Preparing for a DOT Enforcement Visit

Seeing a DOT inspector at your door can be nerve-wracking—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, your team can handle an inspection with confidence and even use it as an opportunity to improve.

Why Inspectors Show Up

Common triggers for inspections include:

• A reported incident involving your shipment.
• A customer or employee complaint.
• Random selection.

Your Inspection-Readiness Plan

1. Designate a response team – Assign specific staff members to interact with inspectors.
2. Centralize your compliance documents – Keep training records, SOPs, shipping papers, interpretations, and permits in one place.
3. Ask the right questions – Understand why the inspector is there and narrow the scope of the visit.

What to Remember During the Visit

• An incident doesn’t always mean you violated regulations.
• DOT inspectors often “follow the breadcrumbs” to find any party that may share responsibility.
• Regulations can be interpreted differently even among inspectors—don’t assume every comment means a violation.

Turning Inspections into Learning Opportunities

Even if no violations are found, inspector observations can lead to stronger best practices. Document all feedback, make changes where necessary, and use each visit to tighten your processes.

Questions about your specific situation? Book a call with our expert today!