Box Truck Inspection Procedure

Cargo Box Inspection Procedures

Follow these detailed procedures to ensure your box truck's cargo area is in optimal condition before loading. Proper inspection prevents cargo damage and ensures load security during transport.

Exterior Box Inspection

Walk around entire truck, examining all sides of cargo box
Check for dents, holes, or structural damage on walls
Inspect roof for damage, rust, or signs of water leaks
Examine box-to-cab connection points for security
Check corner posts and rails for damage or weakness
Inspect all external seams for gaps or separation
Verify reflective tape and markings are intact and visible
Look for scrape marks that might indicate height clearance issues

Rear Door Verification

Open rear doors fully, testing ease of operation
Inspect door hinges for damage, rust, or loose hardware
Check door seal gaskets for damage or compression
Verify door locking mechanisms function properly
Test door hold-open devices and ensure they lock securely
Check interior and exterior door handles for proper operation
Examine door panels for punctures or structural damage
Verify door closes and seals properly on all sides

Interior Cargo Space Check

Enter cargo area with flashlight for thorough inspection
Walk full length of floor, checking for soft spots or damage
Inspect interior walls for punctures, dents, or protruding hardware
Look at ceiling for signs of water intrusion or damage
Check all tie-down points by pulling firmly on each one
Test interior lighting system functionality
Inspect for cleanliness and absence of debris
Look for signs of pest infestation or unusual odors

Loading Equipment Inspection

Verify ramp or lift gate is properly stowed for travel
Deploy ramp or lift gate to test smooth operation
Check hydraulic system for leaks (if lift gate equipped)
Inspect lift gate platform for damage, cracks, or bending
Test lift gate controls from all positions
Verify safety features such as toe guards and warning lights
Check ramp surface for traction material integrity
Inspect attachment points and hinges for security

Mechanical & Safety System Procedures

These procedures focus on critical mechanical systems that affect safe operation. Complete these checks thoroughly to prevent breakdowns and ensure roadworthiness.

Engine & Fluid Inspection

Check engine oil level with dipstick on level surface
Verify coolant level in overflow reservoir
Inspect power steering and transmission fluid levels
Check brake fluid level in master cylinder
Inspect for fluid leaks under vehicle after overnight parking
Examine all belts for cracks, fraying, or improper tension
Check hoses for cracks, bulges, or leaks
Verify battery terminals are clean and connections tight

Brake System Verification

Test brake pedal for firmness and proper travel
With engine running, pump brakes and check for pedal fade
Apply parking brake and attempt to move vehicle in gear
Check brake warning lights with key in "on" position
Inspect visible brake components for leaks or damage
Test brake response during initial road check
Listen for unusual grinding or squealing during braking
Verify straight tracking with moderate brake application

Tire & Wheel Inspection

Check all tire pressures with accurate gauge
Inspect tire tread depth with proper measuring tool
Examine sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or damage
Look between dual tires for lodged objects or debris
Check all valve stems for caps and damage
Verify all lug nuts are present and tight
Inspect wheels for cracks, dents, or bent rims
Look for signs of uneven tire wear indicating alignment issues

Lighting & Electrical Check

Test headlights on both low and high beam settings
Verify all turn signals function correctly
Check brake lights with assistant or reflecting surface
Test hazard warning lights for proper function
Verify all clearance and marker lights are operational
Check interior dome lights and cargo area lighting
Test backup lights and alarm if equipped
Inspect visible wiring for fraying or damage

Operational Testing Procedures

After completing visual inspections, perform these operational tests to verify the box truck functions properly under actual working conditions.

