A looming inspection from the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) can be a stressful burden for any commercial truck service. Thankfully, there are some easy steps you can take to prepare for the inspection, helping you approach it with confidence and a calm attitude. Here’s what you need to know about passing an FMCSA inspection.

How to Approach an FMCSA Inspection

1. Stay Up-to-Date With Maintenance Issues

A large part of passing the FMCSA inspection is making sure your truck service fleet is in good working order and that all maintenance problems have been addressed. Instead of tackling every mechanical issue a few days before the inspection, fixing them on a frequent basis will help you stay ahead of the curve. Regularly checking on elements, such as tires, electrical systems, lighting, exhaust systems, and safety belts, will ensure your fleet is prepared to be looked at.

2. Maintain Clean Trucks, Inside & Out

Keeping the cab of a truck tidy and neat is a great way to ensure any documents needed for the inspection are organized and easily within reach. Every driver should know where items are located, such as a medical examiner’s certificate, record of duty status, annual inspection documentation, and permit credentials. 

3. Have a Good Attitude

Approaching an unexpected inspection with a sour attitude can start things off poorly. Instead, being open and honest with the inspector can go a long way in coming out of it with a pass. If there has been an issue, such as a broken light, that was only recently noticed, explaining it upfront can create an understanding response. Overall, maintaining a courteous attitude during the entire inspection is recommended.

It’s important to be ready to pass an FMCSA inspection at any time. If you need repairs or maintenance on your fleet, DeCarolis Truck Rental, the premier truck service in Rochester, NY, can help. For nearly 80 years, the company has provided easy access to a wide range of truck rentals and leases. For more information on their leases, call their Colfax Street location at (585) 254-1169 or their Silvarole location at (585) 427-2670. Visit the truck service online today to learn about their repair and maintenance work.