How do you weigh a lorry?

The Importance of Weighing Lorries

Weighing lorries is a critical practice that goes beyond simple measurements; it plays a pivotal role in ensuring road safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Overweight lorries can have severe consequences, including increased wear and tear on infrastructure, elevated accident risks, and potential harm to the environment. To address these challenges, precise weighing becomes imperative, enabling businesses to adhere to weight regulations and contribute to overall road safety.

How do you weigh a lorry? Learn the difference between weigh pads and weighbridges.

Axle Weigh Pads vs. Weighbridges

Axle Weigh Pads

Axle weigh pads offer a portable and flexible solution for weighing lorries. These pads, equipped with sensors, are placed beneath the vehicle’s wheels, providing accurate weight readings for each axle as well as the total weight of the lorry. Weigh pads are ideal for businesses requiring mobility and versatility in weighing locations. The cost of weigh pads typically ranges from £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the brand, features, and weight capacity. [Learn how to set up an axle weigh pad system here]

Weighbridges

Weighbridges, or truck scales, are stationary platforms designed to weigh entire lorries at once. These structures are commonly found at distribution centres, manufacturing plants, and logistics hubs. Weighbridges provide high accuracy and durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty, high-volume operations. The cost of weighbridges varies significantly, ranging from £10,000 to £50,000 or more, depending on size, capacity, and additional features.

Weighing Goods Before Loading

In addition to weighing lorries, businesses can enhance efficiency by weighing goods before they are loaded. This proactive approach ensures that lorries are within legal weight limits, minimising the risk of fines and penalties during transport.

  • Pallet Truck Scales: Pallet truck scales are designed to weigh goods directly on the pallet. They provide a convenient solution for businesses handling palletised loads, allowing for accurate weight measurements during the loading process.
  • Platform Scales: Platform scales offer a versatile option for weighing various types of goods. With a flat, sturdy surface, these scales accommodate different shapes and sizes, providing accurate readings for goods placed directly on the platform.
  • Weigh Beams/U-Frame Scales: Weigh beams, also known as U-Frame scales, are suitable for weighing oversized or irregularly shaped items. These scales consist of two separate beams placed under the object, providing precise weight measurements.

Conclusion

The importance of weighing lorries cannot be overstated. It ensures compliance, promotes road safety, and contributes to operational efficiency. Whether opting for the flexibility of weigh pads or the robustness of weighbridges, businesses have solutions at their disposal to meet specific needs. Additionally, weighing goods before loading, utilising pallet truck scales, platform scales, or weigh beams, adds an extra layer of control, ensuring smooth and compliant transportation practices.

Choosing a Vehicle Weighing Partner

Micro Weighing Solutions (MWS Ltd) stands as a reliable partner for businesses seeking comprehensive solutions not only for vehicle weighing but also for the precise measurement of goods before loading onto lorries. MWS offers a diverse range of weighing equipment, including advanced pallet truck scales, versatile platform scales, and innovative weigh beams/U-Frame scales. These options provide businesses with the flexibility to weigh various types of goods, ensuring that they comply with legal weight limits before embarking on their journey.

Moreover, MWS’s commitment to quality and innovation extends to its cutting-edge vehicle weighing systems, encompassing both dynamic weighing solutions for on-the-move precision and static weighing scales for accurate assessments when vehicles are stationary. With MWS, businesses can benefit from a comprehensive suite of weighing solutions, tailored to meet the unique demands of industries ranging from logistics and distribution to manufacturing and beyond.

If you are unsure which solution is right for you, speak to one of our vehicle weighing experts today for a free consultation.

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