To ensure that your truck scale will last as long as possible, it’s important to ensure that it is well maintained. It’s even more important to ensure that you are operating the equipment correctly with every use.
Not only will proper maintenance and usage help your machinery long-term, it will also help ensure your measurements are accurate and maximize your earnings. This article is going to go through the best practises for loading and unloading your truck weigh scale.
Before You Load
To veteran vehicle scale operators, this may all be second nature, but it also means that you can form some seemingly innocent habits that could have some major effects in the long run.
First, ensure that the scale is zeroed out before every weigh-in. Apply a test load that is about 30% of the maximum weight of the scale.
Next, change the test load placement to different locations around the scale. We suggest dividing the scale into quadrants and testing the load in each of the quadrants, including the very centre of the scale.
The test load should read the same weight regardless of where it is on the scale. If it’s not, you should calibrate the scale. This will ensure the accuracy of the truck being measured.
Loading Your Truck Scale
Once you’ve zeroed the scale and applied your weight test, you can proceed with the weigh-in.
When pulling your truck onto the scale deck, be sure to do so slowly. Abrupt changes in weight, on or off the scale, can be damaging to the mechanical parts. Also, when you are pulling onto the scale, be sure to do so in the centre of the scale.
It’s a good idea to chock the wheels while on the scale to prevent any unexpected movement from the vehicle that could result in safety issues and also help increase the accuracy of the weight measurement.
If the truck or load is more than one trailer, you will have to perform the weigh-in in multiple stages. Work with your scale operator in order to determine what method is best to suit your specific load and the particular scale you are using.
Loading Best Practices
- Do not stay parked on the scale if you are not actively using it. Not only is this bad manners to other trucks who may need to weigh-in, it puts unnecessary strain on scale parts.
- Turn down any music or radio to ensure clear communication between both the driver and scale operator.
Unloading Your Truck Scale
After your load has been weighed and you have been cleared to move off of the scale, it is important that you unload from the weigh scale properly. Be sure to remove the chocks from the tires and as mentioned before, drive off slowly to prevent any additional strain on the scale from sudden changes in weight.
After the scale is clear, be sure that the device is returned to zero. Some scale devices will have a specific “Unload Button” that either you or the operator must push in order to indicate the weighing session is over for the scale to be zeroed out.
Unloading Best Practises
- Be aware of your surroundings. As you are slowly driving off the scale, ensure the way is clear of people, equipment, debris, etc.
- Be sure to clear the scale and surrounding area to the best of your maneuverability after you’ve driven off the scale to be mindful of anyone else who needs to use the scale afterward.
Whether you’re loading or unloading, clear communication with your weigh scale operator is key. They will be able to guide you while you are onsite and help you maneuver any tricky situations.
If you ever have any questions about how to properly use a truck weigh scale, be sure to contact us at Active Scale and we will be happy to help.