Start-Up Procedure

Ensure transmission is in neutral or park position
Turn key to "on" position without starting engine
Check that all dashboard warning lights illuminate
Observe warning lights extinguish after engine start
Monitor oil pressure gauge reaches normal range
Check that charging system indicator shows proper function
Listen for unusual engine noises during warm-up
Verify engine idles smoothly without excessive smoke

Operational Controls Test

Test steering wheel for excessive play or binding
Verify horn operation with short test sound
Test windshield wipers at all speeds
Check windshield washer fluid spray pattern
Test climate control systems for proper function
Operate all power windows and door locks
Adjust mirrors for proper visibility
Test all auxiliary equipment controls

Lift Gate Operation Test

Clear area behind truck before testing
Activate lift gate to fully lowered position
Observe hydraulic system for smooth operation
Check for unusual noises or hydraulic leaks
Test all control switches from different positions
Place moderate test weight on platform if available
Raise and lower platform with test weight
Return lift gate to properly stowed position

Initial Movement Check

Ensure area around vehicle is clear
Release parking brake and place in drive or first gear
Move forward slowly checking for unusual resistance
Apply brakes gently to test initial response
Test transmission shifting through lower gears
Turn steering wheel left and right to check response
Listen for unusual sounds from drivetrain
Return to parking position and set parking brake

Documentation & Compliance Procedures

These procedures ensure your box truck meets regulatory requirements and that all necessary documentation is complete and accessible.

Required Documentation Check

Verify current registration is in vehicle
Confirm insurance documents are present and valid
Check that vehicle inspection report forms are available
Review previous inspection reports for unresolved issues
Verify driver's license is current with proper class
Ensure medical card is present if required
Check for necessary permits based on operation type
Confirm emergency contact information is available

Safety Equipment Verification

Check fire extinguisher for proper charge and mounting
Verify emergency reflectors/triangles are present
Inspect first aid kit for completeness
Confirm spare fuses are available if required
Check for functional flashlight with working batteries
Verify wheel chocks are present and accessible
Inspect safety vest or high-visibility clothing
Confirm cargo securement equipment is adequate

Weight & Dimension Compliance

Verify vehicle height is clearly marked in cab
Check Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) on door sticker
Confirm understanding of local bridge and weight restrictions
Document empty vehicle weight if scale is available
Verify cargo distribution plan complies with weight limits
Check route for low clearance or weight restricted areas
Ensure cargo weight documentation is available
Verify axle weights will remain within legal limits

Inspection Documentation

Record odometer reading at start of inspection
Document all inspection results completely
Note any defects requiring immediate attention
Indicate lower priority maintenance issues found
Include photos of damage or defects if possible
Sign and date inspection report
Submit inspection report through proper channels
Retain copy of report for personal records if required

Post-Trip Inspection Procedures

These procedures should be completed at the end of each trip to identify any issues that developed during operation and to prepare the vehicle for its next use.

End-of-Day Exterior Check

Walk around vehicle checking for new damage
Inspect cargo box for damage that occurred during operation
Check under vehicle for fluid leaks or hanging components
Inspect tires for damage, cuts, or significant wear
Look for impact damage on bumpers and lower body
Verify all doors are secured and locked
Check that lift gate is properly stowed
Document any new damage or issues found

Cargo Area Post-Trip Check

Ensure cargo area is completely empty
Check for damage to walls, floor, or ceiling from cargo
Remove any garbage or debris left in cargo area
Inspect tie-down points that were used for damage
Look for fluid leaks or spills that need cleaning
Check for protruding nails, screws, or other hazards
Verify interior lights still function properly
Close and secure all interior compartments

Cab Closeout Procedure

Remove all personal items and garbage
Check gauges for any warning indicators
Record final odometer reading
Document fuel level at trip completion
Note any operational issues experienced during trip
Turn off all electrical accessories
Ensure truck keys are returned to proper location
Secure cab by locking all doors

Defect Reporting

Complete driver vehicle inspection report
Document all defects found during operation
Categorize issues by severity and safety impact
Report safety-critical issues immediately to supervisor
Take photos of significant damage or defects
Submit inspection report through proper channels
Communicate verbally any serious concerns
Follow up on previous reports if issues remain unresolved