Smart OBM – FAQs & Expert Insights

Smart On-Board Mass (SmartOBM) is a system that measures axle and gross vehicle mass in real time and digitally records the data for compliance, safety and operational efficiency.

SmartOBM is required for some heavy vehicle operations, particularly those operating under regulated telematics schemes such as TMA, PBS and HPFV access conditions. If you are unsure if you require SmartOBM, contact the NHVR or your heavy vehicle auditor: https://www.nhvr.gov.au/contact-us

SmartOBM systems used for regulated telematics must be type-approved by Transport Certification Australia (TCA).

TCA's specifications are that Mass Sensor Units must achieve at least 98% accuracy of mass readings; ie. readings should be within +/- 2% of the true mass. 

This requirement applies when the vehicle is stationary on level ground, the SmartOBM gauge has been calibrated and is operating in accordance with the specification.

SmartOBM does not replace certified weighbridges for enforcement, but it significantly reduces the need for re-weighing by providing real-time mass visibility. Optimising operations to reduce costs and save time.

SmartOBM is commonly used on PBS vehicles, High Productivity Freight Vehicles and fleets operating under mass-based access or telematics requirements. If you’re unsure whether you need SmartOBM, reach out to the NHVR or your heavy vehicle auditor.

Yes. SmartOBM systems provide mass data through mobile apps and web platforms, giving fleet managers real-time and historical visibility.

SmartOBM provides auditable mass data, helping operators, schedulers and managers demonstrate proactive compliance with CoR obligations.

In telematics, an Application Service Provider (ASP) is a company certified to deliver telematics based services, such as vehicle tracking and monitoring, to fleet operators. ASPs provide the technology and systems that enable fleet managers to monitor their vehicles, drivers, and operations, often through a subscription-based model. 

The Transport Certification Australia (TCA) has established a framework for Telematics Monitoring Application (TMA), which includes ASPs that provide telematics services for monitoring heavy vehicles. 

Pairing with an ASP is critical when operating under TMA because it ensures your OBM data is trusted, standardised, and compliant. This application means you can legally run under higher mass limits or access restricted networks.

Smart OBM is required when vehicles are operating under higher mass limits or certain PBS access approvals where regulators need confidence in mass compliance.

It works by using onboard sensors that measure axle group and total vehicle mass, then sending that data to your ASP. 

Outside compliance, Smart OBM is incredibly useful day-to-day. Drivers can see their axle weights in real time, fleets can save time by reducing weighbridge visits, and operators can avoid overload fines while maximising payloads.

Getting Started with RIM and TMA Enrolments

If you’re looking to enrol vehicles in the RIM (Road Infrastructure Management) or TMA (Telematics Monitoring Application) schemes under Australia’s ​National Telematics Framework, here are some helpful tips on how the process typically works:

1. Determine which scheme you need

Requirements vary depending on your jurisdiction and vehicle type. Information on the different schemes is available on the Transport Certification Australia (TCA) website.

2. Choose a certified Application Service Provider (ASP)

You must use a TCA type-approved telematics device and a certified ASP to manage your enrolment and ongoing data reporting.

Well-known providers include:

• Teletrac Navman
• MTData
• V-DAQ
• Blackbox
• Netstar

Be sure your chosen ASP can integrate with your selected Smart OBM provider.

3. Complete enrolment with your ASP

Your ASP will guide you through:

• Providing vehicle and operator details
• Installing a certified telematics device
• Submitting your enrolment to TCA
• Receiving enrolment confirmation

If you are enrolling under TMA schemes involving mass monitoring, you will also need to install your Smart OBM device.

Final Tips

• Check your permits or notices via the NHV​R or your state transport authority to confirm which scheme(s) apply.
• Always use a certified ASP to ensure compliance with device and enrolment requirements.
• Consult your ASP for state-specific options and support.
• Install Smart OBM scales early to avoid delays with TMA compliance.

Apply through the regulator (e.g., NHVR) for the RIM or TMA scheme that covers your access needs. For information on schemes requiring RIM/TMA paired with SmartOBM visit https://tca.gov.au/service-offering/road-infrastructure-manage​ment​ .  To apply for a Permit, visit the NHVR at www.nhvr.gov.au.

Airtec works closely with ASPs to make sure enrolment runs smoothly. The most common mistake we see is operators waiting until access is refused before considering Smart OBM — our advice is to set it up early to avoid delays.

The data sent to the TCA is generic vehicle information including geolocation and axle weights. This data is collected and utilised to better manage Australia's road infrastructure.

Data generate from TMA and RIM should not be solely used or relied upon for law enforcement purposes under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. 

Only data collected from Level 3 assurance applications, such as the Intelligent Access Program, can be used as prima facie evidence for HVNL enforcement purposes.

Under the National Telematics Framework (NTF), RIM/TMA schemes are designed to:

• Streamline permits for heavy vehicles
• Enable access to sensitive road sections (e.g. bridges or descents)
• Replace legacy systems like the Intelligent Access Program (IAP)
  
• Enhanced fleet data for better business management

OBM systems need to be calibrated at a certified weighbridge at intervals set by the SmartOBM's TCA Approval. For Airtec, this is set at every six months. Our advice is to treat calibration like any other scheduled maintenance item — plan it into your service cycle so it doesn’t become a compliance headache.

Smart OBM isn’t just about compliance — it’s about improving your businesses bottom line by

• Maximise payloads without risking overload
  
  
• Reduce weighbridge costs and delays
  
  
• Avoid fines and penalties from incorrect loading
  
  

Improve asset utilisation by knowing exactly what you’re carrying

For many operators, the savings and efficiency gains quickly outweigh the subscription costs. In other words, Smart OBM pays for itself.