The Value of Service Records: What Every Semi-Truck Buyer Should Know
Passing your reefer trailer DOT inspection is an important part of your trucking business.
If you are a first time reefer trailer owner, it is important that you understand everything you need to do to make sure your reefer trailer is legal and can pass an inspection with the Department of Transportation (DOT).
DOT regulates transportation safety in the United States to ensure everyone is following the same standards and doing their part to keep everyone on the road safe.
Reefer Trailer DOT Inspection Quick Facts
- Any commercial motor vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds must pass a DOT inspection every year.
- This yearly inspection is usually performed by a DOT inspector or a state police officer.
- Before you purchase a reefer trailer, let’s make sure you know what those requirements look like.
- Every reefer trailer at Pedigree Truck & Trailer Sales is DOT inspected before it leaves our property. If you purchase from us, this is one less step you have to take to ensure your trailer is road ready! We handle it for you!
Semi Truck Inspection Reports
According to the Department of Transportation, the following checklist will need to be completed for each DOT Inspection on a reefer trailer:
- Overall Condition: The general state of your semi-truck, including cleanliness and any visible damage.
- Brake System: Proper brake operation, air leaks, and the condition of brake components are inspected.
- Steering System: Inspectors assess the steering system for wear and proper functionality.
- Lights & Signals: All lights and signals must be functional, securely mounted, and clearly visible.
- Tires & Wheels: Tires are checked for adequate tread depth, wear patterns, and proper inflation, while wheels and rims are inspected for cracks or damage.
- Cargo Securement: The inspector verifies that cargo is properly secured according to regulations.
- Exhaust System: The exhaust system is inspected for condition and functionality.
- Fuel System: Inspectors check for any leaks or damage in the fuel system.
When you are purchasing your trailer, it is important to a self inspection the reefer trailer so you know you are getting reliable equipment that is road ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About DOT Trailer Inspections
What is the purpose of a DOT inspection on a reefer trailer?
An annual DOT inspection is performed each year to ensure the equipment you are driving down the road is not a safety hazard to yourself or other drivers. These inspection help maintain the safety of the reefer trailer by identifying and addressing any issues or hazards.
Does the DOT regulate how often repairs must be performed on a commercial trailer?
No, the DOT does not specify how often repairs must be performed. However, to ensure your equipment is well maintained and operating properly, we suggest you repair issues as soon as you discover them. Driving your trailer with damage is not good for the long-term life of your equipment.
While they do not specify how or when you should repair your reefer trailer, each reefer trailer is required to pass an annual DOT inspection to ensure it is in safe operating condition.
Where are the inspection and maintenance records housed on a reefer trailer?
If you purchased your reefer trailer from Pedigree Truck & Trailer Sales, you will find the DOT Inspection records in a tube at the front of the reefer trailer. It will be located directly under the reefer unit.
Who can do a DOT inspection on a reefer trailer?
DOT inspections on reefer trailers should be conduted by a qualified DOT inspector, a mechanic certified to perform DOT inspections, or a state police officer who has been trained in commercial vehicles.
At Pedigree, we have several mechanics who have been certified to perform these inspections.
Are the DOT requirements different for each state?
DOT Inspection are federally mandated which means the rules are the same from state to state.
However, individual states may have additional regulations. You should be aware of both federal and state requirements to ensure you business is DOT compliant.
Do I follow the rules in my state or the state where I purchased the reefer trailer?
You must follow the DOT rules and regulations in the state where the reefer trailer is registered and operated. If you travel across state lines, you are also required to comply with federal DOT regulations and any specific state-level requirements in the states where you operate. For example, here are the current trucking guidelines for the state of Missouri where our Pedigree headquarters is based.
What happens if I don’t pass a DOT Inspection?
- Fines or Penalties: You may face monetary fines depending on the violations found during the inspection.
- Out-of-Service Order: Your trailer may be placed out of service, meaning it cannot legally operate until the issues are resolved.
- Delivery Delays: If the trailer is out of service, it can disrupt your schedules, costing you time and money.
- Higher Repair Costs: Neglected issues may require costly emergency repairs to bring the trailer up to compliance.
- Impact on CSA Score: Non-compliance affects your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) score, potentially impacting future inspections and your reputation.
How can I prepare for a DOT roadside inspection?
- Always do your pre-check. It is designed to help you keep an eye on these systems.
- Keep all required documents (logs, inspection reports, insurance) easily accessible.
- Perform a walkaround inspection before hitting the road.
- Ensure that all lights, brakes, and safety equipment are functioning correctly.
What maintenance records should I keep for my reefer trailer?
You should retain records of all inspections, repairs, and routine maintenance. Federal regulations require that you keep these documents for at least one year or six months after a vehicle is no longer in service.
Do DOT inspections include reefer temperature performance?
- No, DOT inspections focus on mechanical and safety compliance. However, maintaining the reefer unit’s performance is critical for transporting temperature-sensitive goods and avoiding penalties for spoiled cargo.
Ready to purchase a DOT inspected reefer trailer? Our Trailer Experts would love to send you 2-3 of the trailers we have in our inventory to see if they will meet your business needs. You can also see our online inventory here.
