How Often Do Truck Drivers Check Their Cargo Loads?

When a driver is behind the wheel of a commercial truck, they have many responsibilities, including securing the cargo. Securing cargo is a constant concern for many operators on the road. 

How often do they check? While the federal government sets minimum standards, drivers will still make these inspections throughout the course of their trip. By not checking their cargo, drivers put everyone at risk. Many times, these actions can lead to a serious truck accident on Reno’s highways.  

Here is how often truck drivers should check their cargo loads and why those checks matter. 

Federal Requirements 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) specifies the minimum cargo securement inspection standards across the country. You can find them in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) §392.9.

These regulations apply to most commercial vehicles operating in interstate commerce. According to the rules, there are three required inspection points: 

Before the Start of the Trip   

Before moving the truck, the driver must inspect the cargo and the securement systems. This includes: 

• Tie-downs 

• Straps 

• Chains 

• Anchor points 

• Tarps or covers 

If the load is not properly secured or any securement equipment is damaged or missing, the trip cannot begin legally.   

Within the First 50 Miles   

After the vehicle gets underway, drivers must stop and re-check the load within the first 50 miles. Why? During this time, loads can shift, straps can settle, and securement devices may loosen as the truck starts moving. This early re-check allows the driver to catch and fix problems before they become hazards. 

Every 150 Miles/Every 3 Hours (Whichever Comes First)   

Once the truck is moving, the load still needs to be re-inspected on a regular schedule. The FMCSA mandates an inspection every 150 miles or every three hours of driving, whichever comes first. This requirement makes sure that long-haul drivers are vigilant about the security of their cargo. 

Additional Times to Inspect 

While these are three federally required points, some drivers will conduct inspections throughout the trip. These may include: 

At Every Fuel Stop   

Many drivers may inspect cargo during fuel stops. Since the truck has already stopped, this is a good opportunity to walk around the vehicle and check the straps and chains. Once again, they are looking for any signs of shifting, sagging, or broken equipment. 

After Major Road Events   

For drivers who have come through steep mountain grades, taken sharp turns, crossed rough terrain, or braked hard to avoid a collision, they will pull over and inspect the load. These high-stress conditions can cause load movement, even if the initial securement was done correctly. 

When Weather Conditions Change  

Rain, snow, ice, and wind can impact how cargo shifts during transport. Wet or frozen straps can slip or lose tension. Along with that, wind gusts can catch tarps or unevenly distributed loads.  

After Long Periods of Inactivity   

If a truck sits idle for several hours, such as during an overnight rest break, drivers should check the load before getting back on the road. Temperature changes can affect strap tension. Even vibrations from starting and stopping the vehicle may alter load positioning. 

Before Entering High-Risk Areas   

Some drivers add a load check before entering urban traffic zones, mountain passes, or areas with high wind advisories. With that, they can make sure the cargo is as secure as possible before dealing with challenging driving conditions. 

Before Border Crossings, Weigh Stations, or Inspections   

Many drivers will double-check their loads before rolling into a weigh station or border inspection point. A quick adjustment can prevent delays, citations, or forced offloading. 

After Unloading a Partial Load   

In situations where the driver is making multiple deliveries and removing part of the cargo en route, the securement for the remaining freight must be re-evaluated and adjusted. The original tie-down configuration may no longer be safe once the load’s balance changes. 

What Are Drivers Checking During an Inspection? 

An inspection is not a quick glance. A driver will take time to look at all the vehicle’s security elements.  

They are checking for: 

• Loose or frayed straps 

• Missing or damaged tie-downs 

• Shifting or leaning cargo 

• Compromised tarps or coverings 

• Securement points pulling or showing stress 

• Signs of load movement from outside the trailer 

If there are any signs of trouble, the truck should not continue until the problem has been resolved.  

Consequences of Skipping Inspections 

Skipping or overlooking these inspections can come with serious consequences. Drivers may face: 

• Fines or citations during roadside inspections 

• Out-of-service orders requiring immediate corrections 

• Civil liability if an accident occurs due to load issues 

• Potential job loss or a damaged safety record 

For carriers, non-compliance can lead to regulatory penalties, lawsuits, and increased insurance premiums. At the end of the day, the responsibility to secure the cargo falls on the operator of the truck. 

When drivers do not make these inspections, it can lead to issues with the cargo. Unbalanced cargo can cause trucks to become unstable and cause an accident. Not checking cargo is negligent behavior, and you could be entitled to compensation. 

If you have been in the unfortunate position of being involved in an accident with a truck, you know the injuries, damages, and losses are astronomical.  

At the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp, we’ll stand by you during these times.