Heavy vehicle mid-trip inspection guide
A mid-trip check confirms that the vehicle, trailer and load remain safe after movement, vibration, braking and heat have affected the combination.
The inspection starts with the stopping place
- Use an authorised area with firm ground and enough space for the complete combination.
- Park clear of traffic, overhead hazards and pedestrians.
- Apply the required brakes, select the correct gear or park position and secure the vehicle.
- Wear required PPE and maintain awareness of other moving vehicles.
- Do not touch brakes, hubs, exhaust components or other hot parts.
Look for change since the pre-trip check
Tyres and wheels
Damage, deflation, objects, loose or missing hardware, abnormal heat signs and anything that has shifted.
Leaks and smells
Fresh fluid, air leaks, smoke, burning smell or unusual heat can indicate a developing fault.
Couplings and lines
Locks, release handles, air and electrical lines, safety connections, landing legs and clearances remain secure.
Load and body
Doors, curtains, gates, tarps, restraints and the load have not loosened, shifted or become unsafe.
Lights and reflectors
Clean, secure and operating; lenses and visible wiring not damaged.
Air and warning systems
Pressure, gauges and warning systems remain normal before re-entering traffic.
Check every trailer, not only the prime mover
Walk the complete combination. With multiple trailers, repeat the coupling, wheels, body, load, lights and line checks for each unit.
Know what requires immediate action
Stop and isolate
Use the workplace and vehicle rules for critical brakes, steering, tyres, coupling, load, warning or structural faults. Do not continue because of schedule pressure.
Record and report
Describe the location, symptom, time and conditions clearly. Do not claim to have repaired or cleared a fault unless authorised and competent.
Pre-trip, continuous monitoring and mid-trip are one system
This is a general educational guide. Follow the current assessment method, vehicle manual, load-restraint requirements and your employer or provider procedure.