A pre-trip inspection is more than a DOT requirement — it’s your first line of defense against mechanical failure, missed loads, or a roadside violation. At Anderson Trucking Service (ATS), two seasoned trucking professionals teamed up to walk through a full trailer inspection, sharing tips, reminders, and safety insights that every commercial driver can benefit from. This isn’t theory. It’s the kind of real-world knowledge that comes from years of experience working with drivers, customers, equipment, and safety teams across the country. Here’s a breakdown of what they covered and what you should look for every time you get behind the wheel. Start at the Front: Air, Coupling, and Structure They begin at the front of the trailer, starting with the glad hands and air lines. You’re checking for cracks, worn seals, and anything that might lead to an air leak. From there, move on to the kingpin and fifth wheel, where a secure, visible lock-in is critical. Remember, it’s not enough to hear the click: you’ve got to get under the trailer and confirm the jaws are wrapped around the kingpin. Next, check the landing gear, making sure all bolts are tight and nothing is bent or cracked. A quick scan of crossmembers and the primary frame will help you catch any structural issues early. Bolts missing? Rust at key joints? Those are red flags that can get you sidelined. Securement and D-Rings While inspecting the trailer structure, make sure D-rings and other securement points are in place and undamaged. Improper or compromised securement can affect how a load shifts — and how the trailer handles under weight. One important note: check the dunnage. It should be wider than it is tall to keep it from rolling or slipping under pressure. It’s a small detail, but one that can make or break load safety. Lights, Tape, and Turn Signals Lighting is one of the most common inspection fails. Every light needs to be operational, turn signals, brake lights, marker lights, and four-ways. And don’t forget the reflective tape down the side of the trailer. Federal regulations require at least 50% coverage, and it should be clean and unbroken. A clean light is a bright light. Whether you’re hauling in Texas heat, through Minnesota snow, or on a dusty job site out west, road grime can make lights harder to see. Wipe them down regularly to maintain visibility, especially at night. Tires and Air Pressure Tire condition and pressure are make-or-break items on a pre-trip. Don’t just thump them with a hammer. Use a gauge and check for consistent pressure between duals. Mismatched tire pressure causes uneven wear, reduces fuel efficiency, and increases your risk of a blowout. In this inspection, both tires read 113 PSI, right in line. That level of precision may not always be possible, but you should never see a difference of 10, 15, or 20 PSI between tires. Also inspect the: • Wheels for cracks or bent edges • Lug nuts for tightness and signs of movement • Hub seals for leaks • Slider locks for full engagement Brake System and Suspension From the air canisters to the slack adjusters, everything in the brake system needs to be intact, connected, and secure. Listen closely for leaks. Any hissing or escaping air could indicate a problem with the hoses or fittings. The professionals in the video highlight the importance of checking: • Brake shoes for wear (look for manufacturer wear bars or cutout designs) • Slack adjusters and S-cams for full range of movement • Cotter pins and retainers for proper installation • Airbags for dry rot or cracks • Push rods for correct connection and secure mounting If any of these components are loose or damaged, braking performance suffers. That’s a risk no one wants to take. Rear Trailer Components As you move to the rear of the trailer, don’t forget to check: • DOT bumper for cracks or missing bolts • Mud flaps and mounting brackets • Brake and turn lights • Slack adjusters on both axles A final note from the team: be mindful of the hub area. Loose hub bolts or missing lubrication can cause a catastrophic failure, including wheel loss. It’s not common, but when it happens, the results are serious. How Far Should Brake Lights Be Visible? According to one experienced ATS team member, you should aim for brake light visibility at 650 feet. That’s the same distance you need to come to a complete stop at highway speeds. If your lights are dirty, cracked, or dim, you’re not just risking a citation — you’re compromising your safety and that of the motoring public. The Little Things Make a Big Difference The professionals performing this inspection emphasize one big takeaway: the small details are what DOT officers and serious carriers notice first. Clean lights, working signals, intact reflectors, and fully inflated tires make your truck inspection-ready at a glance. But they also help protect your load, your license, and your bottom line. Why It Matters Whether you’re hauling wind components in the Midwest or steel beams in the South, every pre-trip inspection gives you the chance to take control of your day before the road does. The DOT isn’t the only one watching. Your career, your safety, and your paycheck depend on staying alert, informed, and ahead of the game. Drive safe. Inspect smart. And keep it tight.

