7 Top Causes of a DOT Out-of-Service Order

Dealing with a DOT out-of-service order can be frustrating. Vehicle inspections commonly occur, and during these inspections, different authorities like DOT or CHP ensure you comply with certain regulations.

These authorities have the power to fine your company and issue an out-of-service order. Unfortunately, even the most diligent trucking companies can miss some violations, so this guide aims to help by exploring the six top causes of a DOT out-of-service order.

1. Brake System Violations

The Department of Transportation (DOT) takes a truck's brake system very seriously. Brake system violations often lead to a DOT out-of-service order due to safety concerns. Issues like brake leaks and chafed hoses can lead to a vehicle being out of commission.

2. A Non-Compliant AORBD or No ELD

Not having a compliant Automatic On-Board Recording Device (AORBD) or no certified ELD (electronic logging device) can receive a ten-hour out-of-service order. For transporting passengers, this out-of-service order only lasts eight hours. 

After these hours, if you can properly verify the HOS (hours of service), then the driver can travel to their final destination. It's crucial to keep the bill of landing and inspection report.

If you can't produce these documents or your HOS, you must remain out of service.

3. A Driver Drives Somewhere Beside Their Final Destination Following an ELD Violation

Until the driver or company installs an ELD, a driver can only continue to their final destination or to the location where they can install an ELD. This regulation means a driver can't continue with their regular pickups and deliveries.

Further ELD violations mean points against the Safety Measurement System (SMS) score of a motor carrier. Such violations can trigger the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to launch a formal investigation. 

4. Tire Violations

Tire violations represent another major DOT out-of-service cause, including high or low air pressure and inadequate tread depth. You must also rotate your tires frequently, further preventing a violation.

Truckers or trucking companies should also regularly inspect for odd-wear tire patterns. Doing so can reduce the risk of blowouts, keeping roads safer.

5. Trucks Weighing Too Much

Depending on the truck itself and the freight a trucker transports, different weight restrictions exist. You must know these restrictions, as even being a pound over can cause problems.

Truckers should try to load a truck to a hundred pounds underweight since not every loading or weight station features the same calibration systems. An overweight truck means you may have to tow it to another destination before unloading its freight.

6. Cargo Securement Issues

The last top cause of an out-of-service order stems from cargo securement problems. The FMCSA stipulates that any securement system must withstand forces caused by:

• Lateral acceleration
• Forward deceleration
• Backward acceleration

7. Failure to Update Your MCS-150

FMCSA requires the biennial update to your MCS-150 Form (Motor Carrier Identification Report). While some states require you to update your MCS-150 every year, the FMCSA only requires the update every two years, even if nothing has changed. If you fail to update your MCS-150:

• Possible Fines of $1,000 Per Day – Up to $10,000
• Deactivation of your USDOT Number(s)
• Placed Out-of-Service

Avoid Out-of-Service Orders by Working With Our Team

A DOT out-of-service order can adversely affect any business operations. Even an out-of-service order that lasts a day can cause a significant loss of profits and time. Our FMCA Filings team can help ensure you or your business properly complies with all necessary regulations. 

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