To save as PDF: use your browser's PrintSave as PDF or Print to PDF. This checklist prints as 2 pages (A4).

Truck / Heavy Vehicle Pre-Start Checklist

Daily pre-start inspection: complete before first use each day

Company logo

PAGE 1 OF 2

Vehicle Details
Driver Details

Walk-Around Checks

Mark the applicable column for each item: P = Pass  |  F = Fail  |  N/A = Not applicable. Record notes for any F.

# Check Item P F N/A Notes / Action
Tyres & Wheels
1Tyre condition: no cuts, bulges, cord showing
2Tyre pressure: adequate (visual / gauge)
3Tread depth: above minimum legal limit
4Wheel nuts: tight, all present, no cracks
Lights
5Headlights: low and high beam operational
6Tail lights: operational
7Indicators: left/right, front and rear operational
8Brake lights: operational
9Clearance / marker lights: operational
10Work lights / beacon: operational (if fitted)
Mirrors
11Side mirrors: clean, secure, adjusted
12Spot mirrors: clean, secure (if fitted)
Body / Chassis
13No visible damage, leaks or loose components
Engine & Fluids
14Engine oil: level within range
15Coolant: level adequate, no leaks
16Power steering fluid: level adequate
17Brake fluid: level adequate
18DEF / AdBlue: level adequate (if applicable)
19Air filter: serviceable condition
Truck / Heavy Vehicle Pre-Start - Page 2 of 2
Registration
Date
Driver
# Check Item P F N/A Notes / Action
Brakes
20Service brake: firm pedal, effective stopping
21Park brake: holds on incline
22Air pressure: builds to operating range, no leaks
23Brake lines / hoses: no damage, leaks or chafing
Steering & Electrical
24Steering: free play within limits, power steering working
25Battery: secure, alternator charging
26Horn: audible
27Reversing alarm / camera: operational (if fitted)
Cab Safety
28Seatbelt: functional, no fraying
29Windscreen wipers / washers: operational
30Fire extinguisher: present, charged, within service date
31First aid kit: present, stocked
32Warning triangle: present
Load Restraint (if carrying)
33Tie-down points: rated, in good condition
34Chains / straps: available, rated, no damage
35Headboard: secure, no damage
36Load rated: within GVM/GCM limits
Signage & Compliance
37Registration: current
38COR / NHVR compliance documentation
39Dimension and mass placards: legible
40Dangerous goods signage (if applicable)
Coupling (if towing)
41Fifth wheel / turntable / kingpin: secure, locked
42Airlines: connected, no leaks
43Electrical connections: plug secure, lights working
44Safety chains: correct rating, crossed, secure
Overall Result
PASS: vehicle fit for use ACTION REQUIRED: see defects FAIL: do not drive

Defects & Action Required  (list any item marked F: reference item # from checklist)

Item # Defect Description Action Taken / Reported to Rectified by / Date

Declaration

I declare that I have completed this pre-start inspection of the above truck / heavy vehicle. I have reported any defects and will not drive the vehicle if any defect affects its safety or roadworthiness until it has been rectified. I confirm my driver licence is current and valid for this class of vehicle.

Driver Sign-off
Signature
Print name
Date & time
Supervisor Acknowledgement
Signature
Print name
Date