Weighbridges are engineered explicitly to weigh heavy-duty vehicles and their loads and play a vital role across mining, agriculture, and other sectors. With the various types of weighbridges on the market, this guide will examine various systems and explore why mobile weighbridge usage has recently gained traction within the logistics industry.

Above-ground weighbridges

Above-ground weighbridges sit on the surface and are typically constructed using a steel frame with ramps providing vehicle access to drive onto the scale for weighing. Due to minimal civil engineering requirements, these types are the most affordable and accessible systems to deploy. Above-ground systems are preferable when:
  • Budget is a key deciding factor
  • The location has sufficient space to incorporate entry/exit ramps
  • Easy access underneath for maintenance is ideal

Thanks to its over-surface construction, an above-ground weighbridge allows straightforward maintenance. However, the system requires more space to facilitate truck access ramps and allow safe maneuvering.

In-ground and pit weighbridge systems

In-ground and pit weighbridge systems are built into the surface rather than sitting above it. Key benefits of in-ground scales include:
  • Suitability for space-constrained locations, as no ramps are necessary
  • Options for discreet installations that blend with the surroundings
  • Accessibility for weighing trucks from multiple directions

Installing in-ground and pit systems requires extensive excavation and civil engineering work to integrate the system into the site, making it more complex and costly than above-ground options. However, an in-ground system may justify the additional expense of a permanent weighbridge installation where space limitations are crucial.

The Benefits of a Mobile Weighbridge System

A mobile weighbridge offers portability and flexibility for weighing loads across diverse locations and can easily be moved around sites or between regional areas. Key advantages include:
  • Weighing vehicles in remote areas without permanent infrastructure
  • Supporting projects with changing load-out points
  • Reducing transport costs of ferrying trucks to offsite weighing terminals

A mobile weighbridge system allows entire haul fleets to be weighed on-site. This system offers portability, which is much needed in logistics, justifying the higher initial purchase costs.

Key factors when selecting a weighbridge system
With various options to suit different operational requirements, key considerations are:

Legislative Compliance

Review regional regulations governing vehicle weight limits for road protection. An accurate, well-calibrated weighbridge helps organizations remain compliant.

Data Connectivity

Many modern weighing systems integrate networking capabilities for data transmission. Remote access enables real-time monitoring of loads without physically visiting the weighbridge.

Traffic Volume

The number of vehicles passing over the scales daily determines usage intensity. More robust construction standards suit applications with consistent heavy loads over 20+ years.

Calibration Requirements

Scheduled calibration maintains a scale’s accuracy over ongoing use. Due to its less robust construction, a mobile weighbridge may require more frequent verifications than permanent in-ground scales.

Selecting the appropriate scale for your operation involves balancing budget and performance requirements. While traditional models work for fixed terminals, a mobile weighbridge facilitates portable weighing for goods across the site with no installation cost.