Scale Software’s Role in Waste Transfer

The Function of Scale Software

Scale software translates physical deformation into usable data. Its job is to read and interpret the stains induced to the load cells and evaluate this physical change into an accurate weight measure. The software then takes these individual weight readings and provides useful context in the form of reports for the scale operator to interpret the data. This data primarily consists of weight records showing truck serial number, name of driver, time and date of weighing, accumulated totals, etc. Based on this data, the scale software can automatically issue payment tickets to the driver and prepare monthly billing statements to customers using the scale. More advanced software systems allow for automated truck loading systems and allow for automated truck loading and manage automated truck loading operations. This involves automated control of the actual loading and unloading process.

The hardware systems run by scale software can be extensive. In addition to automated load management systems, the software runs hardcopy printers for priming out reports and issuing load tickets, coordination with the landfill’s management information system, interfacing with radio frequency identification (RFID) chips imbedded in the truck or its load, self-diagnostics that allow for regular calibration of the entire truck scale system, optimizing truck routes and schedules, and higher level administrative reports writing and record keeping.

The point of using scale software to automate the weighing process, reduces—if not completely eliminates—human labor from the operational loop. There would be no need for a scale attendant, and no need for manual updates of truck hauling data. No need for visual confirmation of driver and truck identify, this is accomplished by use of an RFID chip. Regulation of the truck queue can also be performed by scale software, with it automatically operating traffic signals and sensing truck locations. Built-in security codes prevent fraud. The whole package eliminates human error and reduces operational costs.

The Solid Waste Industry

So what does a scale software system have to offer the solid waste industry? Like any other business, a landfill is in business to make money. Landfill operators are continuously faced with increased fuel, equipment, and labor costs. Anything that saves money on the operational budget can give a landfill operator that competitive edge he needs to stay afloat. In addition to the direct cost savings described above, the accurate data recorded by a truck scale system positively affect the rest of the landfill’s operation. Accurate, real-time data of tonnages received and types of loads accepted by the landfill allows the operator to better coordinate disposal and compaction operations out on the working face. The maximizes in-place density of disposed waste, minimizing he need for daily cover, and delays the need for capital expenditures associated with constructing the next disposal cell.

In an evermore competitive industry environment, truck scale data can lead to greater customer satisfaction, even as customer demands for quality service and reduced costs continue to increase. Customer communication is improved with automated billing. The software allows for differentiating between residential and commercial customers, ensuring timely pickups, or at least the prompt notification of blocked dumpsters or missed pickups. Route optimization features would lead to more efficient and timely hauling operations while improving driver safety.

And it’s not just customers who are pressuring landfill operators. The local community groups and government officials exert their influence on the landfills. Both can be the source of legal and political accusations. Both can make demands on an operator that can greatly increase his operating costs over and above those required by legal statutes and regulatory standards. Complete and detailed record keeping is the first line of defense for any landfill operation. That record keeping begins with the data accumulated by, and the reports generated by, scale software systems.