Download our Apps and get 14 Days Free Trial
International Truck Daily Operation and Compliance Checklist
Introduction
Daily inspections are crucial for the safety, performance, and regulatory compliance of International Trucks. This comprehensive checklist helps drivers and fleet managers identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly downtime. A thorough daily inspection not only ensures DOT compliance but also maximizes productivity and extends the service life of your International Truck.
Following this International Truck daily operation and compliance checklist as part of your routine helps create a safer work environment, prevents unexpected breakdowns during critical operations, and provides documentation for maintenance records and regulatory requirements. The checklist aligns with DOT regulations, FMCSA requirements, manufacturer specifications, and industry best practices for commercial truck safety and maintenance.
Equipment Information
Pro Tips for Effective International Truck Inspection
- Complete Inspection Before Starting Trip: Always perform a complete vehicle inspection before starting your trip to identify potential safety issues and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of all inspections, defects, and repairs to protect against liability and demonstrate regulatory compliance during audits.
- Focus on Safety-Critical Items: Pay special attention to brakes, tires, steering, and lights - the most common areas for DOT violations and components most critical to safe operation.
- Report Defects Immediately: Don't delay reporting defects - immediately document and report any issues to ensure timely repairs and maintain your fleet's safety record.
Pre-Trip Documentation
Engine Compartment
Brake System
Suspension & Steering
Tires & Wheels
Lights & Electrical
Cab Interior
Coupling Devices
Regulatory Compliance
Fluid Leaks & General Condition
Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough inspection of your International Truck. These procedures align with DOT requirements and manufacturer recommendations.
Air Brake Test Procedure
- Start engine and build air pressure to governed cut-out (120-140 psi)
- Turn off engine, release parking brake, and press brake pedal firmly
- Hold for one minute and note pressure drop (should not exceed 3 psi)
- Start engine and rebuild pressure to governed cut-out
- Turn off engine and apply foot brake several times to reduce tank pressure
- Verify low air warning device activates by 55-60 psi
- Continue applying brake until parking brake valve pops out (20-40 psi)
Coupling Inspection Procedure
- Check that fifth wheel is securely mounted to the frame
- Verify no space between upper and lower fifth wheel
- Ensure locking jaws are closed around the kingpin
- Check that release lever is properly seated and safety latch engaged
- Verify that kingpin is not bent and not worn beyond limits
- Check all air and electrical connections are properly made
Light Function Check Procedure
- Turn on headlights and verify both low and high beams work
- Check all clearance, marker, and identification lights
- Activate left and right turn signals (front and rear)
- Apply brake pedal and check brake lights
- Activate 4-way flashers and check all four corners
- Verify backup lights work (if equipped)
- Inspect all reflectors and reflective tape for condition
Tire Inspection Procedure
- Check tire pressure with a gauge on all tires
- Measure tread depth (minimum 4/32" front, 2/32" other tires)
- Inspect sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or signs of impact damage
- Check for dual tire spacing and debris between tires
- Verify valve stems have caps and are not damaged
- Check rims for cracks, dents, or welded repairs
- Inspect all lug nuts for tightness and signs of movement
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Driver Certification
I hereby certify that I have inspected all items listed above in accordance with 49 CFR 396.11 and 396.13 and they are in proper working condition, except for the defects noted below.
Apply Signature
Defects & Maintenance Notes
Maintenance Guidelines
These guidelines outline recommended maintenance tasks to complement your daily inspections. Following these schedules helps prevent equipment failures and extends the service life of your International Truck.
Daily Maintenance
- Check all fluid levels before starting engine
- Drain water separator in fuel system
- Check tire pressure and condition
- Inspect brake system for proper operation
- Clean windshield, mirrors, and lights
Weekly Maintenance
- Check battery electrolyte level and connections
- Inspect and clean air filter elements
- Check all belts for tension and condition
- Lubricate chassis and suspension points
- Inspect brake lines and hoses
Monthly Maintenance
- Change engine oil and filter (per OEM schedule)
- Check all hydraulic connections for leaks
- Inspect transmission and drive axles
- Check wheel bearing adjustment
- Tighten all loose bolts and fittings
- Inspect brake linings and drums
Quarterly Maintenance
- Change fuel filters
- Check DEF system components
- Inspect cooling system thoroughly
- Service air dryer
- Check DPF/aftertreatment system
- Conduct thorough brake adjustment
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive International Truck Daily Operation and Compliance Checklist is essential for maintaining vehicle safety, performance, and compliance with DOT regulations. By systematically inspecting critical components before each trip, drivers can identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly violations.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit software to streamline your daily truck inspections. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle in your fleet. With the FleetRabbit APP, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all vehicles are properly inspected.
Make International Truck inspections an integral part of your fleet safety protocols with the FleetRabbit software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for DOT compliance, warranty maintenance, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on drivers and maintenance personnel.
Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP
© 2025 International Truck Daily Operation and Compliance Checklist | Developed by FleetRabbit | Contact us at support@fleetrabbit.com for customized inspection solutions.