Category Archives: Floor Scales

Recycling: A Sustainable Pathway to a Thriving Society

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In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly critical, recycling stands out as one of the most effective tools in our arsenal to combat the escalating challenges of waste management and resource depletion.

Recycling not only helps conserve natural resources but also has far-reaching benefits for our society, economy, and the environment. This article explores the multifaceted advantages of recycling and highlights the pivotal role that scales play in this process, weighing collected materials and enabling efficient transportation for a more sustainable future.

  1. Resource Conservation

One of the primary benefits of recycling is resource conservation. By reusing and repurposing materials, we can reduce our dependence on virgin resources. Many valuable resources, such as metals, plastics, and paper, can be recycled multiple times, lessening the need for extensive mining, drilling, and deforestation. Scales play a crucial role in recycling by accurately weighing the collected materials either on a floor scale or a truck scale. By knowing the precise weight, industries can better manage their resources, plan for production, and contribute to a circular economy.

floor scale

  1. Energy Savings

Recycling offers substantial energy savings compared to extracting raw materials. The energy required to process recycled materials is significantly lower than that needed to produce products from scratch. For example, recycling aluminum consumes only about 5% of the energy required for primary production. By using scales to monitor incoming materials and outgoing products, recycling facilities can optimize their energy consumption and identify areas for further efficiency improvements.

  1. Waste Reduction and Landfill Diversion

As the global population grows, so does the waste generated. Recycling helps divert a substantial amount of waste from landfills, reducing the burden on these sites and mitigating the associated environmental and health risks. By efficiently weighing the collected materials, municipalities can measure their recycling success, set targets for waste diversion, and develop waste management strategies that promote recycling and resource recovery.

  1. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction

Recycling plays a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. When materials are discarded in landfills, they undergo anaerobic decomposition, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By recycling materials instead, we can significantly decrease methane emissions and contribute to mitigating climate change. 

  1. Job Creation and Economic Growth

Recycling creates a multitude of job opportunities across various sectors, from collection and sorting to processing and manufacturing. The recycling industry not only fosters local employment but also contributes to economic growth. Moreover, by reducing waste management costs and conserving resources, recycling can lead to cost savings for industries, promoting competitiveness and overall economic resilience.

steel deck above ground truck scale

  1. Promoting Sustainable Consumption

Recycling is not solely a responsibility of waste management facilities. It also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable consumption patterns. As people become more aware of the importance of recycling, they are encouraged to make eco-conscious choices, such as opting for products with recyclable packaging. 

  1. Preserving Biodiversity

By reducing the demand for raw materials and minimizing waste disposal in landfills, recycling helps preserve natural habitats and protect biodiversity. Deforestation for resource extraction and landfill expansion can have devastating effects on ecosystems. 

  1. Community Engagement and Environmental Education

Recycling initiatives often foster community engagement and environmental education. As people participate in recycling programs, they become more connected to sustainable practices and take pride in their efforts to protect the environment. 

Recycling is a powerful mechanism that benefits society in multifaceted ways. It conserves resources, reduces energy consumption, diverts waste from landfills, curbs greenhouse gas emissions, stimulates economic growth, and preserves biodiversity. Scales play a vital role in weighing collected materials, usually on either a floor scale or a truck scale. By embracing recycling as a collective responsibility, we can create a more sustainable world for generations to come, where environmental consciousness and social well-being coexist in harmony.

Challenges Confronting Food Processing Companies: Navigating Quality & Weighing Accuracy

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Food processing companies play a crucial role in ensuring the supply of safe, nutritious, and consistent food products to consumers. However, this industry faces a myriad of challenges that demand constant innovation and diligent attention to overcome. Among the most pressing issues are maintaining product quality and achieving precise weighing accuracy in daily production. In this article, we delve into these challenges and explore how companies are navigating them to meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards.

1. Quality Assurance and Food Safety

One of the paramount concerns for food processing companies is maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety for their products. In an era of heightened awareness about foodborne illnesses and allergens, consumers demand transparency and accountability from manufacturers. Ensuring quality begins with sourcing top-grade raw materials and implementing stringent quality control protocols throughout the processing chain. Companies must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and other regulatory frameworks to minimize contamination risks.

Advanced technologies such as blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) applications are now being integrated to enhance traceability, allowing companies to identify and rectify potential issues swiftly. This level of transparency and proactive approach to quality assurance instills consumer confidence and cultivates brand loyalty.

2. Weighing Accuracy and Product Consistency

Accurate weighing is a fundamental aspect of food processing, directly impacting product consistency and cost management. Errors in weighing can lead to variations in product composition, affecting taste, texture, and appearance, which is unacceptable in a competitive market. Moreover, inaccuracies can result in overproduction or underproduction, leading to wastage or stock shortages, respectively.

check weighing

To tackle this challenge, companies invest in advanced weighing technologies such as more automated weighing systems, over & under check weighing, longer lasting accurate load cells, and precision portion scales built to withstand the food processing environment. Regular calibration and scale maintenance of these instruments are crucial to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Additionally, implementing Statistical Process Control (SPC) methods enables real-time monitoring and data analysis to identify potential deviations and maintain optimal performance.

3. Optimal Utilization of Weight Scales

Food processing companies often operate on tight profit margins, making efficient utilization of resources paramount. Electronic scales play a central role in production, and their performance directly impacts productivity and cost-effectiveness. The challenge lies in selecting the right type of weight scale for specific applications and ensuring its proper maintenance.

Different locations in the facility may require different types of weight scales, ranging from bench scales for small portions to heavy-duty stainless steel floor scales for bulk quantities. Integration of programmable scale controllers can streamline production and reduce human error. Regular training of personnel in operating and maintaining weight scales is essential to ensure their longevity and reliability.

Doran 2200CW stainless steel checkweigher

4. Compliance with Evolving Regulations

The food processing industry operates in a dynamic regulatory environment, with standards and guidelines subject to change. Companies must keep pace with these evolving regulations to avoid compliance issues and legal repercussions. Non-compliance not only jeopardizes consumer safety but also undermines brand reputation and market position.

Staying compliant requires continuous monitoring of regulatory updates, participation in industry associations, and investing in workforce training programs. Collaborating with regulatory experts can provide valuable insights into current and upcoming requirements, helping companies stay ahead of the curve.

5. Sustainability and Environmental Impact

As the world becomes increasingly environmentally conscious, food processing companies are under pressure to reduce their environmental footprint. This entails minimizing food waste, optimizing energy consumption, and adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions. Moreover, companies are exploring alternative sourcing of raw materials and engaging in responsible sourcing practices to support sustainability initiatives.

Final Thoughts:

The food processing industry faces a multitude of challenges, with maintaining quality and improving weighing accuracy, while improving the durability of the weighing equipment. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, adhering to best practices, and staying attuned to regulatory changes, companies can surmount these hurdles and continue to deliver safe, high-quality food products while safeguarding the environment and consumer trust. Be sure to contact our sales department (919) 776-7737 for more info on our food processing scales and weighing equipment that we offer.

The Weighty Issue of Waste: Scaling Up Solid Waste Management

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Garbage and waste have long been persistent challenges for modern societies. As our communities continue to grow, so does the amount of waste we generate. Proper management and transportation of solid waste are crucial for maintaining environmental sustainability and public health. One of the key tools in this endeavor is the use of scales to accurately measure and transport waste efficiently. In this article, we will delve into the world of garbage, waste management, and the importance of utilizing scales to tackle this ever-expanding issue.

The Growing Mountain of Waste

Waste is an inevitable byproduct of human activity. From household waste to industrial and commercial refuse, we generate vast amounts of garbage daily. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and consumerism have intensified this problem. This mounting waste poses significant threats to the environment, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.

Proper Waste Management: The Need of the Hour

To tackle the waste crisis, efficient waste management practices are essential. Effective waste management encompasses collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal. Without a well-structured waste management system, our communities risk being overwhelmed by the waste they produce.

digital truck scales

Scales: Pivotal Instruments in Waste Transportation

When it comes to the transportation of solid waste, scales play a pivotal role. Accurate weighing of waste is crucial for several reasons:

Cost Efficiency: Billing and charging waste generators based on the weight of their waste ensures fair and accurate billing. This incentivizes waste reduction and recycling, leading to cost savings in the long run.

Resource Allocation: Knowing the precise weight of waste aids in appropriate resource allocation for waste transportation and disposal, preventing overloading and reducing the carbon footprint.

Compliance and Regulation: Scales help waste management authorities comply with environmental regulations, ensuring that waste is disposed of or recycled responsibly.

Data for Decision-Making: Reliable waste weight data assists in making informed decisions for waste management policies and practices.

Scales in Waste Transportation: The Process

Waste transportation involves various stages, and scales come into play at several of these points:

Collection: At the collection stage, residential, commercial, and industrial waste needs to be accurately weighed before loading onto waste collection vehicles. Scales installed at waste transfer stations or designated collection points provide accurate measurements.

Transfer Stations: Waste transfer stations act as hubs for consolidating waste from multiple collection points. Scales at these facilities measure the waste before transferring it to larger vehicles, such as garbage trucks or waste haulers.

Landfills and Recycling Centers: At the final destination, be it a landfill or a recycling center, scales are crucial for weighing incoming waste. This data helps landfill operators or recycling facilities to track waste volumes, manage capacity, and plan future operations effectively.

high quality scales and weighing equipment

Innovations in Waste Management Scales

The waste management industry has witnessed notable advancements in weighing technology to improve efficiency and accuracy:

On-board Weighing Systems: Some waste collection vehicles now come equipped with on-board weighing systems that provide real-time weight data. These systems help optimize collection routes, prevent overloading, and reduce wear and tear on vehicles.

Accurate Hi Tech Scales: Integration of scales with smart technologies and data management systems has revolutionized waste management. These scales provide real time info about their current status and if any errors exist. 

Portable Weighing Solutions: Portable scales are invaluable for weighing waste in areas where permanent installations are not feasible, such as construction sites or temporary waste collection points.

As the global waste crisis escalates, the importance of accurate waste management and transportation becomes even more apparent. Scales serve as indispensable tools in this endeavor, helping ensure efficient waste collection, fair billing, and compliance with environmental regulations.

By integrating smart technologies and innovative solutions, we can work towards a more sustainable future where waste is seen not as a burden, but as a resource to be managed wisely and responsibly. Through collaborative efforts between governments, waste management authorities, industries, and individuals, we can scale up our efforts to combat waste and protect the environment for generations to come.

Unboxing the Challenges: Navigating the Dimensions of Shipping Boxes and Pallets

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In today’s globalized world, shipping boxes and pallets have become an essential part of our daily lives. From online shopping to business logistics, these containers play a crucial role in moving goods from one place to another.

However, as convenience and efficiency have increased, so have the challenges faced by customers when dealing with freight companies. One of the most significant challenges is the shift towards using dimensional measurements in addition to weight when determining shipping costs. This article explores the various hurdles customers face daily, and how they can navigate through them to optimize their shipping experiences.

nci shipping scales by Avery Weigh-Tronix

The Dimensional Dilemma

Traditionally, shipping costs were determined solely based on weight. You placed your box on your Mettler Toledo BC60 and the weight displayed in your shipping software. It was easy! 

However, with advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability, freight companies have moved towards utilizing dimensional weight (DIM weight) calculations. DIM weight considers not only the actual weight of the package but also its dimensions to estimate the space it occupies in the carrier’s vehicle or aircraft. This means that even if a package is relatively light, its large size might result in higher shipping charges due to the wasted space it takes up in transit.

Customers are often caught unaware by this shift and may receive unexpected bills if they fail to measure their boxes accurately or overlook the significance of the dimensions. Furthermore, when shipping multiple items together, the combined dimensions can impact the total shipping cost significantly. If you’re shipping a decent amount of boxes or pallets each day, you’re going to get tired of taking out the tape measure or the yard stick.  You need a more automated solution for obtaining your dim weights.  

Automated Solutions

To ease the burden of manually calculating DIM weight and reduce the chances of human error, customers can leverage automation. Integrating shipping software that incorporates dimension measuring capabilities can streamline the entire process, providing real-time calculations and ensuring accurate billing.

Automated solutions can also help customers compare shipping rates between different carriers, allowing them to choose the most cost-effective option for their specific needs. This level of efficiency and transparency not only enhances customer satisfaction but also boosts overall productivity.

dim weight scale

How Dimensioners Benefit Shippers

When shippers use an automatic dimensioner, they experience fewer invoice corrections, which saves time and money. Shippers can also use a Transportation Management System (TMS) to provide an eBOL with accurate data from a Legal for Trade dimensioner and scale save on freight rates. A TMS offers the carrier data transparency before pickup to help with load planning.

Accurate weights and dimensions are essential to ensure your invoice will match the original carrier quote. Because LTL carriers also rely on Legal for Trade measurement systems, using freight dimensioning systems in your facility can help everyone ensure correct freight classification.

By choosing a dimensioning system that includes high-resolution cameras, you will have images of freight as it leaves your facility, documenting its condition and verifying it was properly packaged and wrapped. This will allow you to hold your LTL carriers accountable for any damage to your freight.

Rice Lake Weighing Systems developed iDimension® Flex Series automatic dimensioners to help shippers prevent invoice corrections. A Legal for Trade dimensioner and scale is the best way to safeguard against reweighs, reclasses and unexpected chargebacks from LTL carriers. The economical iDimension Flex is designed for shippers—it is affordable, easy to install and maintain, and has a full integration toolkit to connect with your network.

The iDimension Flex is designed to fit nearly any shipping environment. It can be installed as a free-standing unit or suspended from the ceiling and mounted over a shipping scale, conveyor or pallet stretch wrapper. With the iDimension Flex, you can easily organize your shipping department to weigh, wrap and dimension freight in one efficient step. The iDimension Flex accurately measures your outbound freight, simplifying eBOL processes and increasing the trust LTL carriers have in your measurements.

Accurate Measuring – A Necessity

To overcome the dimensional measurement challenge, customers must prioritize accurate measuring of their shipping boxes and pallets. Investing in a reliable measuring tool, such as a tape measure or a dimensional weight calculator, can save them from unnecessary expenses. It is vital to measure the length, width, and height of the package, ensuring accuracy to the nearest inch or centimeter.

Some freight companies may also apply additional surcharges if the dimensions are not provided correctly, leading to further complications and financial strain for the customer. Hence, attentiveness to accurate measurements is crucial in avoiding billing disputes and promoting transparent shipping practices.

Packaging Optimization

Aside from accurate measurements, optimizing packaging is another way to navigate the challenges presented by dimensional weight. Selecting appropriate box sizes, eliminating excess void fill materials, and securing the contents efficiently can significantly impact DIM weight calculations.

Customers should consider using custom-sized boxes that snugly fit their products, reducing the amount of empty space within the package. Additionally, choosing lightweight but sturdy packaging materials can also help strike a balance between protection and weight reduction.

This is something we have worked on over the past few years and it has absolutely saved us (and our customers) money.

Collaboration and Communication

To enhance the shipping process, customers must establish clear lines of communication with their freight companies. Inquiring about their dimensional weight calculation methods, applicable surcharges, and any other cost-related factors will enable customers to make informed decisions and prevent unwelcome surprises in the final billing.

Additionally, maintaining open channels of communication allows customers to negotiate better shipping terms, especially for regular or bulk shipments. Building a healthy partnership with the freight company can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes, fostering a smoother shipping experience overall.

Education and Awareness

An essential aspect of overcoming the challenges of shipping boxes and pallets is fostering education and awareness among customers. Many individuals and businesses are still unfamiliar with the concept of DIM weight and its implications. Providing relevant information and resources on websites, customer portals, and through customer service representatives can empower clients to take the necessary steps to optimize their shipping processes.

Freight companies can also conduct workshops, webinars, or tutorials to educate their customers on best practices for measuring, packing, and shipping items. In the long run, informed customers will not only benefit from cost savings but also contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping inefficiencies.

As a society, we probably ship more boxes and pallets than ever before. It’s important to find various ways to reduce the cost of moving these boxes from point A to point B.  By embracing accurate measuring techniques, optimizing packaging, fostering communication, educating themselves, and adopting automated solutions, customers can navigate these challenges effectively. In doing so, they can not only reduce unnecessary expenses and billing disputes but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient shipping industry.

The Peril of Monopoly: The Dangers of Choosing an Industrial Scale Provider who Basically Only Recommends One Scale Brand

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In the world of industry and commerce, precision measurement and weighing accuracy are paramount, making industrial scales and laboratory balances an indispensable tool in many industries. When it comes to selecting a reliable provider for your weighing needs, many local businesses seek convenience by opting for a one-stop-shop that sells scales and offers calibration and service support. And, often folks search for old and familiar scale brand they may have heard of years ago.

However, one mistake that some customers make involves choosing a scale supplier who essentially is only offering one brand of scale 99% of the time. This cozy relationship with a sole brand may appear convenient on the surface, but it comes with a range of potential pitfalls that businesses should be wary of. Do the terms Protected Territories, Limited Competition, and High Prices sound familiar? 

This article explores the perils of such an arrangement and underscores the importance of keeping an open mind when it comes to selecting a local industrial scale provider in your area.

1. Limited Product Options:

Relying on an industrial scale provider who predominantly offers one brand of scales leaves your business with limited options. Each industry has unique requirements, and no single scale brand can cater to the diverse needs of every enterprise. By restricting yourself to just one brand of scales, you risk overlooking better-suited alternatives that might provide more accurate readings, advanced features, or even more cost-effectiveness. Opting to work with a local scale company with a wide array of scale options ensures you can find the perfect match for your business requirements.

2. Bias and Unreliable Recommendations:

The inherent conflict of interest in exclusively recommending one scale brand raises questions about the objectivity and credibility of the provider’s suggestions. Is the recommendation driven by the best interest of the client, or is it motivated by financial gains or meeting sales quotas from promoting a particular brand? A biased recommendation might lead to investing in scales that are not truly suitable for your operations, leading to suboptimal performance, increased maintenance costs, or even safety hazards.

3. Lack of Customization and Product Flexibility:

Industrial operations vary widely, and a one-size-fits-all approach to scales simply won’t suffice. By relying on a local scale provider who predominantly deals with one brand, you may face limitations in customizing the scales to match your specific requirements. Customization could involve factors such as scale capacity, platform size, and specialized features, which are critical to ensuring optimal performance and efficient workflow.

There could be situations where your number one scale brand might be a good choice for the scale platform but the scale controller might be a different brand. Is the scale company willing to use another brand?

4. Inadequate Support and Service:

Calibration and regular maintenance are vital to the accurate functioning of industrial scales. Choosing a local scale sales and service provider that primarily deals with one scale brand may limit your access to reliable service and support. They may lack the expertise to handle other scale brands effectively, resulting in subpar calibration or repairs. In contrast, a diversified local scale provider (like Central Carolina Scale) is more likely to have a skilled team capable of servicing a wide range of scale models efficiently.

5. Competitive Pricing:

Monopoly situations can also sometimes lead to inflated pricing. With limited options and no direct competition, the scale provider may not have any incentives to offer competitive prices. As a result, your business might end up paying more for a scale that could be obtained at a better price elsewhere.

high quality scales and weighing equipment

Final Thoughts:

Choosing an industrial scale provider is a crucial decision that directly impacts the efficiency and accuracy of your operations. While the convenience of an all-in-one provider might be tempting, the dangers of opting for one who predominantly deals with a single brand of scales cannot be ignored. The limited product options, protected territories limiting competition, biased recommendations, and inadequate support could all hamper your business’s growth and success.

Instead, we recommend working with a scale company like ours. At Central Carolina Scale, we have good working relationships with many different scale manufacturers. If a customer approaches us and asks for a product or solution for their weighing, we are going to base our product recommendations off things like past success, proven products, overall value, etc… We typically provide multiple reputable choices to customers to consider.

In our experience, rarely is one scale manufacturer the best choice for everything. Some manufacturer really good truck scales. Some manufacturer easy to use digital weight indicators. In fact, we often provide scale systems to customers that have one brand of scale platform and a different brand of digital weight indicator. Most of the time we do that because we’re trying to provide the customer with the best overall scale equipment for their needs.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Calibration for Industrial Floor Scales

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Industrial floor scales are essential tools in various industries and environments. From warehouse and manufacturing environments to metal recycling and food banks… Accurate weight measurements are critical for safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. However, like any other equipment, industrial floor scales require regular maintenance and calibration to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Here are some reasons why…

Compliance with Regulations

In most industries, there are regulatory requirements that mandate the use of calibrated and well-maintained weighing equipment. In commercial applications, scales need to be tested by the state and be within tolerance.  Compliance with such regulations is critical.

Accurate Weighing Results

Industrial floor scales are designed to measure the weight of heavy or bulky items accurately. However, over time, factors such as wear and tear, exposure to environmental factors, and shock or impact can affect their accuracy. Regular testing, maintenance and calibration can help identify and correct such issues, ensuring that the scales provide accurate weighing results consistently.

Safety in the Workplace

Industrial floor scales are often used to weigh large and heavy items, such as pallets, drums, or machinery components. If the scales are not calibrated or maintained correctly, they can produce inaccurate results that could lead to safety hazards. For example, if an employee overloads a pallet because the scale shows an incorrect weight, it could result in accidents or injuries. Regular maintenance and calibration help ensure that the scales are working correctly and prevent such safety hazards.

Industrial Floor Scale with Ramp

Cost Savings

Regular maintenance and calibration of industrial floor scales can help prevent costly repairs or break downs in the near future. Small issues that are left unaddressed can lead to more significant problems that require more expensive repairs or even replacement of the equipment. By conducting regular maintenance and calibration, you can sometimes identify and correct small issues before they become more severe, saving your business money in the long run. For example, many times a small cut in a cable can be seen and either removed or fixed. Or, perhaps a load cell foot has been bent or damaged and can easily be replaced before it leads to inaccurate weights.

Improved Productivity

Industrial floor scales play a critical role in many warehouse and manufacturing operations, such as inventory management, quality control, and shipping and receiving. If the scales are not working correctly, it can lead to delays, errors, or inefficiencies that can affect productivity. Regular maintenance and calibration help ensure that the scales are working correctly and improve productivity.

Regular maintenance and calibration are essential for industrial floor scales. How frequent the scales are checked should be discussed with your trusted scale company. Often, the service intervals are based on how often the scales are used and how valuable the products being weighed actually are. If you need some assistance with buying a floor scale or with your floor scale repairs and calibration, please call us (919) 776-7737 or complete the RFQ form on our website.

Advantages of using a Pallet Jack with Built In Scale in Warehouse

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Pallet jacks with built-in scales have become increasingly popular in warehouse and industrial settings over the years. Pallet truck scales offer several advantages over traditional floor scales. Here are some benefits of using a pallet jack with a built-in scale versus using a stationary floor scale.

Increased Efficiency

Pallet jacks with built-in scales are designed to save time and improve efficiency. With a built-in scale, you can weigh and move pallets in a single step, eliminating the need for multiple trips to find the nearest floor scale in a busy freight and logistics center. This can reduce the time and labor required to move and weigh pallets, which can increase productivity and reduce labor costs.

pallet jack with built in scale

Portability

Pallet jacks with built-in scales are highly portable and can be easily moved around a warehouse or facility. This allows you to weigh pallets at the location where they are loaded, reducing the need to move the pallets to a central location for weighing. This can save time and reduce the risk of damage to the pallets during transportation.

Reduced Floor Space Requirements

A pallet jack scale requires less floor space compared to a floor scale. Floor scales can take up a significant amount of floor space and require a dedicated area for weighing. This becomes even more obvious if you need to add a ramp or ramps to the floor scale!  In contrast, a pallet jack with a built-in scale can be used in the same space as a regular pallet jack, making it an ideal solution for facilities with limited floor space.

Reduced Equipment Costs

Using a pallet jack with a built-in scale can theoretically reduce equipment costs in the long run. Instead of purchasing separate equipment for moving and weighing pallets, you can invest in a single pallet jack with a built-in scale. This can save money on equipment purchases, maintenance, and repairs.

Improved Safety

Using a pallet jack with a built-in scale can also improve safety in the workplace. Floor scales can be difficult to access and require workers to bend down and lift heavy objects, which can lead to injuries. In contrast, a pallet jack with a built-in scale is designed to be ergonomic and easy to use, reducing the risk of injury to workers.

Final Thoughts

Pallet jack scales can certainly be a good option for some customers. The same is true for customers looking at forklift scales. In most businesses, it’s a good idea to utilize several of these products together to make sure you have a backup, just in case a scale has failed or is down for routine maintenance. For example, you have a pallet jack scale and you have a floor scale with ramp.

A pallet jack with a built-in scale offers several benefits over traditional floor scales. These benefits include increased efficiency, portability, reduced floor space requirements, possible reduced equipment costs, and improved safety. If you are looking to improve the efficiency and accuracy of weighing pallets in your facility, a pallet jack with a built-in scale may be the ideal solution for your needs. Be sure to contact our sales office by calling (919) 776-7737 or click the RFQ button on our website to get in touch with us.

How Much Do Floor Scales Cost?

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This is a fairly popular question. How much does a floor scale cost?  Potential customers may swap the phrase pallet scale or platform scales etc… but the question is basically the same. 

Floor Scale Prices

Floor Scales are typically designed to weigh a pallet. Therefore, they’re usually in the 3’x3′ to 5’x5′ range.  You often see pallet scales near a loading dock or in a warehouse. They’re often used to weigh pallets before and after shipping. The maximum weighing capacities for these warehouse scales is usually around 10,000 pounds.

There are larger floor sales available in all kinds of sizes like 5×7, 4×6 etc… with 20,000 lb capacity for example.  But these need to be quoted for current prices.  For this article we will mainly focus on the standard 4×4 5000 lb floor scale.

how much does a floor scale cost?

Floor Scale Categories

We like to sort our floor scales into four different categories. The categories are based on quality and many years of selling and working on industrial floor scales.

Industrial Quality

The first category is the top of the line Industrial Floor scale.  For example, a B-Tek Clydesdale or Rice Lake Roughdeck would fall into that category. You won’t find a lightweight import floor scale in this category. A 4×4 5000 pound capacity scale in this category is probably going to cost somewhere around $2700 to $3600. These scales are typically built tougher with more steel and a thicker top deck plate. And these high quality 4×4 scales usually weigh anywhere from 30 to 90 pounds more than lesser, often imported, 4×4 floor scales.

The second category is slightly below the top group. These are scales that are a little lighter or not quite as industrial “tough” as the first category. These are still really good scales though. We might place the Digi Summit 3000 in this group along with the Pennsylvania 6600, and the B-Tek 4 Square.  A 4×4 5000 pound capacity scale in this group is likely going to be somewhere between $1400 and $2500

Affordable Floor Scales

The third category is the light industrial floor scale. In this group, we would likely include the Inscale 7620 and Weighsouth floor scale, for example.  A 4×4 5000 pound capacity scale in this group is likely going be somewhere around $1000 to $1400. These are typically imported scales that are lighter weight but supported by our domestic suppliers. Continue reading →

How to Choose the Right Industrial Floor Scale for Your Business

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Industrial floor scales are an essential tool for many businesses that require accurate and reliable weight measurements. These heavy duty scales are designed to withstand the  demands of industrial environments and are commonly used in manufacturing, shipping and receiving, and warehouse operations.

However, with a variety of options available in the market, choosing the right industrial floor scale for your business can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider when choosing an industrial floor scale to ensure that you make the right choice for your business needs.

Pallet Scale with Ramp

Capacity and Accuracy

One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing an industrial floor scale is its maximum capacity and accuracy. The capacity of a platform scale refers to the maximum weight it can measure, while accuracy refers to how precise the measurements are. It is important to choose a warehouse scale with a capacity that meets your specific needs. If you are weighing heavy equipment or pallets, you will need a scale with a higher capacity. In addition, the scale’s accuracy should be sufficient for your application. Some common floor scale capacities include: 2500 x 0.5 lb, 5000 x 1 lb, 10,000 x 2 lb, & 20,000 x 5 lb

Platform Sizes and Material

Another crucial factor to consider is the platform size and platform material of the scale deck. The platform size should be large enough to accommodate the items you will be weighing, and the material should be ideal for the application. Common platform materials for industrial floor scales include painted steel or stainless steel. For standard industrial weighing, most customers choose painted steel. However, for food processing or washdown applications, stainless steel is often utilized. Popular platform sizes include: 3×3, 4×4, 5×5, and 5×7.

Environment and Hazards

When choosing an industrial floor scale, you need to consider the environment and hazards that your scale will be exposed to. If your business operates in a hazardous environment, such as a chemical plant or refinery, you will need to choose a scale that is suitable for use in such environments. The scale should be made from materials that can withstand the hazards, and it should be equipped with safety features, such as explosion-proof components and anti-skid platforms, to prevent accidents.

send scale weight to computer

Connectivity and Data Management

In today’s digital age, many industrial scales come equipped with advanced connectivity features and data management capabilities. These features can help you to streamline your business operations and improve productivity. For instance, scales with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity can send data or store data on a usb drive allowing you to track and analyze weight measurements. Label printers can also be configured to print things like time and date along with weight data.

Overall Value

Finally, when choosing an industrial floor scale, you need to consider your budget and how you plan to use the scale. As we have discussed before here in our learning center and on our YouTube channel, floor scales are available in light industrial design or industrial design.  The difference is often not noticeable to the eye. But, a deeper look at the specs will often show the key differences.

platform scale

While it may be tempting to choose a low-cost scale from China, it may not be the best long-term investment for your business. Cheaper scales usually have less durability, and they may need to be repaired or replaced more frequently, leading to additional costs in the long run. On the other hand, investing in a high-quality industrial floor scale may have a higher initial cost, but it can provide a better ROI in the long run by providing more accurate and reliable weight measurements and lasting much longer.

Choosing the right industrial floor scale for your business requires careful consideration of your specific needs and requirements. You may be fine purchasing one of our lower cost floor scales. On the other hand, in your particular industry, you may be best served by purchasing one of our toughest floor scales available.

