closed around kingpin?
- Release handle in locked position?
- Tug test performed - trailer secure?
Air & Electrical
Check air and electrical connections.
- Glad hands properly connected?
- Air lines not kinked or damaged?
- Electrical cord properly connected?
- Trailer brakes responding?
- All trailer lights working?
Landing Gear & Safety
Check landing gear and safety items.
- Landing gear fully raised and secured?
- Adequate clearance under trailer?
- Safety devices/chains in place (if req)?
Initial Setup & Documentation
Complete initial documentation and preparation
- Inspector / Assessor Name
- Date
- Location / Area
- Inspection Type
- Previous findings reviewed?
Safety & Compliance Verification
Verify all safety requirements are met
- All safety protocols being followed?
- Emergency exits clear and accessible?
- First aid supplies available and stocked?
- All hazards identified and controlled?
- Required PPE being worn correctly?
Operational Standards Check
Verify operational standards and procedures are maintained
- Standard operating procedures being followed?
- All equipment in proper working condition?
- Maintenance schedule current?
- All staff training current and documented?
Quality Assessment
Evaluate quality standards and performance metrics
- Quality standards met for all items checked?
- Any deficiencies or non-conformances identified?
- Root cause analysis completed for issues?
- Continuous improvement opportunities identified?
Related Transport & Logistics Checklists
- Daily Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection
- CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
- Post-Trip Vehicle Condition Report
- Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection
- Hazmat Shipping Checklist
- Transport & Logistics DOT Pre-Trip Inspection
- DOT Post-Trip Inspection Checklist
- Commercial Vehicle Annual Inspection
Related Fleet Management Checklists
- Daily Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection - FREE Download
- CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Post-Trip Vehicle Condition Report - FREE Download
- Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection - FREE Download
Why Use This Trailer Coupling Inspection?
This trailer coupling inspection helps transport & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for commercial driver professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: each coupling.
Ensures compliance with DOT FMCSA 396.13, CDL Requirements. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Trailer Coupling Inspection cover?
This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 7 sections: Fifth Wheel, Air & Electrical, Landing Gear & Safety, Initial Setup & Documentation, Safety & Compliance Verification, Operational Standards Check, Quality Assessment. It is designed for transport & logistics operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed each coupling. Each completion takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Who should use this Trailer Coupling Inspection?
This checklist is designed for Commercial Driver professionals in the transport & logistics 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.