Set Your Brakes Right at Truck Stops and Docks
By Ron Baker — 2.5 Million Safe Miles | No Accidents | No Tickets
When you’re pulling into a truck stop or backing into a dock, you’re not off duty until your brakes are set — and set right. Every seasoned driver knows: how you secure your truck when you stop is just as important as how you drive it.
Whether you’re at a fuel island, rest stop, shipper, or receiver, improper brake-setting or lazy habits can cost you — big. From trailer theft to dropped loads or DOT citations, the risk is real. Here’s how to lock it down like a pro.
🛑 The Correct Brake Setting Order
Most drivers know how to pull knobs. But few know why the order matters.
✅ Step 1: Pull the Trailer Brakes (Red Knob)
This immediately locks the trailer wheels and prevents it from moving independently.
✅ Step 2: Gently Tug Forward
Ease forward just a couple of inches. This puts tension on the fifth wheel jaws, locking the kingpin into place. It also makes it nearly impossible for someone to pull the fifth wheel handle.
✅ Step 3: Set the Tractor Brakes (Yellow Knob)
Once the trailer is tension-locked, you can now safely apply the tractor brakes.
🛻 Why It’s Critical at Truck Stops
Truck stops are public spaces. Anyone walking between parked trucks can tamper with your equipment — and they do. Pulling a fifth wheel release is one of the oldest “pranks” out there.
If your fifth wheel isn’t under tension, it can be pulled by hand. That means when you leave in the morning, your trailer could drop in the parking lot before you make it to the fuel pumps. Even worse? If you’re rolling and it drops mid-turn.
A simple forward tug before setting your tractor brakes helps lock it all in. It’s a move that costs you nothing and could save you your CDL.
🏗️ Why It’s Non-Negotiable at Shippers and Receivers
When you’re being loaded or unloaded, vibrations and movement can loosen components, including your coupling. Even if you did a solid pre-trip, stress from dock activity can cause shifts.
Before stepping away from your cab:
Confirm trailer brakes are set
Make sure the fifth wheel is fully locked
Avoid relying on yard jockeys or dock workers to “secure” your rig
If you’re told to stay connected at the dock, secure your setup yourself. Don’t assume anything — you’re the one responsible.
🚫 Dropping a Trailer? Set It for the Next Driver
Dropping a trailer? Respect the next guy in the seat.
Here’s how to drop it right:
Lower the landing gear until it’s about ½ inch off the pavement (if empty)
Dump your tractor’s air bags so the trailer settles cleanly on its legs
Set the trailer brakes
Confirm it’s stable and not floating high or leaning
Too many drivers leave trailers too tall, making it difficult for the next driver to back under without jumping the kingpin — a recipe for serious damage.
A sloppy drop is a sign of a lazy driver. Don’t be that driver.
🚨 Final Word from Ron
I’ve driven over 2.5 million miles without a single accident or ticket — and I didn’t get there by skipping the small stuff.
Setting your brakes in the right order, checking your fifth wheel, dumping air when needed — these aren’t just habits, they’re safeguards. When you make these moves part of your routine, you protect yourself, your truck, your load, and your license.
Drive smart. Park smarter. Lock it down.
