Customer Profile

Operating a vast network of delivery depots across the UK, this industry leader handles thousands of parcels daily. With a commitment to operational excellence and road safety, they sought an automated system to streamline vehicle weighing, transitioning away from their existing, manual processes.

The Challenge

Before partnering with MWS, the client relied on portable weighpads to check vehicle weights. While functional, this approach required frequent relocation and manual oversight, limiting the efficiency and accuracy of weight assessments. Instead of comprehensive checks, only sporadic weight spot checks were conducted, increasing the risk of overloaded vehicles hitting the road. The company needed a permanent, automated solution that could provide reliable, real-time weight data without disrupting their operations.

The MWS Solution

The solution the client envisioned didn’t exist – until MWS stepped in. Collaborating closely with the client, MWS developed a pioneering product that redefines the vehicle weighing market.

At the heart of this innovation is the MWS axle weigher. Unlike traditional weighpads, vehicles can travel smoothly over this system in one continuous motion. An Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system reads the vehicle’s registration plate and instantly cross-references the weight with a comprehensive database of vehicle classifications. Within just six seconds of arriving at the weigh station, the system provides real-time feedback to the driver via a large VMS screen, indicating whether the vehicle is within legal weight limits or if the gross axle weight exceeds the permitted threshold.

This system is further enhanced by MWS’s cloud-based management software. Operating seamlessly over 4G and 5G networks, the web application aggregates data from multiple sites into a centralised database. This data is then accessible through third-party reporting tools like Power BI and Google BigQuery, offering the client a holistic view of vehicle weight data across their entire operation.

Conclusion

The introduction of this automated vehicle weighing solution has brought about transformative benefits for the client. Not only has it dramatically reduced the likelihood of overloaded vehicles on public roads, thereby enhancing road safety and vehicle longevity, but it has also ensured compliance with weight regulations. The shift from manual weighpad operations to an automated system has streamlined the entire process, significantly reducing labour costs and expediting the deployment of compliant vehicles.

Given its success, the client is now rolling out this system across all their UK depots. This case study demonstrates the power of innovation and collaboration, highlighting how MWS’s bespoke solution has set a new standard in vehicle weighing for the multi-drop parcel delivery industry.

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What is a weighbridge used for?

The purpose of weighbridges is to determine the weight of a vehicle and its contents. This information serves several important functions, including ensuring compliance with weight restrictions and regulations, assessing tolls or fees, and monitoring vehicle weight for safety reasons.

To illustrate, let’s consider a scenario involving a shipping company transporting a load of goods. Prior to loading the truck, it is driven onto a weighbridge and weighed. The weight data is then recorded and stored in the company’s computer system.

Next, the truck is loaded with the goods and driven onto another weighbridge to be weighed once again. The weight reading is compared to the previously recorded weight to ensure the truck does not exceed weight restrictions and is not overweight.

If the weight exceeds the limit, the company may need to unload and redistribute the goods or pay additional fees for transporting the excess weight. By utilising a weighbridge, the shipping company can ensure compliance with regulations, avoiding potential fines and safety risks associated with overweight vehicles.

How are weighbridges constructed?

Weighbridges typically consist of a platform made of steel or concrete, supported by load cells that measure the weight of the vehicle as it passes over. They may also include a computer system to record weight readings and other relevant data such as vehicle identification numbers, as well as the time and date of weighing.

There are four common types of weighbridges available:

1. Pit-mounted weighbridges: These weighbridges are installed in a dug pit, with the weighing surface flush with the ground level. They are suitable for sites with limited space or where a low profile is necessary.
2. Surface-mounted weighbridges: Installed above ground level, trucks drive onto the weighing surface via a ramp. Surface-mounted weighbridges are easier and more cost-effective to install but require more space compared to pit-mounted weighbridges.
3. Portable weighbridges: Designed for easy mobility between different locations, these weighbridges are lightweight and typically made of durable materials like aluminum or steel. They are ideal for temporary sites or remote locations.
4. Axle weighbridges: These weighbridges are specifically designed to weigh individual axles or groups of axles instead of the entire vehicle. Commonly used in industries such as mining and construction, axle weighbridges ensure that each axle stays within weight limits.

When choosing a weighbridge, you should consider factors such as available space, budget, and specific application requirements. Researching different manufacturers and comparing their products, pricing, reliability, durability, and customer support is recommended.

How much does a weighbridge cost?

The cost of a weighbridge can range from £12,000 to £25,000, depending on the required application and sophistication. Solutions that connect to internal systems for data capture and management may be more expensive.

Weightru offers a range of high-quality weighbridges suitable for various applications, along with a dedicated support team for service, calibrations, and repairs. Contact one of our specialists today to find the right weighbridge solution for your needs.

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