October 11, 2023
Investing in an industrial portable vehicle scale is not a cheap, straightforward business; there are numerous costs and operational requirements involved.
This makes it essential to take the time to analyze various considerations for portable truck scales before selecting the right one for your business.
Weight monitoring is essential in shipping and transportation operations, and incorporating a portable scale into your processes can offer significant benefits and even result in substantial cost savings by avoiding hefty fines and fees.
When choosing an appropriate truck weighing scale, you need to consider various factors, including legal compliance, location, usage, data collection methods, durability, budget, and emerging technologies.
In this article, we will delve into each of these aspects to help you make an informed choice.
Are Portable Scales Accurate? Legal-for-Trade Use & Compliance
Most portable truck scales are not legal-for-trade and are primarily used for check weighing to prevent overloading, avoid traffic fines, and address other operational needs.
However, if your application involves the commercial sale of products by weight, it typically falls under legal-for-trade requirements.
In such cases, a full-length weighbridge might be necessary, and some of these are available as portable units, although regulations can impose restrictions on their use.
It’s crucial to consult your local jurisdiction to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Location & Space: Where is the best place for a truck axle scale?
Portable truck scales come in various sizes and utilization options, ranging from hand-portable solutions to larger axle pad scales.
Hand-portable options are preferable when space is limited, while larger portable truck axle scales can be installed above or in-ground when ample space is available.
The choice of location can also affect scale accuracy and efficiency.
The Necessity for a Flat Area
For accurate measurements, it’s important to set up portable truck scales on a flat and level surface. While some scales can compensate for minor variations in terrain, a flat area ensures consistent and precise results.
Consider the topography of your job site or location and whether to understand if any site preparation is needed to achieve the required level.
Vehicle Maneuverability
Portable truck scales offer the advantage of flexibility in terms of vehicle maneuverability.
Unlike fixed scales that require vehicles to follow a specific path, portable scales can be set up in various configurations, allowing for easier entry and exit.
This flexibility is particularly beneficial in tight spaces or challenging terrains where traditional scales may not be practical.
Weather
Hand-portable wheel scales are cost-effective and suitable for occasional and dry weather use.
On the other hand, larger axle pad scales are better suited for continuous use and can withstand various weather conditions.
Each solution has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to align your choice with your operational requirements.
Is This a Temporary Job Site or a Permanent Installation?
One crucial factor to consider is whether your application requires a temporary setup or a permanent installation.
Portable truck scales are versatile and well-suited for temporary job sites where frequent relocation is necessary. However, for permanent installations, you may also explore fixed truck scales.
Understanding your project’s duration and mobility requirements will help determine the most suitable scale solution for your business.
Calibration and Accuracy
Calibration is a critical aspect of using portable truck scales. Regular calibration ensures that your scales provide accurate weight measurements.
Neglecting calibration can lead to inaccuracies that impact operations and potentially result in financial losses due to overloading or underloading.
It’s essential to establish a calibration schedule and adhere to it to maintain the reliability of your scale system.
Static vs. Dynamic: How Do Portable Truck Scales Work?
Portable truck scales offer various data collection capabilities depending on their features, ranging from basic weight readouts to comprehensive truck-in and truck-out software for data management.
When using portable truck scales, the vehicle must be stationary as each axle or axle group is weighed, ensuring accuracy within less than 1% error.
Additional features, such as automated axle weighing, can be incorporated. Some portable vehicle scales operate with a slow-speed weigh-in-motion system, collecting weight data as the truck is driven at speeds of up to 3 mph.
However, it’s essential to note that measurement error increases by 3-5% of the gross vehicle weight at a 95% confidence level when using slow-speed weigh-in-motion scales. These slow-speed systems are available in both portable wheel scales and fixed in-ground options.
Durability & Environmental Protection
Most portable truck scales inherently offer a certain level of durability due to their design. However, it’s crucial to assess whether your scale requires additional environmental protection.
Evaluating factors such as terrain, climate, and location will help determine the ideal weighing solution capable of withstanding challenging conditions.
The integration of advanced coatings and materials can significantly enhance the durability of these scales, making them suitable for even the harshest environments.
Here at Massload Technologies, our focus is on crafting robust and rugged equipment that can reliably support heavy cargo and endure for many years to come.
Budget
Portable truck scales are a cost-effective solution compared to non-portable options. However, budget considerations still play a role when selecting the right portable device.
Hand-portable battery-powered options are cost-effective and easy to deploy.
In contrast, larger portable axle pad scales offer enhanced accuracy while remaining cost-effective.
Additionally, specialized portable vehicle scales tailored to specific industries may provide distinct characteristics and advantages.
The choice ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your weighing task.
If you’re interested in exploring personalized case studies and discovering how our “made in Canada” portable truck scales can benefit your business, please don’t hesitate to send us a message.
Considering portable truck axle scale requires a thoughtful assessment of various factors, ranging from the nature of your job site to the level of precision needed and budget considerations.
These scales offer immense benefits, including accurate weight measurements, enhanced vehicle maneuverability, and flexibility in setup.
Whether your operation is in mining, agriculture, or any industry that relies on transportation, understanding these considerations will empower you to make an informed choice.
Remember, the right portable truck scale can streamline your operations, improve efficiency, and contribute to the overall success of your business.
Find the Portable Truck Axle Scales You Need at Massload Technologies
If you’re unsure which portable truck scale suits your application best, Massload Technologies, a leader in the weighing industry since 1981, can provide the technical expertise and product knowledge to help you find the perfect solution for your industry.
Contact us for more information on portable truck scales and customized options for on-the-go weighing. If you have a specific application in mind, don’t hesitate to request a quote for a tailored solution that aligns with your unique requirements.
