Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions and their answers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, get in touch with us through the Contact Us form at the bottom of the page.

01. Feed Ordering Hub

How does BinSentry’s Centralized Feed Ordering Hub deliver ROI?

BinSentry’s platform gives you visibility to the controllable costs in the feed supply chain. We help your organization drive increased profits by managing the most time-consuming and error-prone tasks within the livestock feed supply chain. Streamlining and automating the feed ordering processes enables you to enhance your operational efficiency; eliminate paper-based and manual processes, reduce costs related to inaccurate feed inventory data, feed outages and waste, late, missed and last-minute orders, transportation, and inefficient communication with your customers.

How long does it take to have the software installed and fully operational?

10 minutes and there is no on-site installation required since it’s a cloud-based software. Having an account running is as simple as signing up and importing your bins into our platform.

Are there any additional charges other than the monthly fee?

No. Everything is included in your monthly cost, including the installation of the software.

Do you integrate with other software?

Yes. We have an open API that enables third parties to seamlessly integrate our software with theirs.

We already have software integrations with some of the world’s industry leaders in AgTech; Cargill Nutrition Cloud, Format Solutions, Boehringer Ingelheim, MTech Systems, and Agriness.

Interested in integrating with BinSentry? Contact us at engineering@binsentry.com.

02. Sensor Technology

How does the sensor work? Is it laser, ultrasonic, proximity or some other technology?

It’s 9,000 times better! BinSentry 3D sensor uses machine vision technology, providing you with a 3D image of your feed level surface, allowing you to literally view a representation of the interior of the bin from any angle. Unlike single-point sensors, which just read 1 data point, BinSentry’s 3D sensor measures 9,000+ points on the feed surface (even when rat-holes occur), equipping you with the most accurate data even with the most challenging feed products.

Mounted to the lip of the feed bin hatch (no bin modification is required), our solar-powered and self-cleaning sensor measures the distance to the feed surface and converts this data into volume and tonnage. This information is then sent to our software so you can easily access real-time sensor data & insights and make smarter decisions.

Seeing is Believing. Watch here how the sensors work.

How accurate is it?

Our 3D sensor is 9,000x more accurate than other technologies on the market. BinSentry’s 3D sensor approaches the accuracy levels achieved by load cells at a fraction of the cost.

How often does the sensor test?

Our sensor performs a test every 4 hours. We then send this information to our dashboard, where we can use it to generate all kinds of other valuable data points and notifications.

Do BinSentry sensors detect feed flow irregularities?

Yes. Our 3D sensor provides you with a 3D representation of the feed surface, volume, and tonnage, enabling precise tracking of feed consumption and the ability to visually detect any irregularities, such as feed flow issues.

03. Sensor Installation

Do BinSentry sensors modify the feed bin?

No. Our sensor uses rare-earth magnets (magnets resistant to demagnetization) to secure our solar charging base to the bin’s roof. This piece of the hardware is connected to BinSentry’s patented zero-modification bracket, which is then placed inside the bin lid and secured on the lip of the feed bin hatch.

Does it require power? Does the weather affect its performance?

No. Our self-sustaining sensor is solar-powered, enabling it to operate indefinitely while the sun continues to shine. It continues to run through snow and rain, thanks to our battery backup.

Do I need an on-farm internet hub?

No. Our sensor connects directly to the cellular network to send data. This approach eliminates points of failure, increases redundancy, and reduces costs.

Will the sensor work in rural areas with little internet connectivity?

Yes. Our 3D sensors will work in areas covered by LTE-M networks, which are broadly deployed across North America. They specifically connect to leading LTE Cat M1 wireless networks, which are precisely built for IoT sensors to ensure long-range and low-power connectivity. These networks operate at a lower frequency, enabling the signal to travel farther distances.

What is the cost of installation?

$0; our SaaS monthly subscription covers the installation costs, any future service requirements, and device upgrades when available.

However, if, at any point, you wish to move a sensor from one bin to another, there is a fee for this service.

How long does it take to install a sensor?

Installation takes 15 minutes or less. BinSentry sensors not only guarantee the safety of your feed (completely non-contact, no cutting of holes) but also ensures the safety of your employees by eliminating the need to climb bins.

Do you have an installer in my area?

We have installation partners around the globe. No matter which rural area your bins are located in, we’ll be able to support you and your business!

Interested in becoming a BinSentry Certified Installation Partner? Apply here.

04. Subscription Service

How can I purchase BinSentry?

Our platform is based on a SaaS (Software as a Service) monthly basis subscription model. You just have to sign up for BinSentry Horizon with a few clicks.

Volume discounts are available. Learn how we can tailor our solution to your organization’s needs!

What happens after my contract expires?

We are confident that you’ll agree with our happy customers, that BinSentry’s Horizon platform delivers substantial ROI, and consequently, that you’ll choose to continue leveraging our software. However, if after our agreement expires you’re not satisfied, there’s no further obligation!

Are there any additional charges other than the monthly fee?

There is a fee for moving a sensor from one bin to another.

Otherwise, installation and service costs (if a sensor should require service) are still covered in your monthly fee. You also get a lifetime warranty for the duration of the agreement.

What are the warranty terms?

BinSentry Horizon offers you a lifetime warranty for the duration of your agreement.

Can I just buy the sensor?

We want to make monitoring your inventory worry and hassle-free. That’s why we offer our solution “As a Service” which eliminates the frustration of owning, installing, and maintaining a depreciating asset.

We believe that the best way to deliver peace of mind and the highest quality of service, is by allowing you to be efficient and focus on the things you do best while allowing BinSentry to take care of the technology.

Our SaaS subscription model also enables you to:

eliminate costly maintenance and repair fees
manage your expenses with one easy monthly payment
reduce service visits and biosecurity risks, thanks to over-the-air updates
constantly stay up to date with the latest user updates via software dashboard and notifications