Ok, so I think I have beat (and tried ride again) the dead horse on this. So what is the actual inspection? Well each company has the freedom to create its own program, and set their own standards.
Source: www.cttransportation.com
Pre-trip Inspection For Class A Trucks
Every major organization that has fleet vehicles must have pre-trip inspection Class A checklist. Whether it is a small trucking company or major transporter they need to perform pre-trip inspections.
They must meet the DOT pre-trip inspection requirements . Companies can make them to be even more in-depth but can’t be a lower level.
For example the Department of Labor (DOL) observes the standard OSHA pre-trip inspection. The following is taken directly from their website:
Vehicle Inspection Checklist
At the beginning of each shift, all vehicles that will be used must be inspected to assure that they are in safe operating condition and free of apparent damage that could lead to an accident.
All defects must be corrected before the vehicle is placed in service.
Inspect the following parts, equipment, and accessories:
