Operational efficiency is essential for Incitec Pivot Fertilisers (IPF) to maximise product usage and ensure timely delivery to customers.
To support this, IPF's EASY Liquids has introduced tank monitoring sensors to streamline operations and improve fertiliser delivery and stock management, ensuring farmers have fertiliser supplies readily available, particularly during peak seasonal demand.
Before implementation, EASY Liquids relied on manual checks to monitor liquid fertiliser levels in storage tanks across farms. Farmers were tasked with reporting stock levels, which could lead to errors or delays, especially during busy periods. EASY Liquids Product Manager, Ben Anderson, said this lack of visibility has often resulted in costly logistical challenges. “During peak seasons, farmers have a lot on their plate, and relying on them to manually check tank levels can lead to shortages or unnecessary trips,” Ben said. To address these challenges, EASY Liquids partnered with remote sensing technology provider,INCYT, to install wireless pressure sensors on hire and storage tanks. This technology enables real-time monitoring of tank levels, providing immediate visibility for both operations teams and farmers, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined operation.
Real-time tank monitoring saves farmers time by allowing them to monitor tank levels remotely by a dashboard, providing full visibility and proactive alerts when it’s time to refill and helping them stay prepared. Moree-based Australian Food & Fibre (AFF) Farm Manager – Telleraga, Jake Stringer, said the real-time tank monitoring sensors have had a positive impact on daily operations. “Before using the system, we spent a lot of time driving around the farm to manually check tanks, especially during busy seasons,” Jake said. “Now, I can check all 30 tanks from my phone, whether I’m in the office or out in the paddock. Itsaves us a lot of time and effort. “Having the ability to prioritise which tanks need filling first has been incredibly helpful, particularlyduring peak periods. I no longer have to worry about running out of product because I can track everything in real time.”
Regarding efficiency and cost savings, Jake said the system allows him to track usage over time, making sure the right amount of fertiliser is being applied at the right rate. “This precision has helped reduce waste and improve overall cost efficiency,” Jake said. “Instead of having to check in with the team constantly, I can now tell them which tanks need attention based on the real-time data. “This has helped streamline communication across our supply chain, enhancing efficiency and simplifying the management process.”
Live data from the sensors has transformed the way EASY Liquids operates. National Operations Manager at EASY Liquids, Dale Richter, said the sales team had to previously rely on communication with production staff to confirm stock availability, which often led to inefficiencies. “With sensor data now feeding directly into the company’s dashboard, the sales team can instantly view tank levels and plan deliveries, eliminating redundant communication and helping streamline thesupply chain,” Dale said. “By utilising the sensors, we’ve achieved significant efficiency gains, and it’s reassuring to know our inventory is accurate. “The sales team no longer wastes time checking stock, and farmers can remotely monitor their tanks, reducing the need for manual checks.”
EASY Liquids began deploying the INCYT units in October 2024, focussing on high-demand regions like Whitton and Moree, where crops such as cotton require precise fertiliser management. Dale said nearly 180 units are now operational, with plans to expand to 300 across multiple locations. “This expansion will further enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, speed up deliveries, and streamline logistics, simplifying our customers’ experience and allowing our team to focus on what they do best,” Dale said.
The integration of these sensors is more than just a way for IPF to reduce manual work; it’s part of a broader shift toward automation and data-driven decision making. As the technology evolves, Ben said EASY Liquids plans to move toward fully automated processes, potentially enabling remote tank management that adjusts fertiliser deliveries based on real-time data. “This is just the beginning. We’re committed to modernising our systems to drive even greater efficiency and cost savings,” Ben said. “Our long-term goal is to expand this technology across more farms and integrate it further into the broader agricultural market.” IPF is committed to helping farmers improve productivity and profitability by expanding its range of products and services, with a focus on nutrient efficiency, flexibility, and environmental performance.For growers within IPF’s footprint interested in adopting this technology, please contact your local IPF representative.
This article was first published in DIG DEEP: Industry Insights from Incitec Pivot Fertilisers | Autumn 2025 | Edition 04
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