Legally bypassing weigh stations has now been around for more than 20 years, and with new technology and choices in the market, truck operators and enforcers are trying to maximizing the benefits of the growing networks.
Two of the main players, PrePass and Drivewyze, have nearly 1,000 sites nationwide combined. PrePass has more than 300 bypass sites in 31 states. Drivewyze is up to 567 sites in 35 states.
PrePass, the original pre-clear system, uses overhead readers to capture the identity of vehicles ahead of weigh stations. The readers pick up a signal from the windshield-mounted transponders in trucks, and the signal identifies the carrier in order to verify the bypass. Here’s a look at PrePass’ latest map of its bypass offerings:
PrePass currently has operational sites in 31 states with a number of committed sites, shown in yellow.To qualify for bypass, carriers must maintain a good safety record in the Inspection Safety System (ISS). Carriers that meet the safety standards can subscribe to the program, which costs up to $17 per truck, per month.
Drivewyze, which was founded in 2010, uses a smartphone or tablet app to communicate with inspection points to identify vehicles. The Drivewyze app also currently runs on onboard devices from Zonar, PeopleNet and Rand McNally.
The app transmits an encrypted message using information stored on the device to a secure server in the cloud, automatically, when the truck approaches an inspection site. This exchange is triggered by a geofence set up at the site. Here’s a look at Drivewyze’s state map (lighter blue signifies Drivewyze presence):
Drivewyze is operational in 35 states and approximately 567 service sites.Law enforcement is connected to the same server but uses a different interface to screen vehicles before they reach the inspection location.
The Drivewyze mobile bypass service, PreClear, requires no installation of hardware at weigh stations.
Overdrive sister site CCJ has a more in-depth write-up on bypass systems. Click here to read it.
