Yard Managers Extreme Weather Readiness Checklist

1. Plan

Determine if your yard has a clear, proactive plan for the following weather threats.

We've identified the most likely weather risks for our location (flooding, snow, heat, wind, etc.).

We've documented a severe weather action plan with specific triggers and response steps.

We've assigned roles and responsibilities for each type of weather event.

We regularly review and update our plan before each storm season.

2. Asset inventory

Determine if you have accurate visibility of yard assets and critical equipment before, during, and after a storm.

We use a yard management system (YMS) or other tools to maintain real-time asset visibility.

We can quickly identify and prioritize critical or time-sensitive loads.

We've tested backup processes for check-in/check-out in case connectivity is lost.

We use YMS reporting to analyze the impact of weather on operations.

3. Asset protection

Determine your ability to secure and protect assets and infrastructure during severe weather.

We inspect fencing, gates, and dock doors before each storm season.

We've designated safe zones for portable equipment and trailers.

We keep snow, ice, and flood control equipment maintained and accessible.

We've identified potential flood-prone or low-lying areas within the yard.

4. Communication

Determine if you can maintain reliable communication before, during, and after weather events.

We've defined who communicates updates to staff, carriers, and customers.

We've enabled automated alerts or notifications through our YMS or other systems.

We have backup communication methods if power or the internet goes down.

We provide consistent updates during recovery to coordinate safely and efficiently.

5. Connectivity

Determine if you can keep critical systems and operations running during weather events.

We test backup generators regularly and verify sufficient fuel supply.

We've confirmed that our servers and YMS data have cloud-based redundancy.

We've trained staff in manual gate and check-in procedures.

We can restore YMS and system access quickly if connectivity is lost.

6. Safety & training

Determine if you can keep our team informed, confident, and ready to respond safely.

We conduct weather-related drills and scenario-based exercises at least annually.

We've clearly posted evacuation routes and first-aid information in visible areas.

Our team knows how to secure assets and yard areas quickly before a storm.

We review lessons learned from past events and update procedures accordingly.

7. Continuous improvement

Determine how to strengthen resilience through data and post-event insights.

We use YMS or other analytics tools to track downtime, delays, and recovery time.

We conduct a post-event review to document operational impacts and lessons learned.

We update our severe weather action plan based on findings from each review.

We track progress toward ongoing improvement goals.

Yard Manager's Extreme Weather Readiness Checklist

Extreme Weather Readiness Checklist

1. Plan

2. Asset inventory

3. Asset protection

4. Communication

5. Connectivity

6. Safety & training

7. Continuous improvement

Scoring summary

Tips to Strengthen Your Strategy

Get Your Yard Ready with YardView

Frequently Asked Questions About the Checklist