Mandatory FMCSA Annual Safety Inspection for Commercial Trailers

Mandatory FMCSA Annual Safety Inspection for Commercial Trailers

Mandatory annual safety check for commercial trailers required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Are You FMCSA Compliant? Mandatory Annual Inspection for Commercial Trailers

If your business operates commercial trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) exceeding 10,000 pounds, you are federally mandated to conduct an annual safety inspection. This requirement, primarily governed by 49 CFR Part 396 (Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), ensures your equipment is safe, roadworthy, and compliant, protecting your drivers, cargo, and the public.

Vehicles Covered by the Mandate

This mandatory annual inspection applies to all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and trailers designed to transport property with a GVWR, Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), or Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,001 pounds or more.

Our inspection services are specifically tailored for your heavy-duty, commercial-use trailers to ensure they meet the strict criteria set by the FMCSA.

What the FMCSA Inspection Covers

Our comprehensive safety check adheres strictly to the minimum periodic inspection standards outlined in Appendix G to Subchapter B of Chapter III, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations. The inspection covers all essential safety components, including:

  • Brake Systems: Checking brake air lines, drums, shoes, pads, and air/hydraulic fluid levels.
  • Coupling Devices: Thorough inspection of fifth wheels, pintle hooks, drawbar/trailer hitches, and safety chains to ensure secure attachment.
  • Lighting Devices: Lights (brake, turn, running) Verification of all required lamps, reflective material, stop lamps, and turn signals.
  • Tires and Wheels: Checking tire inflation, tread depth, and condition for defects, as well as the security of wheel fasteners and rim integrity.
  • Frame and Body: Examination of the frame, chassis, and suspension components for cracks, warping, or damage that could compromise structural integrity.
  • Suspension Systems: Checking springs, torsion bars, equalizers, and other suspension components for damage and proper function.
  • Windshield Wipers (if applicable): Ensuring proper operation.
  • Emergency Equipment: Verification that necessary warning devices (e.g., hazard triangles) are present and accessible.

Certification and Documentation

Upon successful completion of the inspection, we will provide the required documentation to confirm your compliance:

  1. Inspection Report: A detailed report signed and dated by the qualified inspector, including the vehicle identification number (VIN). This record must be maintained by the motor carrier for 12 months.
  2. Inspection Certification: We will affix a certification label (sticker/decal) to the trailer, indicating the month and year of expiration.

Failure to complete this annual inspection or maintain the required documentation can result in out-of-service orders, citations, and substantial fines during roadside inspections or compliance reviews.

Need a Federally Mandated FMCSA Annual Inspection?

Ron's Toy Shop, conveniently located in Manchester, NH, specializes in the mandatory annual safety checks required for commercial trailers with a GVWR over 10,000 pounds. Ensure your fleet maintains full compliance with FMCSA regulations right here in Manchester. Contact us today to schedule your mandatory inspection appointment!

Ensure your fleet is safe and compliant with federal regulations.