Safety Checklist Before Every Trailer Haul

Tires and Wheels

Before you haul, thoroughly examine all trailer tires.

What to Check:

• Tire Pressure: Ensure all tires meet manufacturer-recommended PSI. Underinflated tires reduce fuel economy and increase blowout risk.
• Tread Depth: Use a gauge to verify tread depth is no less than 4/32” on steer tires and 2/32” on others.
• Sidewall Integrity: Look for cracks, bulges, or exposed cords.
• Lug Nuts and Wheel Seals: Make sure lug nuts are torqued to spec and wheel seals aren’t leaking.

Neglecting your wheels is like ignoring a ticking time bomb. A blown tire on the highway can take out your fender—or worse.

Braking System

A reliable brake system is non-negotiable, especially on heavy-duty trailers. Always inspect both the air brake system and drum or disc components.

Key Items:

• Air Pressure: Build pressure to 100–125 PSI and listen for leaks. Leaks can compromise braking performance under load.
• Slack Adjusters and Pushrods: Check free play. Out-of-spec components should be adjusted immediately.
• Brake Lining: Ensure thickness meets DOT minimum requirements and isn’t contaminated with oil or grease.
• Service and Emergency Brakes: Perform a tug test to confirm both engage and release properly.

Lights and Reflectors

Your lighting system does more than just help you see—it ensures others see you too.

What to Verify:

• Headlights, Brake Lights, and Turn Signals: Confirm all are functional and visible in daylight.
• Clearance and Marker Lights: These indicate trailer width—critical for nighttime visibility.
• Reflectors and DOT Tape: Ensure nothing’s faded, missing, or obstructed.

All lights and reflective devices must comply with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations to avoid penalties—and accidents.

Coupling Devices

Double-checking your trailer coupling could be the difference between a smooth haul and a catastrophic disconnect on the freeway.

Inspection Steps:

• Fifth Wheel Locking Jaw: Ensure it’s completely engaged around the kingpin.
• Kingpin Wear: Measure kingpin wear with a gauge—excessive wear can compromise lock-in strength.
• Mounting Bolts: Look for looseness or missing fasteners on the fifth wheel assembly.
• Air and Electrical Lines: Confirm lines are secure, not dragging, and that glad hands are sealed.

After coupling, always do a “pull test” by gently tugging the trailer with the parking brakes applied to verify a secure connection.

Suspension Components

Overlooking your suspension system can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and catastrophic failure.

Components to Review:

• Leaf Springs or Air Bags: Inspect for cracks, breaks, or air leaks.
• Shock Absorbers: Check for oil seepage or loosened mounts.
• Hangers and Bushings: Ensure they are secure and show no signs of excessive wear.

Remember, the suspension isn’t just about comfort—it maintains load stability and axle alignment during transit.

Load Securement

Loose cargo can shift during transit and throw off your trailer’s balance, or worse—break through and cause a serious accident.

Best Practices:

• Tie-Downs: Inspect for frays, rust, or cuts. Replace anything questionable.
• Chains and Binders: Ensure proper tension and positioning.
• Load Distribution: Verify that the load is evenly spread to prevent overloading one axle.
• Bulkheads and Dunnage: Ensure they’re in place and undamaged.

Your load is your responsibility—poor securement can result in hefty fines or criminal negligence charges.

Fluids and Leaks

A quick walkaround can reveal issues with essential fluids that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Areas to Inspect:

• Hydraulic and Brake Lines: Look for drips or dampness that indicate leaks.
• Wheel Seals: Any visible fluid means it's time for immediate repair.
• Coolant and Oil Hoses (on tractor): Swelling, cracking, or leaking hoses must be addressed before hitting the road.

Leaks don’t get better with time—they get worse, more expensive, and more dangerous.

Emergency Equipment

Lastly, confirm your emergency and safety equipment is in place and ready.

Requirements:

• Three Reflective Triangles: Must be stored and deployable.
• Spare Fuses: Stock extras in the fuse panel or toolbox.
• Fire Extinguisher: Rated 10 BC minimum, fully charged and mounted securely.
• Wheel Chocks: Particularly for trailer parking on inclines.

DOT compliance isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about being prepared for the unexpected.

Schedule Your Trailer Inspection Today

The reality is, your pre-haul trailer inspection is your first—and possibly only—line of defense against mechanical failure, DOT violations, and serious accidents. Each item on this list contributes to a safer haul, a longer equipment lifespan, and ultimately, a more professional operation.

If you need trailer preventive maintenance near Fontana, CA, reach out to our team at JB Trailer Service. We look forward to working with you.