Inspection Reports (Pre-Post Trip)

What are Inspection Reports?

Inspection reports, often referred to as vehicle inspection reports (VIRs) or driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs), are documents filled out by truck drivers to record the condition of a vehicle before and after their trip. These reports are designed to catch and document any potential issues or defects that could compromise the safety of the driver or the integrity of the cargo.

What is Included in an Inspection Report?

A comprehensive inspection report typically includes the following elements:

1. Vehicle Information: This includes the truck’s make, model, and VIN, as well as the date and time of the inspection.

2. Checklist of Inspection Items: This usually covers all components of the truck, such as the brakes, tires, lights, mirrors, coupling devices, and emergency equipment, among others.

3. Defects and Corrections: If any defects are found during the inspection, these are detailed in the report, along with any actions taken to correct them.

4. Certification: The driver signs off to certify that they have conducted a thorough inspection and that all reported defects have been addressed appropriately.

Who Has to Fill Out Inspection Reports

This rule applies to drivers of commercial motor vehicles and buses weighing 10,001 pounds or more or are designed for 9 passengers or more or if placarded for hazardous materials. Companies that operate only one such vehicle are exempt from this rule.

Drivers of vans, buses, and other passenger-carrying vehicles must prepare a DVIR once they’re done driving the vehicle for the day, whether there is a defect to report or not.

Drivers of trucks and other property-carrying vehicles need only prepare a DVIR if there is a safety-related defect to report unless company policy requires a report every day.
J.J. Keller Enconpass have great article regarding the rules of Inspection Reports.

Importance of Inspection Reports

Inspection reports play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards in the trucking industry. Their importance lies in:

1. Maintaining Road Safety: Regular inspections and proper documentation help to ensure that trucks are roadworthy and safe for operation, reducing the risk of accidents.
   Learn more about Safety here.

2. Compliance with Regulations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires regular inspections and documentation to ensure compliance with its regulations. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and penalties.
   Learn more about Compliance and Regulations here.

3. Preventive Maintenance: Inspection reports can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, leading to savings in terms of time and cost, and increasing the lifespan of the vehicle.

4. Liability Protection: In the event of an incident, having thorough inspection records can serve as evidence that a trucking company has taken all necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Conclusion

Truck inspection reports are more than just paperwork. They’re an essential part of a trucking company’s operations, contributing to safer roads, regulatory compliance, preventive maintenance, and protection against liability. Understanding their purpose and importance is crucial for anyone involved in the trucking industry.