The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) International Roadcheck will take place May 12-14, 2026 with a focus on ELDS (Electronic Logging Device) and cargo securement.
Each year, the CVSA selects two areas of special emphasis for Roadcheck inspectors, a driver violation category and a vehicle violation category.
This year, Roadcheck’s driver violation category will be ELD tampering/falsification. The vehicle violation category will be cargo securement.
International Roadcheck is a high-visibility, high-volume commercial motor vehicle inspection and regulatory compliance enforcement that takes place in Canada, Mexico and the U.S.
During the 72-hour blitz, law enforcement personnel will inspect commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, temporary sites and mobile patrols to verify compliance.
ELDs
According to the CVSA, inaccurate ELD entries may result from a driver’s lack of understanding of the federal regulations and exemptions. However, in some cases, inaccurate entries are purposefully used to conceal hours-of-service violations, and some records are manipulated to conceal driving time (with no indication the record was edited as required by federal regulations).
Last year, falsification of record of duty status was the second most-cited violation out of all driver violations, at 58,382 violations. And five out of the top 10 driver violations were related to hours of service or ELDs.
Load Securement
CVSA warns that not securing loads properly can be dangerous. Unsecured items can fall off trucks, causing accidents and road hazards. Here are some simple tips for securing cargo safely:
- Cargo on flatbed trailers should be positioned against a front-end structure or use additional tie-downs to prevent forward movement.
- Properly secure all dunnage and equipment, such as tarps, blocks, chains or other tie-downs, spare tires, brooms, forklifts, pallet jacks, winches, ratchets, etc.
- Inspect tie-downs for wear and damage. CVSA’s North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria includes tie- down defect tables for chain, wire rope, cordage, synthetic webbing, steel strapping, fittings or attachments, and anchor points.
Read more on the 2026 Roadcheck Focus Areas.
What Else to Expect During a Level 1 Inspection
While the focus during Roadcheck 2026 will be on ELDS and load securement, inspectors will still run through all checks of a level 1 inspections. Here’s what to expect.
- Vehicle safety – Inspectors will ensure the vehicle’s brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, driver’s seat, fuel and exhaust systems, frames, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs and windshield wipers are compliant with regulations. Inspections of motorcoaches, passenger vans and other passenger-carrying vehicles also include emergency exits, seating, and electrical cables and systems in the engine and battery compartments.
- Driver safety – Inspectors will check the driver’s operating credentials, hours-of-service documentation, status in the drug and alcohol clearinghouse, seat belt usage, and for alcohol and/or drug impairment.
Get Ready With More Tips
- Ensure your vehicle is up-to-date on all maintenance and repairs, especially tires
- Drivers should have accurate and complete records of duty status and ensure ELDs are functioning correctly
- Documents: have all necessary documentation readily available, including permits, registrations, and insurance papers
- Conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection before going out on the road, including tire safety and check for proper inflation, tread depth, and any signs of damage
- Verify that exterior components like windows, side mirrors, steps, and doors are in good working order