How the PrePass is Changing the Trucking Industry
Posted on Thu, Mar 24, 2011 @ 12:28 PM
In today’s world, almost all data is digitally processed and/or stored, and that includes in the trucking industry. More and more trucks are getting registered to the PrePass system. The system allows truckers to bypass open weigh stations instead of stopping at each one. Thanks to the recent addition of Texas, 30 states now have PrePass technology in certain inspection facilities. According to PrePass Online, there are now almost 300 locations that accept the technology and more than 400,000 truckers are registered PrePass users. By adding yet another state to the list, PrePass is soon to leave weigh stations deserted.
The way it works is as drivers pass under an electronic reader that is located on a boom constructed over the highway. The reader scans a transponder that is positioned on the inside of the driver’s windshield to identify the vehicle. The information is sent from the boom to a PrePass computer located inside the scale house at the weigh station. The computer translates the information and verifies whether or not the truck complies with state regulations. The driver then passes under a second boom which flashes either a green or red light; green if everything checks out and the truck is allowed to bypass the station, red if the driver’s credentials, safety, and/or weight is not validated.
As you would expect, the system is designed to promote efficiency and shave time off deliveries. It is great because a driver can weigh in while traveling at highway speed. The only real downside to the program is getting randomly inspected. As mentioned above a red light could mean that the vehicle will have to undergo a manual inspection. It won’t cost the driver any more time than a normal weigh in but it is slower as compared to just driving past the station. Other cons to the system are the monthly service fee, but paying for PrePass does allow you unlimited bypasses. Also there are requirements carriers must meet in order to be eligible for the service, and vary by state.
This service should continue to grow in popularity as carriers start to see the benefits and as PrePass continues to expand its services to toll paying and electronic logging. With 30 states already allowing bypassing it could only be a matter of time before more join in.