What is a weigh station used for?

A weigh station is primarily utilized to check the weight of commercial vehicles and ensure that they comply with regulations set forth by transportation authorities. The primary purpose of weigh stations is to maintain road safety and infrastructure by preventing overweight vehicles from operating on public roads. Overweight vehicles can cause significant wear and damage to road surfaces and can pose safety hazards due to handling and braking issues.

While weigh stations can sometimes be equipped to conduct additional inspections, such as checking vehicle safety features or ensuring emissions compliance, their main function is focused on weighing vehicles. This regulatory process helps maintain fair competition among carriers and supports overall road safety by ensuring that all vehicles meet legal weight limits.