3 Ways To Stay Compliant The Rest Of 2025
With enforcement on the rise, staying compliant has never been more critical.
In 2024, the number of safety audits conducted by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and various state enforcement agencies increased by 11% compared to 2023.
If your compliance isn’t in order, a safety audit can seriously impact your ability to stay on the road.
When you're busy hauling loads and managing the day to day operations, compliance can feel like just another burden. But it’s one you can’t afford to overlook.
Based on our team’s real-world experience and industry insight, we’ve put together a list of the top 3 things carriers can do to stay compliant through the rest of 2025.
- Have Your Required Files Organized and Up to Date.
Carriers need a reliable system to keep essential documents—like ELD records, CDLs, maintenance logs, and drug testing files—organized and current. Outdated or missing files can lead to fines, delays, and DOT compliance issues.
Pro tip: If you're still shoving papers in your glove box or digging through a file drawer, it’s time for an upgrade. The Aladdin Carrier File Truck Book keeps everything together, secure, and ready for inspection anytime. Click HERE to get one today!
- Have the ‘Big 3’ Pre-Employment Requirements Checked Before You Hire a New Driver:
Before adding a new driver to your team, make sure they complete the following pre-employment requirements:
- Pre-employment MVR
- Pre-employment drug and alcohol test
- Pre-employment clearinghouse query
These tests will also help catch any compliance issues or risks with your new driver early—such as prior violations, substance use, or disqualifications. Identifying these risks upfront gives you the chance to address them before they lead to fines, penalties, or operational disruptions down the line.
- Perform Quality Pre-Trip Inspections
Carriers can be subject to roadside inspections for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to stay prepared by performing thorough pre-trip inspections. A solid routine, a reliable checklist, and taking the time to do it right can go a long way in helping you avoid fines, prevent accidents, and keeping yourself safe on the road.
For a step-by-step guide on how to perform a proper pre-trip inspection, check out our blog - A Carrier’s Guide to Properly Conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection – here!
Staying Compliant Beyond 2025
Compliance can feel like a maze, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right policies, clear processes, and a reliable support partner by your side, staying compliant becomes second nature.
