Editor's Note: This piece was written by Kevin Hill, an online marketing manager at Quality Scales Unlimited. The opinions represented in this piece are independent of Smart Cities Dive's views.
When it comes to farming, one of the toughest tasks is in managing the yield data. Whether farmers are handling a small field or thousands of hectares, they need to have accurate data in order to manage the harvest.
High volume farmers are even more in need of accurate data during harvest as it helps them plan for the new season. This is where agriculture weighing systems come in handy. With the evolution of technology in weighing scales, farmers can now choose from a wide range of systems to guarantee accurate numbers. With more accurate data, farmers enjoy better ROI and are more organized — which offers a competitive edge in one of the most competitive industries.
Investing in the best agricultural weigh scales is a great step toward improving productivity on the farm. There are many options for acquiring a weighing scale, including renting, but for long term it is more advisable to buy weighing scales. For small-scale operations, portable truck scales are popular and cost-effective for renting, especially during harvest season. For larger-scale operations, it is economical to invest in weigh bridge truck scales or other permanent scales.
Here are some of the most reliable agricultural scales to try on the farm:
Portable truck scales
Portable truck scales are a very popular option on both small and large farms due to their flexibility. They can be moved from one section of the farm to another without a lot of hassle, however they are limited in terms of capacity. They are electronic, which guarantees higher accuracy and can easily be installed in any part of the farm. All collected data is easy to manage and can be printed from the dashboard for better record keeping. These scales are also durable and can withstand any kind of weather.
Weigh bridge truck scales
Weigh bridge truck scales are a heavy duty option suitable for larger farms, and they are also a permanent alternative to all other weighing scales in the market. While they are more expensive to install, they are popular among large-scale farmers. They require minimal maintenance and can handle any amount of weight, and are also designed for use in any type of weather. They reduce labor time on large farms greatly, thus ensuring better ROI. For a large farming venture, this is the best weighing solution during harvest time. It is not only permanent but the user will not have to worry about the cost of weighing when the harvest comes in. It can also be customized to suit various farm sizes, terrain and other unique needs.
On-board scales
On-board scales can be integrated into any form of farm vehicle, which makes them a popular choice for farmers. They provide quicker data without the need for another external scale and their capacity is higher. This scale is ideal if you want to cut the cost of labor during harvest because the vehicle operator will get the measurements directly. When integrated with software, they are even more efficient and can help you manage your harvest in real-time. They also cut on the time required to measure the harvest, which is the dream of every farm manager. The dashboard is user-friendly and easy to use without any need for training.
Load scanners
Load scanners are not scales but instead 3-D scanners that convert volume data into weight. They are loaded with the latest software to optimize the harvest weighing process without the usual hassle and expense. They are accurate tools and while the initial cost might be high, this cutting edge technology will eventually offer higher ROI.
Truck scales are optimized to make harvest time more efficient and increase ROI. By investing in these weighing systems, you will be increasing the success of your farm.