Trailer Interchange Inspection
A structured inspection of all trailers at the point of interchange to formally assess and document structural condition, lighting, brakes, tires, and all critical safety components, ensuring clear accountability for any existing damage or deficiencies and maintaining compliance with applicable transportation safety and fleet management standards.
Fleet Maintenance and Telematics, Inc.
10/21/2026
Trailer Interchange Inspection
This procedure ensures that all trailers are thoroughly inspected and formally documented at the point of interchange between carriers, operators, or facilities, covering structural integrity, lighting, brakes, tires, kingpin, landing gear, and cargo securement systems, establishing clear accountability for existing damage or deficiencies, preventing liability disputes, and supporting compliance with applicable transportation safety and fleet management regulations.
Lighting, 7-Way Socket, Wiring, Conspicuity/Reflective Tape
Inspect all lamps for proper operation and illumination. Inspect the 7-way housing and socket for damage. Inspect wiring at the lateral turn lamps and rear marker lamps for corrosion, damage, or exposed conductors. Inspect reflective tape for damage, deterioration, or missing sections.
Landing Gears, Undercarriage, Mud Flaps
Inspect landing gear assemblies and support braces for cracks, corrosion, deformation, or other conditions affecting structural integrity. Inspect hanging air lines at the slider axle for damage, wear, or chafing, and verify they are securely fastened. Inspect mud flap brackets for damage, deformation, or other conditions affecting structural integrity. Inspect mud flaps for proper coverage and length. Verify mud flaps cover the full width of both tires and are not more than 8 inches above the ground.
Exterior Trailer Body
Inspect side panels, corner radius assemblies, top rails, bottom rails, rear bumper, and rear frame components for cracks, damage, excessive corrosion, deformation, loose fasteners, or other conditions affecting structural integrity.
Doors
Inspect doors and door hardware for damage, excessive wear, corrosion, weathering, loose or missing fasteners, and other conditions that may affect structural integrity, proper operation, or weather-tight sealing. Inspect door seals and gaskets for damage, deterioration, or missing sections.
Interior and Floor
Inspect the roof, interior panels, and scuff liners for perforations, sharp edges, damage, or other conditions that may compromise cargo protection or create a safety hazard. Inspect the floor for protruding nails, breaks, cracks, delamination, excessive wear, and cleanliness. Verify the floor is free of debris and foreign material that may damage cargo or create a safety hazard.
Sub-Frame Locking Pins, Linear Actuators, Air Brake System
Test the auto-reset valve for proper operation. Verify the sub-frame locking pins retract and engage properly. Inspect the linear actuators for air leaks or damage. Supply air to the trailer and test all pneumatic systems for proper operation. Verify the air system is free of audible air leaks. Test the air brake system for proper operation.
Suspension, Wheel Ends
Inspect suspension components, hangers, torque arms, and mounting hardware for damage, excessive wear, or loose fasteners. Inspect air springs for damage or leaks and verify proper inflation and ride height. Inspect wheel ends for oil or grease leaks, damaged components, or other conditions affecting safe operation.
Tires and Wheels
Inspect tires for exposed belt material, tread or sidewall separation, cuts exposing belt material, improper inflation, or audible air leaks. Verify tire tread depth is at least 2/32 in. when measured in a major tread groove. Inspect wheels for cracks, bends, or other damage affecting serviceability. Inspect wheel stud holes for elongation or other signs of wear. Verify all wheel nuts are present and properly secured.
Load Status
Equipment Status
Inspector Signature
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Source: Fleet Maintenance and Telematics, Inc. (Community Member)