The definition of "best" company Landstar Keen Transport Lone Star Transportation Daily Express Inc. Bennett Motor Express Henderson Heavy Haul Construction Truck and Trailer Do you take pride in the loads you haul? Do you see huge trucks going down the road with wind turbines and think, “Hey, I want to do that!”? If you have the dedication and the safety score to prove it and the experience hauling oversized loads, maybe heavy haul is the next step you’d like to take. But the thing about heavy haul is that it’s not just something that you decide you want to do and jump into overnight. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Let’s face it: Not everyone has $150,000 burning a hole in their pocket to buy a shiny new truck outright. That’s where leasing comes in — a chance to take the wheel of your own rig without having to sell a kidney or start a GoFundMe to get the funds. But is it the right move for you? Let’s break it down (hopefully not like your truck might if you skip maintenance). Who’s the Right Fit for Leasing? Leasing isn’t for everyone. The drivers who crush it in a lease program usually have some solid trucking experience under their belts. You’ve been around, you know how the industry works, and you’ve survived at least one parking lot showdown over a stolen spot at the truck stop. Bonus points if you’ve got a financial cushion for when things go sideways (because they will—this is trucking, not a Disney movie). If you’re new to trucking, it might be smart to hold off on leasing until you’ve had time to learn the ropes. Jumping into a lease with no experience is like playing poker with your rent money — it’s risky, and you might end up eating ramen for months. What to Look for in a Lease Not all leases are created equal, and some are about as trustworthy as a Craigslist ad for “lightly used brake pads.” Here’s what to keep in mind: Pay Structure: Understand how different programs compensate drivers. For example, one lease may pay 70 percent of gross revenue but have higher expenses, while another pays 62 percent with fewer costs. Expenses: Look for hidden fees, such as trailer rentals, maintenance charges, or plate costs. Insurance: As a lease driver, you'll need to secure your own health, dental, and vision insurance. Programs tailored for truckers can help mitigate costs. Maintenance Costs: Prepare for repair expenses and potential downtime. Even new trucks can require unexpected maintenance, and downtime can impact your earnings. Fuel Efficiency: Opt for trucks designed for better fuel efficiency to reduce operating costs. While aesthetic features like long-nose designs may be appealing, they often increase fuel consumption. Perks of Leasing: The Bright Side Leasing isn’t all doom and gloom. Here’s why it might be worth considering: Freedom: Leasing allows you to operate as an independent contractor, giving you control over your schedule, routes, and decisions. Income Potential: Many lease drivers earn more than company drivers, making it a lucrative option for those willing to put in the effort. Access to New Equipment: Leasing often provides access to newer, more reliable trucks equipped with modern safety and efficiency features. Lower Upfront Costs: Compared to purchasing a truck, leasing requires little to no money down, making it accessible for drivers starting out. Why ATS’s Lease Program Stands Out At ATS, we like to keep things simple, transparent, and as hassle-free as possible. Here’s what makes our lease program driver-approved: Well-Maintained Equipment: ATS provides some of the best trucks on the road, featuring modern safety features and excellent fuel efficiency. Transparent Costs: ATS keeps fixed costs competitive and manageable, ensuring drivers have a clear understanding of their expenses. Supportive Environment: From recruiters to leasing managers, ATS staff work to ensure drivers have the resources and support needed to thrive. Flexibility: ATS offers both short-term (one to two years) and long-term leases, with options to purchase at the end of the term. Is Leasing Right for You? Leasing is a great way to level up your career without drowning in debt. But it’s not for everyone. If you’re ready to take on the risks and rewards of being an independent contractor — and you don’t mind the occasional curveball — leasing could be your ticket to financial freedom. Ready to Roll? If the ATS lease program sounds like a good fit, check out our Lease-Purchase options or talk to one of our recruiters. They’ll help you compare programs, answer your questions, and maybe even throw in a few dad jokes. Because at the end of the day, we’re here to help you succeed.

If you’re new to flatbed driving and securing your loads, it can be intimidating to get started. It can be a challenging, demanding job for even the best of us. If you don’t have the right tools to help you succeed, you can either be spending much more time than you need to be securing your loads or you might be doing harm to your body by doing it the wrong way.