Step-by-Step: How to Weigh Your Truck

Pulling onto a CAT scale the right way saves time and avoids reweighs. Approach the scale slowly and straight-on. Keep the brakes released and stop when all axles are on the platform. Use the intercom or the CAT Scale App to start the weigh. You'll be asked for your truck number or company name. There's no need to exit the cab.

Your first weigh gives you steer, drive, and trailer axle weights, plus the gross weight. If you're over on any axle, you'll need to adjust your tandems (explained below). After making changes, pull back around for a re-weigh. This is cheaper and faster than starting over.

You should always weigh with a full fuel tank and loaded trailer unless you're scaling for an empty weight. Avoid setting your trailer brakes on the scale, because that might throw off the readings. Keep your ticket. That's your proof of legal weight and part of CAT's guarantee. If DOT or a shipper disputes your numbers, that slip backs you up!

Understanding the CAT Scale Ticket

The CAT Scale Ticket breaks down your rig's weight into four key numbers: steer axle, drive axles, trailer axles, and gross. Each one matters for different reasons. DOT officers check axle weights for compliance, while shippers may care more about gross.

Typical legal limits:

• Steer Axle: 12,000 lbs.
• Drive Axles: 34,000 lbs.
• Trailer Axles: 34,000 lbs.
• Gross: 80,000 lbs. (unless otherwise permitted)

The CAT ticket shows whether you're balanced or overloaded. If one axle is heavy but gross is legal, you'll need to redistribute. That's where sliding tandems or adjusting the fifth wheel comes in.

Watch for uneven axle loads, especially if you're hauling liquids or partial loads. A heavy trailer axle can trigger scale rejections or roadside fines. Keep the ticket for your records. CAT backs it with a guarantee, and it's your proof if you get questioned by DOT or a receiver.

Understanding the CAT slip isn't just about staying legal. It's about running smart and protecting your paycheck.

Fixing Axle Weights: Tandems and Fifth Wheel Adjustments

If your CAT ticket shows an overweight axle, you need to shift it. Most adjustments happen by sliding the trailer tandems. Moving tandems forward shifts weight to the trailer axles; sliding them back pushes weight onto the drives. Each hole typically weighs 250 to 500 pounds, but results can vary based on load type and trailer length.

To adjust, set the trailer brakes, unlock the tandem pins, and ease the truck forward or backward until the desired hole lines up. Re-lock the pins and double-check that they're fully engaged before rolling.

If your tractor has a sliding fifth wheel, you can fine-tune the steer vs. drive axle balance. Sliding it forward adds weight to the steer axle. Sliding it backward shifts the weight to the drive axle. Not all rigs have this option, and it's rarely needed unless the steer axle is light or heavy.

After adjusting, pull around and do a re-weigh to confirm that you're legal. Don't guess! CAT re-weighs are cheap insurance against DOT fines or shipper rejections. Don't forget to scale with the fuel tanks full and brakes released for accurate readings.

Tips to Avoid Citations and Rejections

Overweight citations can range from $150 to over $1,000, depending on the state and severity. Even worse, some shippers might reject your load if your axle weights aren't dialed in. This can cost you hours or the entire run.

To avoid that, always scale with full tanks and the brakes released. Use the CAT Scale App to skip the intercom and get digital tickets instantly. If you're adjusting tandems, know your hole-to-weight ratio and re-weigh right away. Don't try to "guess-timate" your rig's weight.

Keep your CAT ticket as proof. Their guarantee means they'll pay the fine if you were legal at their scale and somehow end up getting fined for a weight violation. That slip is your backup during DOT inspections or shipper disputes.

You should also plan ahead. Use the app to find a CAT scale early in the trip and not at the last minute. If you're hauling variable loads like produce or liquids, expect shifting weight and plan to scale more often during the run. A few extra minutes at a CAT scale beats the hell out of hours stuck at a weigh station or dock.