Transportation Inspector

Working Schedule

• Transportation Inspectors typically work full-time with possible night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Typical Duties

• Review documents to determine cargo transportation capabilities
• Inspect cargo handling devices and storage facilities
• Oversee loading and bracing of freight into containers and vehicles to ensure compliance with applicable regulations
• Inspect shipments to verify safe, secure blocking and bracing and proper handling of fragile, hazardous, and perishable goods
• Notify workers of any special handling requirements
• Monitor temperatures and humidity in shipping and storage areas, when applicable for perishable or other temperature-controlled goods
• Mark vehicles with suitable hazardous materials warning signs
• Measure loads to ensure they can fit through bridges or tunnels along the route
• Measure vessel depths and issue compliance certificates
• Calculate vessel stability factors
• Visually inspect cargo for damage upon arrival or discharge
• Prepare and submit inspection reports
• Record details about freight conditions and observed problems
• Recommend corrective actions for any violations found during inspections

Additional Responsibilities

• Communicate effectively with team members
• Stay up-to-date with industry regulations and best practices
• Ensure all equipment used for inspections is properly maintained and calibrated

Soft Skills

• Analytical
• Attention to detail
• Communication
• Coordination
• Detail-oriented
• Diligence
• Evaluation skills
• Independence
• Integrity
• Interpersonal skills
• Observant
• Organizational skills
• Problem-solving
• Realistic
• Time management

Technical Skills

• Ability to inspect vehicles, cargo, cargo blocking and bracing, labeling, and manifest documentation
• Basic understanding of vehicle systems (i.e., engines, brakes, suspension systems, and electrical components)
• Familiarity with electronic reporting systems/Fleet Management Systems
• Able to address minor issues such as spotting leaks, loose bolts, or worn tires
• Proficiency with diagnostic tools (OBD-II scanners, multimeters, and brake testers)
• Knowledge of regulations by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
  Administration, Department of Transportation, and other agencies
• Understanding of cargo handling and transport techniques (i.e., proper securing, weight distribution, and hazardous materials management)

• Federal and state government agencies
• Transportation and warehousing companies
• Rail transportation companies
• Shipping companies
• Freight and logistics companies

Due to the nature of their work, many Transportation Inspectors are exposed to all sorts of outdoor conditions. As a result, they’ve got to be ready to face the elements, whether it’s extreme heat, freezing cold, or anything in between. For example, if they work on loading docks or at ports and harbors, they must be cautious of icy surfaces during the winter.

Whatever the conditions, inspectors don’t have the luxury of taking shortcuts. They’ve got to stay vigilant to ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards. Alas, they must also deal with cargo workers who can get frustrated or might want to rush things along. That’s why inspectors have to be able to hold their ground while doing their best to keep situations courteous and professional. 

The transportation industry is increasingly leveraging technology to improve safety and efficiency. For instance, inspectors now rely on electronic documentation systems to streamline the recording and tracking of inspection results.

The supply chain itself is evolving to meet growing demands for real-time data, more agility, better forecasting, increased automation, and enhanced transparency.

Sustainability is also a priority. Inspectors evaluate vehicles for fuel efficiency and emissions compliance and ensure cargo handling minimizes environmental harm. They also need to know how to inspect electric vehicles that contain combustible lithium-ion batteries. 

Transportation Inspectors are reliable and independent. They might have enjoyed activities that required attention to detail, problem-solving, and working with their hands. They likely had an interest in how things worked “behind the scenes,” which is great for a career related to logistics!