Pre-Trip Inspection – Trailer
Air and Electrical Connections
- The trailer air connectors should be sealed and in good condition.
- Glad hands should be locked in place and free of damage or air leaks.
- The trailer electrical plug should be firmly seated and locked in place.
Header Board
- If equipped with a header board, check to see that it is secure, damage-free and strong enough to contain cargo.
- If equipped with a canvas or tarp carrier, it should be mounted and fastened securely.
- Check the front area of enclosed trailers for cracks, bulges or holes.
Side of Trailer
Landing Gear
- The landing gear must be fully raised. Check that it has no missing parts with a non-damaged support frame and that the crank handle is secure.
- Check for air or hydraulic leaks if power operated.
Doors, Ties and Lifts
- Check that doors are not damaged and that they open, close, and latch properly from the outside.
- Ties, straps, chains, and binders should be secure.
- Any cargo lifts should be checked for leaking, damaged or missing parts, and should be fully retracted and latched securely.
Frame
- The frame, cross members, box, and floor should be checked for holes, cracks, broken welds or other damage.
Tandem Release Arm and Locking Pins
- If equipped, make sure that the release arm is secured and that the locking pins are locked in place.
Remainder of Trailer
Inspect the following components according to the sections mentioned previously in this guide:
- Wheels
- Suspension System
- Brakes
- Doors, Ties and Lift
- Splash Guards
The Five (5) Components of the Pre-Trip Inspection
Trailer
Study and Training Guides
