If your building material supply business operates commercial trucks—whether for local deliveries or regional freight—you’re on the DOT’s radar. Roadside inspections are unannounced, and how your team handles them can impact your safety rating, insurance costs, and operational downtime.
Here’s how to prepare so your drivers—and your business—pass with flying colors.
- Know What Inspectors Look For
DOT roadside inspections are standardized and may include checks on:
Driver credentials
Hours of service (HOS) logs
Vehicle condition
Load securement
Hazmat compliance (if applicable)
Most inspections fall under the North American Standard Inspection Levels 1–6, with Level 1 being the most thorough.
- Ensure Proper Driver Documentation
Drivers should always carry:
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Medical examiner’s certificate
Vehicle registration
Proof of insurance
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) with up-to-date logs
Bill of lading or delivery paperwork
Train your drivers to present these documents calmly and professionally.
- Keep Vehicles Inspection-Ready
Inspectors will check:
Brake lights, turn signals, tires, mirrors
Windshield wipers, horn, emergency equipment
Cargo securement (straps, chains, tie-downs)
Fire extinguisher and warning triangles
Recent maintenance or inspection stickers
Conduct daily pre-trip inspections and fix issues immediately to avoid violations.
- Stay Compliant with Hours of Service Rules
Drivers must comply with federal HOS regulations, which include:
Maximum daily and weekly driving limits
Required rest breaks
Proper use of ELDs
Violations in this area are among the most common—and can lead to fines or vehicle out-of-service orders.
- Train Drivers on What to Expect
Your drivers should know:
How to speak respectfully with inspectors
How to access logs and inspection reports
What to do if they’re pulled out of service
When and how to report inspection outcomes to management
Include this in driver onboarding and refresh regularly.
- Keep Records and Follow Up
Track:
Vehicle maintenance logs
Driver training certifications
Past inspection reports
Any violations and resolutions
A modern ERP or fleet management system can help automate much of this tracking.
Final Word: DOT roadside inspections don’t have to be stressful—if your team knows what’s expected and you’ve built compliance into your daily routine. A little preparation now can save you from costly downtime and penalties later.
