Navigating DOT Week with confidence
Each year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) conducts a crucial safety initiative known as DOT Week. Over several days, inspectors check many trucks and drivers to ensure they’re safe for the road. Between the possibility of inspection and out-of-service violations, some drivers will choose to sit this time out.
While this is an annual event, understanding the details of DOT Week can help you plan effectively for possible supply chain disruptions.
What to know about DOT Week 2024
The CVSA International Roadcheck, also known as DOT Week or DOT Blitz Week, is a 72-hour event where inspectors across North America (Canada, Mexico and the U.S.) conduct detailed inspections of trucks, trailers and drivers.
This initiative is a cornerstone of CVSA's work to make roads safer and ensure rules are being followed.
When is it?
The 2024 DOT Week inspections will begin the morning of Tuesday, May 14, and end the evening of Thursday, May 16.
Why is it important?
DOT Week is the largest targeted enforcement program for commercial motor vehicles worldwide. Over three days, inspectors will perform standard Level 1 DOT checks on an average of 15 trucks per minute across North America.
In 2024, they’ll focus on tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance protection in addition to the usual inspection.
How will it impact shippers?
Stops during the DOT blitz typically take drivers off the road for a minimum of 45-60 minutes, even if there are no issues. While the stops themselves likely won’t impact shipments, any violations could cause delays.
In 2023, the CVSA found that 19% of vehicles and 5.5% of drivers had out-of-service violations during the International Roadcheck. This led to over 14,500 trucks and drivers being taken off the road until the violations were addressed.
Shipments can also be impacted by some drivers taking vacation time during DOT Week. By taking off, drivers can cause a dip in available capacity, potentially making it more difficult to find a truck for your load. Prices may also rise.
Avoiding disruptions during the DOT inspection blitz
While the core advice for navigating DOT Week remains similar year-to-year, here's how you can take a proactive approach to minimize disruptions in 2024:
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Plan around the dates. Knowing that DOT inspections happen May 14-16, 2024, allows for strategic shipment scheduling. Work with your logistics partner to plan when your shipments should hit the road, either before or after the inspection period. This will help avoid delays or capacity issues.
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Embrace flexibility. If you’re shipping on the spot market, adjusting pickup and delivery dates and times can improve your ability to secure capacity at competitive rates.
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Explore multimodal shipping. Consider using a mix of transportation modes, such as rail or air, to improve delivery times and reduce inspection delays. Your logistics provider can help you determine which method is best.
Partner with ArcBest for a smooth DOT Week
The reduced capacity and delays surrounding the inspection blitz can introduce temporary hurdles, but ArcBest can help you avoid those challenges. With our extensive experience, established carrier network and proactive notifications, we can work together to develop a plan that minimizes disruptions and keeps your costs down.