One of the first steps we recommend is contacting your trusted scale provider to discuss your needs and what you are looking to accomplish. You can reach our sales department by calling (919) 776-7737 or clicking the RFQ button on our website.  By taking into account all the things we have mentioned above, you can make an informed decision that will help you improve your business operations, increase efficiency, and achieve your business goals.

What Makes a Weighing Scale Better Quality than Another?

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We get this question all the time and it’s a fair question. What makes one weighing scale better quality than another? Sure, it can be worded a little differently like why is one scale priced so much higher than the other, even though they look identical?  The answers can vary from scale type to scale type.

Why Does One Scale Cost So Much More Than Another?  

So why does one scale cost so much more than another?  Here are a few reasons.

  • The country the scale was manufactured in
  • The quality of the components inside the scale
  • The construction of the scale itself
  • A lithium ion battery vs. a lead acid battery
  • IP68 enclosure vs. IP65 enclosure
  • Stainless Steel enclosure vs. painted steel or plastic enclosure
  • The warranty of the item
  • The reputation of the scale manufacturer 

Probably no better example exists on this subject than floor scales. We have floor scales that we offer that basically look very similar to one another that are essentially $2000 different on price. How do you explain that difference?  Well, let’s try to do just that below.

industrial floor scaleOur industrial floor scale is a 4×4 with 5000 LB capacity. NTEP approved. Stainless Weight Indicator with battery.  It weighs approximately 300 pounds.

light industrial floor scale

Our light industrial floor scale is a 4×4 with 5000 LB capacity. NTEP approved. Stainless Weight Indicator with battery.  It weighs approximately 220 pounds.  

Essentially, that eighty pound difference in the physical weight of the scale platform is one big reason there’s approximately $2000 difference in price.

So, is the more expensive scale worth it?  The answer is…. it depends on your weighing application.

If you are a metal recycler for example, then you likely want good quality scales that are built tough and can handle the daily abuse that weighing equipment is going to take in that environment. The last thing you want in that environment is a scale platform that can’t handle the thousands of pounds of weight. So in this example, yes the additional cost is likely worth it when you average out the years of service the scale will provide.

However, if you’re a shipping warehouse that weighs a few 800 pound pallets everyday, then you probably don’t need the more expensive scale. 

Ultimately, this is where discussing your particular weighing needs with your scale sales person is a smart thing. Give us a call or fill out the RFQ form on our website.  

Better Quality Weighing Equipment or Low Priced Scales? 

Really, there are numerous factors that can determine the overall quality of a weighing scale. Some of the most important factors include:

  1. Accuracy: A high-quality weighing scale should be able to accurately measure the weight of an object. This is often determined by the scale’s sensitivity and resolution. We recommend choosing NTEP approved weighing equipment for reputable scale manufacturers for the best results.

  2. Repeatability: A good weighing scale should be able to consistently produce the same weight reading for the same object. Often with lower quality items, this can become a problem.

  3. Construction: A good scale is designed to last for years of service. This is where you need to discuss your weighing needs with your sales person and determine if industrial or light industrial weighing equipment makes sense for you. 

  4. Resolution: The resolution of a scale refers to the smallest weight that the scale can measure. A scale with high resolution will be able to measure small weights more accurately than a scale with low resolution. This often comes into play with counting scales and lab balances.

  5. Stability: A high-quality scale should be stable and not drift or fluctuate over time. Once again better quality items tend to be more stable and consistent.

  6. Durability: A scale that is built to last will be of higher quality than one that is prone to breaking or malfunctioning. We recommend choosing reputable scale brands with a good reputation in the scale industry vs. cheap imported scales.

  7. Ease of use: A scale that is easy to use, with clear instructions and a user-friendly interface, will be better than one that is difficult to operate. Scales that are easy to use is a good thing. Don’t just think about you or the one employee who is using the scale. Also think about the person who has to fill in and learn how to use the scale.

  8. Customer support: A scale manufacturer that provides good customer support and stands behind their product is likely to offer higher quality products. We have several reputable scale manufacturers who offer quality weighing equipment that we’ve sold and serviced for many years.

Ultimately what it really comes down to in our opinion is communication between the buyer or procurement manager and the scale salesperson. That seems simple. But in today’s point and click and add to shopping cart world that we live in, it’s really important to be on the same page. When you ask the question what makes one weighing scale better quality than another, you need to discuss this subject with your scale sales person, who can assist you with appropriate product choices that will best fit what you’re trying to do.