Every May, the trucking industry experiences one of the largest safety enforcement events in North America: DOT Blitz Week, officially known as the CVSA International Roadcheck. It is vital for freight agents to know how to prepare for DOT Blitz Week.

During this 72-hour inspection initiative that will occur May 12, 2026 – May 14, 2026, thousands of commercial vehicles are inspected by enforcement agencies across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

While the primary goal of the event is improving highway safety, DOT Blitz Week can also temporarily impact freight capacity, carrier availability, and shipment timelines.

Freight agents who prepare for DOT Blitz Week in advance are far better positioned to manage these disruptions and keep their customers informed.

If you know what to expect and communicate early, the inspection week becomes much easier to navigate.

Understand What Happens During DOT Blitz Week

The first step in preparing for DOT Blitz Week is understanding what the event involves.

Inspectors conduct comprehensive roadside inspections that often include:

• Brake system inspections
• Tire condition checks
• Lighting and reflector compliance
• Cargo securement
• Suspension and steering components
• Driver hours-of-service records
• Driver licensing and medical certifications

The most common inspection performed is the Level I North American Standard Inspection, which evaluates both the vehicle and the driver.

If violations are discovered, trucks or drivers may be placed out of service, meaning they cannot continue operating until the issue is corrected.

Because of these inspections, freight operations can experience short-term delays or reduced capacity.

Communicate Early With Customers

One of the most effective ways freight agents can prepare for DOT Blitz Week is by communicating with customers ahead of time.

Customers may not be aware of how large the inspection event is or how it can impact trucking operations.

Agents should explain that during DOT Week:

• Carrier capacity may tighten
• Transit times could extend slightly
• Spot rates may fluctuate

Providing this information early allows customers to plan shipments more strategically and reduces surprises if delays occur.

Clear communication is often the difference between frustration and understanding.

Encourage Flexible Shipping Schedules

Freight agents who prepare successfully for DOT Blitz Week often encourage customers to adjust shipping schedules when possible.

Moving freight earlier in the week before inspections begin can reduce risk.

In some situations, delaying non-urgent shipments until after the inspection period may also help avoid capacity challenges.

Even small adjustments in shipping schedules can significantly improve the likelihood of on-time deliveries during enforcement periods.

Strengthen Carrier Relationships

Reliable carrier relationships are especially valuable during DOT Blitz Week.

Carriers who maintain well-maintained equipment and strong compliance practices are more likely to remain on the road during inspection week.

Freight agents who work with dependable carriers often experience fewer disruptions because those carriers are confident their equipment will pass inspection.

Strong partnerships also make it easier to secure trucks when the broader market experiences temporary capacity tightening.

Build Extra Transit Time Into Shipments

Another smart preparation strategy is allowing additional transit flexibility.

Inspections can take time, particularly during large enforcement events like DOT Blitz Week.

Even drivers who pass inspections quickly may experience delays at inspection stations or roadside stops.

Adding small buffers into transit timelines helps protect delivery commitments and prevents last-minute stress if inspections occur.

Monitor Freight Market Conditions

Experienced freight agents also watch freight market trends closely leading up to DOT Blitz Week.

Reduced capacity often pushes spot market rates upward during inspection week.

Understanding how the market typically behaves during DOT Week allows agents to price freight accurately and manage customer expectations.

Agents who stay aware of market conditions can react quickly if rates begin to shift.

Why Brokerage Support Matters During DOT Blitz Week

Freight agents do not operate alone.

During industry events like DOT Blitz Week, having strong brokerage support can make a significant difference.

Brokerages that provide operational support, strong carrier relationships, and experienced leadership help agents navigate industry disruptions with confidence.

At Somerset Logistics, our agent-first model focuses on providing agents with the resources and stability they need to manage freight through both routine operations and industry events like CVSA Roadcheck.

Preparation and communication are the keys to keeping freight moving smoothly.

---

DOT Blitz Week is a predictable annual event that temporarily affects truck capacity and freight market conditions.

However, freight agents who prepare early, communicate with customers, and maintain strong carrier partnerships can navigate the inspection week successfully.

In many cases, preparation turns DOT Week into an opportunity to demonstrate professionalism and strengthen customer relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions: Preparing for DOT Blitz Week