Adapt the items to each vehicle class, then run it digitally so checks are timestamped and failures escalate automatically. The one rule that matters: a failed item must stop the vehicle or raise a defect, every time, or the checklist is theatre.
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IntelliTrac / Fleet templatesVehicle pre-start checklist
Before you approach
- Licence current for this vehicle class, and you are fit to drive (rested, unimpaired).
- Load plan known: what is being carried, and is it within this vehicle's limits?
Walk-around
- Tyres: inflation looks right, tread legal, no visible damage; wheel nuts present (indicators aligned if fitted).
- Lights and indicators: headlights, brake lights, indicators, clearance lights all work.
- Leaks: no fresh oil, coolant or fuel on the ground.
- Body and glass: mirrors intact and adjusted, windscreen undamaged in the driver's view, doors and panels secure.
- Load and restraint: load secured to the restraint standard, gates and curtains fastened, nothing loose on trays.
- Couplings (if towing): coupled, pinned and safety chains attached; trailer lights connected and working.
In the cab
- Brakes: pedal feel firm; park brake holds. Air brakes: pressure builds and holds, low-pressure warning works.
- Steering: no excessive free play.
- Seatbelt: latches and retracts.
- Horn, wipers and washers work.
- Warning lights: no active faults after start.
- Emergency kit present where required (extinguisher, triangles, first aid).
Log and act
- Log the completed check with the time and odometer reading.
- Any failed item: do not drive if it is safety-critical; otherwise report the defect before departure.
- Defects reported here must appear in the maintenance system, visible until repaired.
Driver: [name] · Vehicle: [rego] · Odometer: [km] · Date and time: [....]
A starting point, not legal advice. Review against your own agreements and state rules.