The seven areas every roadside inspector checks first — and the form fields most drivers miss.
1. Date and driver identification
Date format consistent (MM/DD/YYYY). Driver name printed clearly, not just signed.
2. Vehicle identification
Tractor number, trailer number (if applicable), license plate. If you have multiple trucks at your carrier, write the tractor unit number, not the VIN.
3. Odometer
Start-of-day reading. If you drove a different truck the previous day, this resets your record.
4. Inspection checklist
Brakes, parking brake, steering, lighting, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, coupling, wheels/rims, emergency equipment. Check “OK” or “Defect” for each line.
5. Defects section
If you checked “Defect” on any line, describe it in writing here. “Tire low” is not enough. “Front-left steer tire below 32 PSI per gauge” is.
6. Action taken
What was done about the defect. “Tire inflated to 105 PSI by Driver X at the truck stop.”
7. Signatures
Driver signature, mechanic signature (if defect repaired). Date both signatures.