Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection - FREE PDF

Pre-trip inspection for commercial trailers including dry van, flatbed, and reefer trailers. Verify brake, lighting, and coupling systems.

Industry: Trucking / Transportation
Frequency: Before each trip
Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
Role: Truck Driver
Total Items: 26
Compliance: FMCSA 396.11, DOT 49 CFR Part 393, DOT 49 CFR Part 392

Pre-Inspection Verification

Initial verification before conducting vehicle inspection.

Registration and insurance documents present?
Previous DVIR reviewed?
Prior defects repaired and signed off?

Exterior Inspection

Walk-around inspection of vehicle exterior and safety equipment.

Body/cab condition acceptable?
All lights functioning (headlights, turn signals, brake, clearance)?
Mirrors properly adjusted and undamaged?
Tires properly inflated, adequate tread?
Wheels and lug nuts secure?

Engine Compartment

Under-hood inspection of engine and fluid levels.

Engine oil level adequate?
Coolant level adequate?
Belts and hoses in good condition?
No fluid leaks observed?

Brake System

Brake system inspection and verification.

Service brakes operating properly?
Parking brake holds vehicle?
Air pressure builds adequately (air brakes)?
No air leaks detected (air brakes)?

Cab Interior & Safety Equipment

Cab condition and required safety equipment verification.

All gauges and warning lights functioning?
Horn functioning?
Windshield wipers/washers working?
Seatbelt present and functional?
Fire extinguisher present and charged?
Emergency triangles/flares present?

Defects and Summary

Document any defects and overall vehicle condition.

Any defects found during inspection?
Vehicle safe to operate?
Defect Description
Driver Signature/Verification

Related Transportation Checklists

Related Pre Trip Inspection Checklists

Why Use This Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection?

This trailer pre-trip inspection helps trucking / transportation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for truck driver professionals, this checklist covers 26 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: before each trip.

Ensures compliance with FMCSA 396.11, DOT 49 CFR Part 393, DOT 49 CFR Part 392. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection cover?

This checklist covers 26 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Inspection Verification, Exterior Inspection, Engine Compartment, Brake System, Cab Interior & Safety Equipment, Defects and Summary. It is designed for trucking / transportation operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed before each trip. Each completion takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

Who should use this Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection?

This checklist is designed for Truck Driver professionals in the trucking / 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.