PM checklist
Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
Use this pre-trip checklist as a practical inspection routine before moving a tractor-trailer.
If this checklist creates repair items, record them in the maintenance log template and use the PM schedule generator to plan the next due mileage.
Printable Checklist
| Item | What to check | Why it matters | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cab and controls | Check gauges, mirrors, horn, wipers, washer fluid, heater/defroster, warning lights, and seat belt. | The pre-trip starts before the wheels move. | Record warning lights by exact lamp or message. |
| Engine compartment | Inspect oil, coolant, belts, hoses, visible leaks, wiring rub points, and fan area from a safe position. | Heat, leaks, and belt problems can end a trip early. | Do not open hot pressurized systems. |
| Brake check | Observe air build, warning devices, parking brake function, and service brake response as required by your procedure. | Brake concerns must be handled before public-road operation. | Escalate abnormal pressure loss. |
| Trailer connection | Inspect kingpin lock, landing gear, glad hands, air lines, electrical cord, ABS light, and trailer lights. | Many pre-trip issues appear after trailer pickup. | Photograph trailer damage before departure. |
| Load and body | Check doors, seals, securement, straps, roof/floor visible condition, and placards when applicable. | Equipment condition and cargo condition meet during pre-trip. | Log shipper or yard defects clearly. |
How Often to Use This Checklist
Use before each trip, after equipment swaps, and when picking up a trailer with unknown condition.
Common Mistakes
- Checking boxes without writing mileage, unit number, defect notes, and follow-up status.
- Treating a visual walkaround as a qualified mechanical inspection.
- Skipping records for small defects that later become repeated repair issues.
- Filing paper logs where drivers, dispatch, and maintenance cannot retrieve them quickly.
Records to Keep
- Completed checklist with date, odometer, driver or inspector name, and unit number.
- Defect correction notes, invoices, parts receipts, and photos when useful.
- PM due mileage, next inspection target, and any out-of-service decision notes.
Use the print button to print the checklist or save it as a PDF from the browser.
Related resources
Sources and Methodology
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Part 393 - Equipment safety rules used as a reference point for inspection-sensitive systems such as brakes, lamps, coupling devices, and tires.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Part 396 - Maintenance, inspection, repair, and recordkeeping requirements for motor carriers.
- Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports and Roadside Inspection Basics - Public FMCSA material used for inspection and recordkeeping context.