Introducing technology to manage the arrival and departure of loads carried by vehicles, along with their weight data, is known as weighbridge automation.
How weighbridge automation works
Weighbridge automation works by replacing humans with electronic hardware and software when managing the use of ground-mounted scales. Automation aims to improve efficiency and accuracy by eliminating human data entry, reducing the need for paper documentation, and relying more on cameras and sensors to manage the flow of traffic across weighbridges.
Using weighbridge software in automation enables weight data from digital scales to be captured and calculated automatically for the weighbridge ticket, then digitally shared in real-time with authorised users and third parties. Sensors and cameras can be used to track and guide a truck’s position, while barcode scanning can match the vehicle and its recorded weight.
Benefits of weighbridge automation
The costs of automation – such as licensing the software, investing in hardware, and training staff – tend to be outweighed by longer term savings due to lower headcount, reductions in human error, and overall operational efficiency gains. Automation enhances monitoring and reporting by integrating weight data with CTRM software, accountancy packages, and third party digital systems such as those used by shipping lines. Automation can also improve data security by introducing role-based access and configuration.
Checks and certification
Like traditional weighbridge operations, ‘trade approved’ automated weighbridges need regular checks and an up-to-date weighbridge calibration certificate to record and certify their level of accuracy. This helps guard against issues such as hysteresis.
