Select portable axle scales from the heaviest expected wheel load, the number of wheels weighed at once and the required decision. A complete system includes suitable pads, levelling or ramps, an indicator, power, transport protection and a written vehicle-weighing procedure.
1. Calculate the load at each pad
Gross vehicle weight is not enough for pad sizing. Use the worst credible wheel load, including uneven loading and axle-group distribution, then review overload protection with the supplier.
- Maximum single wheel load
- Single or dual tyres
- Maximum axle and axle-group load
- Vehicle length and wheelbase range
- Any abnormal or off-centre loading
2. Choose the pad layout with the procedure
Two pads may support sequential wheel or axle checks; more pads can capture multiple wheels simultaneously. The pad count changes the driving sequence, setup time and way gross weight is calculated.
| Layout question | Why it changes the system |
|---|---|
| How many wheels are on one axle? | Determines simultaneous support and pad quantity |
| Will the vehicle stop or move? | Changes the measurement method and site controls |
| Must all axles remain level? | May require dummy pads, levelling mats or a prepared lane |
| Will sites change? | Adds transport, setup and site-approval requirements |
3. Approve the weighing surface
A firm, level and repeatable surface is part of the measurement system. Document allowable slope, approach length, pad recess or ramp arrangement and vehicle alignment. Soft ground and improvised ramps can invalidate a comparison.
4. Specify the record before the printer
List the vehicle ID, axle values, gross value, time, site, operator and approval status required by the buyer. Then choose local printing, file export or software integration.
5. Run a controlled acceptance trial
Test representative vehicles, repeat the same sequence and compare against an agreed reference method. Record site conditions and do not generalise the result beyond the tested configuration.
Decision guidance
Use static weighing when the vehicle can stop in a controlled position and the priority is a deliberate axle-by-axle check. Consider low-speed weigh-in-motion only when vehicle flow matters and the site can control approach, speed, alignment and system verification.
Axle and gross-weight rules, type approval and enforcement use vary by jurisdiction. The importer or responsible authority must confirm the exact instrument and procedure before regulated use.
References
The following standards and technical references are useful when defining a project specification and evaluation method.
Forklift Scales
Loader Scales
Portable Axle Scales
Belt Scales
Weighing Indicators
