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Ensuring the safety and functionality of your equipment is a critical first step before any trip. For carriers in intermodal trucking, the importance of inspecting containers, chassis, and equipment cannot be overstated. A thorough pre-trip inspection helps avoid costly delays, safety hazards, and potential damage to freight.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for carriers to check their equipment and keep their operations running smoothly.

Why Inspections Matter
Faulty equipment can lead to severe consequences, from trailer detachments to compromised freight. For intermodal trips, carriers typically haul containers attached to chassis. These components, often owned by the railroads, require careful inspection to prevent issues like cracks, faulty locking pins, or damaged tires.

Even seemingly minor problems, such as holes in a container or a missing seal, can result in freight being rejected at its final destination. By prioritizing inspections, carriers can avoid service interruptions, maintain safety, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

The Step-By-Step Inspection Checklist begins with the chassis.
First, ensure the front locking pin securely locks the container to the chassis, checking for any damage and verifying that the latch is intact. Inspect the seven-way connector to confirm that all lights are functional, and check that the gladhands are sturdy and capable of connecting emergency and service lines. Additionally, confirm that all marker lights are present and functioning, as these are required on all trailers in the U.S.

Next, inspect the landing gear for any cracks or missing bolts that could destabilize the container during loading or unloading. Confirm that the registration plate is visible, the chassis number is correct, and the registration is up to date.

For tires and brakes, examine the tires for damage, flat spots, or other signs of wear. To check for holes in the container, close all doors and look for light peering through. When inspecting the brakes, use a go/no-go gauge to ensure the brake lining is at least ¼ inch thick.

Moving on to the tandems, verify that they slide correctly to distribute the container’s weight evenly across the chassis. Adjust the tandems as necessary to comply with state guidelines. In California, for example, the rear axle must be set no more than 40 feet from the kingpin.

Finally, assess the general condition of the container and chassis. Look for any cracks, holes, or other damage, as a damaged container may not be accepted at the warehouse, leading to wasted miles. Also, confirm that the container’s rear door seal is intact, as a missing or broken seal could compromise the freight inside. Make sure the container is mounted properly and all pins secured!

Free Rail Yard Services
If any issues are identified during the inspection, take advantage of rail yard services, as repairs are typically free. Once you leave with the container, responsibility for any damages shifts to you, making it essential to resolve problems on-site. One key service is roadability, which ensures that the chassis meets all safety and maintenance standards required for road use. Railyards perform systematic inspections and necessary repairs to comply with FMCSA regulations, preventing potential fines or safety hazards during transport. If the chassis is damaged, incompatible, or otherwise unsuitable, you may need a chassis flip, where the container is transferred from one chassis to another using specialized equipment. Addressing these issues before departure ensures compliance and prevents costly delays on the road.

A pre-trip inspection may seem like an extra step, but it’s an investment in the success of your operation. As carriers, developing a routine for checking equipment can help avoid disruptions, reduce costs, and maintain high service standards. By keeping these tips in mind, carriers can ensure they’re set up for success before hitting the road.