Everything You Need to Know About Stockpile Measurement
Find answers to common questions about our drone-based stockpile measurement services, technology, accuracy, pricing, and implementation.
Questions about our drone technology and measurement accuracy
Our drone-based stockpile measurements achieve up to 99% volume accuracy using RTK/PPK-enabled drones combined with ground control points (GCPs) and control points. The high-resolution aerial data, processed through advanced photogrammetry and LiDAR software, produces survey-grade 3D models that are reliable for inventory audits, production reconciliation, and financial reporting.
Indoor drone surveys using LiDAR-equipped drones achieve up to 99% volume accuracy - comparable to outdoor surveys. In GPS-denied indoor environments like warehouses, sheds, and covered stockyards, our drones use SLAM-based navigation and LiDAR scanning to capture precise 3D point clouds. The controlled indoor conditions (no wind, consistent lighting for LiDAR) often result in highly consistent and repeatable measurements across surveys.
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning uses satellite correction data to achieve centimeter-level GPS accuracy on each image capture. This eliminates or reduces the need for ground control points while maintaining high accuracy. PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) uses similar technology but processes the corrections after the flight.
RGB photogrammetry uses overlapping photographs to create 3D models - it's cost-effective and works well in good lighting conditions. LiDAR uses laser pulses to directly measure distances - it works in any lighting, penetrates vegetation, and handles complex geometries better. We recommend the best technology based on your site conditions.
Yes, we use both ground control points (GCPs) and control points to ensure the highest level of accuracy. GCPs are precisely surveyed markers placed across the site that anchor the aerial data to real-world coordinates. Control points serve as independent checkpoints to validate and verify the survey accuracy. Together, they ensure our measurements are geo-referenced and audit-grade accurate.
RGB photogrammetry requires good daylight and clear conditions. LiDAR can operate in overcast conditions and low light. We generally avoid rain, high winds (>15 m/s), and extreme weather for safety. Night surveys are possible with LiDAR drones but require special approvals - and if approvals are not granted, we can deploy our mobile LiDAR equipment on the ground to capture the same survey-grade data without flying.
How our stockpile measurement service works
Most outdoor stockyard surveys are completed in 2-4 hours of field time. We can cover 100+ hectares per day with RTK drones. After the survey, you receive reports within 24 hours. In urgent cases, we can mobilize within 24-48 hours of approval.
Usually no. We coordinate with your operations team to fly when there's minimal activity. For safety, we may request pausing work directly under the drone's flight path, but this is typically brief and localized. Most clients continue normal operations during surveys.
You receive: volume report with cubic meters and tonnes, high-resolution orthomosaic map, 3D surface model, contour maps, cut/fill analysis vs previous surveys, cloud portal access to all data, and detailed survey documentation suitable for audits.
Yes. We provide data in standard formats (PDF, CAD, GeoTIFF, LAS) that integrate with most systems. For periodic surveys, we can set up automated data transfer to your ERP or inventory management system. Our cloud portal also offers API access for enterprise clients.
Yes. We provide training on how to read and interpret our reports, use the cloud portal, and understand the data. For site deployment engagements, we offer comprehensive training for your team to work alongside our operators.
We serve clients pan-India. For multi-site projects, we can coordinate surveys across all locations on a schedule that works for you. Volume discounts and dedicated account management are available for multi-site contracts.
Understanding costs and engagement models
Every project is unique, so pricing depends on several factors: the total site area to be surveyed, number and size of stockpiles, technology required (RGB photogrammetry, LiDAR, or both), whether it's a one-time survey or recurring contract, site location and accessibility, and any special requirements like DGCA permissions for restricted zones. We provide a detailed, transparent quote after understanding your specific needs - no generic pricing, no surprises. Get a free quote tailored to your site.
We offer three models: One-Time Surveys (for audits/verification), Periodic Surveys (monthly/quarterly visits with discounted rates), and Site Deployment (dedicated team stationed at your site). Most clients start with one-time surveys and move to periodic contracts.
No. Our quotes include survey, data processing, reports, and cloud portal access. The only additional costs would be: travel/accommodation for remote sites (if applicable), rush delivery (if you need reports in <12 hours), or special deliverables beyond our standard outputs.
Yes. Periodic survey contracts (monthly, quarterly) receive 20-30% discount compared to one-time rates. Annual contracts receive additional discounts. Multi-site operations also qualify for volume discounts.
No minimum for one-time surveys. Periodic survey contracts are typically quarterly or annual but can be customized. Site deployment contracts are minimum 6 months due to the resource commitment involved.
Regulatory compliance and safety protocols
Yes, absolutely. All our pilots hold valid DGCA Remote Pilot Licenses. Our drones are registered with DGCA. We follow all DGCA regulations including airspace restrictions, altitude limits, and operational procedures. We obtain necessary permissions for each survey.
Many industrial sites fall in yellow or red zones on the DGCA map. We handle all permission applications - typically this takes 3-5 working days. If permissions are not obtained, we deploy our ground-based LiDAR technology which is specifically designed for no-drone zones - delivering the same survey-grade accuracy without any airspace restrictions. Learn more about our No-Drone Zone survey services.
We maintain comprehensive safety protocols: pre-flight site risk assessment, maintaining safe distances from people and equipment, having trained observers, emergency procedures, insurance coverage, and coordination with site safety teams. All operations follow both DGCA and your site's safety requirements.
Yes. We carry comprehensive third-party liability insurance covering drone operations. Certificates can be provided as part of the contract documentation.
All survey data is encrypted and stored securely. Cloud portal access is password-protected. We sign NDAs as required. Data is not shared with third parties. For sensitive sites, we can provide additional security measures including on-premise data processing.
Yes. Our reports include all necessary documentation for statutory audits: methodology, equipment specifications, accuracy statements, coordinate systems used, and raw data access. Reports meet requirements of statutory auditors and chartered accountants.
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