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Vehicle pre-start checklist

Vehicle pre-start checklist

Verify your vehicles are safe and ready for operation. This guide helps you maintain compliance with safety standards and look out for issues.

Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.
  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Assign and track corrective actions
  • Get reports and analyse your data
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Vehicle pre-start checklist

Verify your vehicles are safe and ready for operation. This guide helps you maintain compliance with safety standards and look out for issues.

Use this template with Lumiform

The Lumiform application helps frontline teams uphold internal standards effortlessly.
  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Assign and track corrective actions
  • Get reports and analyse your data
Prices start from ░░░ per month
Book a demo
Learn more
or Download template as PDF

Your vehicle pre-start checklist ensures you inspect critical safety components are inspected before operation. These includee the windscreen condition, fluid levels, lights, safety equipment, and vehicle cleanliness. You can easily document compliance status and track corrective actions for any issues found.

According to the UK Health and Safety Executive, drivers should check tires, lights, and indicators at the start of every shift to maintain safety standards. With this template, you can reduce the risk of on-road incidents while extending your fleet’s operational life.

Related categories

Preview of the template
Audit
Instructions ------------------- 1. Answer "Compliant", "Non-Compliant" or "N/A" for the questions below. 2. Add photos and notes by clicking on the paperclip icon. 3. To add a Corrective Measure, click on the paperclip icon then "Add Action", provide a description, assign to a member, set priority and due date. 4. Complete audit by providing digital signature. 5. Share your report by exporting as PDF, Word, Excel or Web Link.
Vehicle Information
Fuel Type
Height of Vehicle Unladen
Max. Payload
Vehicle Pre-Start Inspection
Choose the day of the week:
Safety
WINDSCREEN: Damage Free and Screen Wash Level
OIL: Check Engine Oil & Brake Fluid Levels
LIGHTS: Check tailights / indicators / headlight / interior
SEATBELTS: Check all in good condition
JACK: Check wheel brace in the vehicle
FIRE EXTINGUISHER: Must be in vehicle
FIRST AID KIT: Must be in vehicle
Equipment
TYRES: Check Condition and Pressure (PSI written on side of tyres)
TROLLEY - Is there a trolley in the vehicle?
SCALES - Are scales in the vehicle?
No. of crates In
No. of crates out
External Bodywork
Check external bodywork for any new scratches, dints etc.
Cleaning
CABIN: Clean Daily
FRIDGE: Clean Daily
EXTERIOR: Clean Weekly
Fuel
Must be a minimum of 3/4 full. (Do not wait until end of day)
Completion
Signature
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Frequently asked questions

What if I find a non-compliant item during my vehicle pre-start check?

Document the issue as “non-compliant” on your checklist, take photos of the problem, and create a corrective action. Assign responsibility to the appropriate team member, set priority based on safety impact, and establish a realistic deadline. For safety-critical items like brake failures or tire issues, the vehicle shouldn’t be operated until repairs are completed.

Who is responsible for filling out the vehicle pre-start checklist?

The vehicle operator or driver is typically responsible for completing the pre-start checklist. This ensures the person using the equipment verifies its condition firsthand. Fleet managers should provide proper training on inspection procedures and establish clear protocols for reporting and addressing issues found during these checks.

What should I include in the notes section of my vehicle pre-start checklist?

Include specific details about any issues found, such as the exact location of damage, unusual sounds or behaviors, fluid leak colors, or warning light messages. Add context about when the problem started if known. Clear, detailed notes help maintenance teams diagnose problems faster and implement more effective repairs.

Can I customize this vehicle pre-start checklist for different types of vehicles?

Yes, you can adapt this template for specific vehicle types by adding or modifying inspection points relevant to your fleet. For example, add specialized equipment checks for delivery vehicles or additional safety items for passenger transport. Just ensure all critical safety components remain in the customized version.

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.