A 5-point pre-trip inspection for intermodal chassis using the T-H-W-L-T method: Tires, Hubs, Wheels, Lights, Tape. Check tread depth, sidewall damage, hub condition, rim cracks, lug nuts, and reflective tape. Document any defect on the DVIR and reject unsafe equipment.
Pre-trip inspections matter every day, but they matter even more when you're picking up a new pool chassis. You're at the terminal, you're rushed, and the chassis looks good enough. But you can't assume it's good just because it's in the pool. Skip a real pre-trip and you risk downtime, missed appointments, and a roadside inspection that turns into an out-of-service problem. Here's the responsibility split: the IEP maintains major systems, but you must verify roadability before you move it. The DOT expects you to be satisfied the equipment is safe to operate. If you spot a defect, document it clearly. This check takes about 10 minutes when you follow the same routine every time. 5 points: tires, hubs, wheels, lights, tape. Say it with me: T-H-W-L-T. Tires, hubs, wheels, lights, tape. Same order, every pickup, every time. Start with tires. You're looking for tread depth, sidewall damage, and obvious low air. Catching tire issues here saves headaches later. Tread depth matters. If wear bars are flush, it's done. Then scan for cuts, cracks, or bulges. A bulge is an automatic no-go. Now check for obvious low air. If one looks soft compared to the others, Treat it as a red flag. Confirm with a gauge when possible. Next, hubs and wheel seals. This is a quick visual check that can prevent a wheel-end failure. Look right at the center of the wheel. What do you want to see? Dry and clean. What you don't want to see is wet, oily streaks radiating out from the hub area. A leaking hub can lead to bearing failure and even fire risk. If it's wet and fresh, treat it as serious. Do not ignore it. Next, wheels, rims, and lug nuts. Do a fast sweep on both sides. You're looking for anything missing, cracked, bent, or shifting. Check the rim for cracks or bends, especially around the lug holes. Impacts and curbs can damage rims. If it looks wrong, document it. Then check lugs. All present, no looseness signs. Watch for rust trails at a lug nut. That often means movement, and movement can mean loose. Next, lights. Plug in and run the same sequence every time so you don't miss one. Lighting issues are common and easy to catch here. Brake lights first, then taillights with the headlights on, then left turn, right turn, and hazards. Make sure they actually function. Finish lights with marker and clearance lights. If any are out, they're That can be a quick fix at the terminal, not on the road. Last, reflective tape. Scan both sides and the rear. If it's missing, damaged, or buried in grime, you've got a visibility and compliance problem. Sometimes tape is just dirty. A quick wipe can restore reflectivity and save you from attention at night or during an inspection. Now, if you find a defect that affects safe operation, document it on the DVIR. The DVIR is your record that you inspected and acted. Be specific. Write what it is and where it is. Example: driver's side rear tire below 2/32 tread. That is clear and defensible. If it's unsafe or illegal, reject it. Notify the gate or dispatch. Request another chassis. Keep records. This is general guidance. Follow your company procedures and applicable FMCSR requirements, and don't operate equipment you believe is unsafe. Thanks for watching and stay safe out there.
