Trailer Checklist Template - FREE PDF

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Trailer checklist template

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Use this template with Lumiform

Customize this template or build your own
Fill out templates via mobile app
Get reports and analyse your data

Prices start from ░░░ per month

Book a demo

Learn more

A trailer checklist template provides a systematic framework for inspecting all critical components of your trailers, from brakes and tires to electrical systems and coupling devices. This comprehensive inspection tool helps you maintain DOT compliance while preventing costly breakdowns and safety violations. We created this template specifically to address the challenge of performing consistent, thorough trailer inspections across your fleet.

For example, when drivers conduct pre-trip inspections, this checklist ensures no critical safety component is overlooked, research shows that downtime costs a fleet an average of $448 to $760 per vehicle per day in lost productivity. With this template, you’ll have a reliable system for documenting inspections and maintaining your trailer fleet in peak condition.

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Preview of the template

Audit

Please enter date and time which trailer was checked

Which trailer will you be using?

Trailer check list to be completed before using any trailer

Is there any noticeable damage to the trailer? If the answer is yes, please specify and attach a photo of the damage

Do all doors open, close, and lock properly?

Are all lights on the trailer operational?

Are the brakes on the trailer operational?

Is the brake-away cable function on the trailer operational?

Are the tires on the trailer safe to use, or are they a risk due to wear/damage?

Is the tire pressure on the trailer in accordance to the manufacture's recommendations?

Are there safety chains present on the trailer?

Are there useable shackles present on the safety chains?

Is the winch operational?

Is the trailer clean and ready for use?

Is the trailer lock on the trailer?

Has the trailer been signed out in the log book?

Tow vehicle to trailer safety list

Is the tow hitch securely fitted to the tow ball of the vehicle?

Are the safety chains attached (and crossed if two chains are present) to the vehicle?

Is the brake-away cable (if applicable) attached with the safety chains to the vehicle?

Is the trailer plug on the towing vehicle from the trailer secured, and is the jockey wheel raised with the handle to the rear?

Has the handbrake on the trailer (if applicable) been released?

Please print your name and then sign

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Frequently asked questions

How often should you conduct trailer inspections using this checklist?

You should conduct trailer inspections before each trip (pre-trip), during trips (en-route inspections at least every 150 miles), after trips (post-trip), and schedule comprehensive inspections quarterly. Additionally, DOT requires annual inspections by qualified inspectors. Using the checklist consistently for each inspection type ensures continuous monitoring of your trailer’s condition.

How can this trailer checklist template help prevent DOT violations?

This trailer checklist template helps prevent DOT violations by guiding inspectors through all required inspection points specified in 49 CFR 396 Appendix G. By systematically checking brakes, tires, lights, and coupling devices, you can identify and address issues before they become violations. The documentation created also serves as evidence of your maintenance program during audits.

What are the benefits of using a digital trailer checklist versus paper forms?

Digital trailer checklists provide immediate data capture with photo documentation of defects, automatic report generation, and secure cloud storage of inspection records. They eliminate paper handling, enable real-time sharing of issues with maintenance teams, and provide analytics on recurring problems. With GPS and timestamp features, they also create more credible documentation for compliance purposes.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.