Scales Buying Guide
Find the perfect scale for your business with our comprehensive guide covering capacities, accuracy levels, connectivity options, and specialized features.
Professional Recommendation
Point-of-sale (POS) scales are commercial-grade weighing devices designed to integrate directly with a POS system, allowing businesses to accurately weigh products and ring them up seamlessly at checkout. Ideal for grocery, deli, produce, and retail environments, POS scales ensure pricing accuracy by automatically sending weight data to the register, reducing errors and speeding up transactions.
Key Decision Factors
Light Duty (0-30 lbs)
Pros:
- Precise measurements
- Compact size
- Lower cost
Cons:
- Limited capacity
- Not for heavy items
- Basic features
Medium Duty (30-150 lbs)
Pros:
- Versatile capacity
- Good accuracy
- Standard features
Cons:
- Moderate cost
- Larger footprint
Heavy Duty (150+ lbs)
Pros:
- Maximum capacity
- Industrial durability
- Advanced features
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Large size
- May be overkill
Basic Weighing
Pros:
- Simple operation
- Lower cost
- Easy maintenance
Cons:
- Limited features
- Manual calculations
- Basic connectivity
Price Computing
Pros:
- Automatic pricing
- Label printing
- Customer display
Cons:
- Higher cost
- More complex
- Software dependent
Shipping Scales
Pros:
- Software integration
- Dimensional weighing
- Rate calculation
Cons:
- Specialized use
- Higher cost
- Complex Setup
NTEP Certified
Pros:
- Legal for commerce
- Regulatory compliance
- Audit protection
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Certification requirements
- Limited flexibility
Non-NTEP
Pros:
- Lower cost
- More options
- Flexible use
Cons:
- Not for trade
- No legal protection
- Limited commercial use
Class III Certified
Pros:
- Commercial grade
- High accuracy
- Trade approved
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Strict requirements
- Regular calibration needed
Professional Recommendations
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need NTEP certified scales for my business?
NTEP certification is required if you're selling products by weight for commercial transactions. This includes retail stores, delis, produce markets, and cannabis dispensaries. Non-NTEP scales can be used for internal operations, shipping, and general weighing tasks.
What's the difference between accuracy and precision in scales?
Accuracy refers to how close the displayed weight is to the true weight, while precision refers to how consistent repeated measurements are. For commercial use, you need both high accuracy and precision. Look for scales with appropriate readability for your needs.
How often should I calibrate my scales?
Calibration frequency depends on usage and regulatory requirements. NTEP scales typically need annual calibration by certified technicians. High-use scales may need more frequent calibration. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and local regulations.
Can I use a regular scale for cannabis dispensary operations?
Cannabis dispensaries must use NTEP certified scales for all customer transactions. The scale must be appropriate for the weight range being measured and meet state regulatory requirements. Many states also require specific features like audit trails.
What connectivity options should I consider?
Modern scales offer USB, RS232, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity. Choose based on your POS system requirements. USB is common for basic connections, while Ethernet enables remote monitoring and data management for multiple locations.
How do I choose between a bench scale and a floor scale?
Bench scales are ideal for smaller items up to 150 lbs and fit on countertops. Floor scales handle heavier items and larger volumes, typically starting at 500 lbs capacity. Consider your typical product size, weight, and available space.