Avoid Overloading. Improve Safety. Stay NZTA Compliant with Loadsense Onboard Scales.

Hydrovac trucks — also known as vacuum waste trucks or “sucker trucks” — play a critical role in New Zealand’s infrastructure, civil, and waste industries. Whether it’s daylighting underground utilities, cleaning septic tanks, or handling hazardous waste, these powerful machines carry unpredictable and often heavy loads.

But with strict NZTA regulations on Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and axle group loading, it’s all too easy for these trucks to become non-compliant — even before they leave the work site.

Enter Loadsense — a Kiwi-designed onboard weighing solution that gives vacuum truck operators accurate weight readings in real time. Our system ensures compliance, road safety, and cost control — all without the price tag of more complex load monitoring equipment.

The Overloading Challenge in NZ’s Vacuum Truck Sector

Because hydrovac trucks carry material of varying density — from water and sludge to gravel or hydro-excavated clay — operators can easily exceed axle limits without knowing it. The problem is worsened on uneven or remote job sites where weighbridge access is non-existent.

The risks?

  • Infringement notices and instant fines from NZTA or police roadside checks

  • Vehicle downtime from overloading infringements

  • Increased wear and tear on brakes, suspension, and tyres

  • Unsafe road conditions for drivers and the public

  • Loss of contracts or ACC claims if safety isn’t prioritised

Understanding NZTA Compliance: GVM and Axle Loading Rules

In New Zealand, vacuum trucks must comply with Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2016 and Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002. Enforcement is increasing as authorities introduce more weigh-in-motion (WIM) stations, spot checks, and roadside compliance units.

Even a single overloaded axle can result in:

  • Instant $600+ fines

  • 3 demerit points

  • Prosecution for serious overloading offences

  • Reputational damage if linked to an incident

Loadsense: The Smart, Cost-Effective Weighing Solution for Kiwi Operators

At Loadsense, we’ve built a solution with the Kiwi operator in mind — rugged, reliable, easy to install, and affordable, without compromising on accuracy.

✅ Onboard Weighing for Air Suspension

We use air bag weighing sensors, fitted to each axle group on the truck and trailer. One sensor is installed per levelling valve, and readings are transmitted via robust RF wireless (not unreliable Bluetooth like other systems). A wired option is also available.

✅ Hydraulic Weighing for Hoist-Equipped Trucks

For sucker trucks using hydraulic lift rams, our hydraulic pressure sensors deliver highly accurate load data without expensive modifications. It’s the perfect cost-effective alternative to full load cell systems.

✅ Real-Time Weight Monitoring

Drivers and fleet managers receive instant load data on in-cab displays, helping prevent accidental overloading before getting on the road.

Benefits of Loadsense for NZ Vacuum Waste Fleets

✔ Stay NZTA Compliant
Avoid costly penalties by ensuring GVM and axle compliance at all times.

✔ Cut Maintenance Costs
Prevent overloading-related wear and reduce mechanical failures.

✔ Enhance Driver Safety
Reduce rollover risks and braking issues caused by unbalanced or overweight loads.

✔ Protect Your Reputation
Demonstrate commitment to health & safety and environmental compliance on every job.

✔ Flexible Install Options
Install on new or existing vacuum trucks, whether rigid or truck-and-trailer combinations.

✔ Made for NZ Conditions
Designed for rugged, uneven sites, remote jobs, and Kiwi-built vacuum truck setups.

Built in New Zealand. Trusted Nationwide.

From Auckland to Invercargill, Loadsense is trusted by vacuum truck operators, civil contractors, and waste service providers across Aotearoa. Whether you’re running a single sucker truck or managing a national fleet, our onboard weighing systems offer Kiwi-built reliability at a price that works.

Ready to Equip Your Vacuum Trucks with Loadsense?

Don’t leave your compliance — or your business — to chance. Stay ahead of the game with Loadsense onboard scales, the most cost-effective and compliant weighing solution for New Zealand vacuum trucks.

Learn more at: https://loadsensescales.com
Enquire today: [email protected]