Why Use a NTEP Certified Price Computing Scale at the Farmers Market in 2023?

Have you ever wondered if the scale at your local farmers market is providing accurate measurements? You’re not alone.

Proper weighing is crucial for both buyers and sellers, and accuracy is the key to ensuring fair transactions. In recent years, the use of NTEP certified price computing scales has become increasingly popular (or required) at farmers markets and other retail settings. But why use a NTEP certified price computing scale? NTEP certification is important, and how can it benefit both businesses and customers?

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of NTEP certification, its advantages, and various applications. We will also provide guidance on selecting the right NTEP certified scale for your specific needs. So, let us embark on a journey to discover the significance of NTEP digital scales in today’s farmers markets and commercial settings.

Quick Summary

  • NTEP certification ensures accuracy, reliability and legal compliance of scales used in trade applications.

  • Legal for trade status increases customer trust leading to increased sales and satisfaction.

  • Selecting an NTEP certified scale requires careful consideration of capacity, platform size, label printer capabilities & maintenance/calibration requirements.

Understanding NTEP Certification

 

price computing scale for weighing frozen yogurt by the ounce

Trade scales play an essential role in the commerce of goods, as they determine the price based on weight. For this reason, it is crucial that these scales are accurate, reliable, and meet certain legal requirements. This is where the National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) comes into the picture, ensuring that scales used in trade applications are compliant with the legal for trade requirements.

NTEP-certified scales undergo a rigorous testing procedure and are only approved if they meet the necessary legal requirements. These scales must be calibrated using certified weights and serviced by certified scale technicians to ensure their continued accuracy and reliability.

By obtaining a NTEP Certificate of Conformance Number (CoC#), a scale is granted legal for trade status, encompassing multiple weighing capacities and platform sizes.

Legal for Trade Requirements

The legal for trade designation ensures that a scale adheres to the criteria set forth by the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM), which evaluates the scale and grants NTEP certification upon successful evaluation. This certification process guarantees that the scale is suitable for use in applications involving custody transfers, selling, purchasing, exchanging, and establishing costs of services. Utilizing a price computing scale at farmer’s markets is of great importance as it guarantees the accuracy and dependability of the scales, as well as their conformity to commercial regulations and legal for trade status, thereby engendering consumer trust.

Legal for trade requirements not only ensure that the scale is accurate and reliable, but also protect businesses and customers from potential issues stemming from inaccurate measurements. By adhering to these requirements, a scale is granted legal for trade status, signifying its adherence to the accuracy, repeatability, and linearity standards.

What is a NTEP Certificate of Conformance Number (CoC#)?

A NTEP Certificate of Conformance Number (CoC#) is a unique identifier assigned to a scale that has met the requirements of the NTEP program. This certificate confirms that the digital scale complies with the requirements of the Handbook 44, a guide outlining the standards and regulations for weighing and measuring devices in the United States.

Obtaining a CoC# not only signifies that the scale has been rigorously tested and found to be accurate and reliable, but also ensures that it is compliant with legal regulations.

A NTEP certified scale with a valid CoC# can be used with confidence in various applications, including farmers markets, retail shops, and food service establishments, where accurate measurements are crucial.

Advantages of NTEP Certified Price Computing Scales

cas price computing scale

NTEP certified price computing scales offer an array of benefits that extend beyond mere compliance with legal requirements. These scales are known for their accuracy, reliability, and ability to adhere to commercial regulations, which ultimately lead to increased customer confidence and satisfaction.

In addition, NTEP certified scales are designed with user-friendly features that save time and effort. For instance, price computing scales come with built-in bright and easy-to-read displays that allow for instant price calculations. By investing in an NTEP certified scale, businesses can enhance their operations and ensure that customers receive the appropriate price for the items they purchase.

Accuracy and Reliability of Produce Scales

When it comes to weighing produce, accuracy and reliability are of utmost importance. Most trade scales are accurate to within 0.01 lb, ensuring that customers receive the correct amount of product for the price they pay. NTEP certified scales, in particular, are known for their dependability, as they are designed to withstand frequent use without complications.

By using an NTEP certified scale, businesses can guarantee the accuracy and reliability of their weighing results, providing customers with peace of mind and building trust in the process. With accurate measurements and compliance, both buyers and sellers can be confident that they are engaging in fair transactions.

Compliance with Commercial Regulations

Adhering to commercial regulations is a key aspect of using certified scales. In the United States, scales used to determine the net weight of products sold or distributed in commerce must be tested for accuracy regularly, and in most states, businesses are legally required to use a commercial scale that is approved and legal for trade.

By complying with these regulations, businesses can ensure the accuracy and reliability of their scales, guaranteeing that customers are neither overcharged nor undercharged for their purchases. Additionally, consistent adherence to commercial regulations can help businesses avoid potential difficulties resulting from inaccurate measurements and non-compliant scales.

Legal for Trade Status leads to Enhanced Customer Trust

Achieving legal for trade status through NTEP certification not only ensures that a scale meets the necessary accuracy and reliability requirements, but also plays a vital role in building customer trust. Customers are more likely to purchase from a vendor they trust, and this trust is established when they know that the scales used are precise, reliable, and legal for trade.

In this context, NTEP certified price computing scales offer a clear advantage, as they are designed to meet the stringent requirements of NCWM. Customers who are in the market for a new trade scale would be wise to shop for genuine legal for trade scales. Unfortunately in our current global market, there are non-ntep scales available which are much cheaper. However, often these scales are low quality and weigh inconsistently.

By investing in a genuine legal for trade price computing scale, businesses can enhance customer trust, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction.

Applications of NTEP Certified Price Computing Scales

legal for trade produce scale

NTEP certified price computing scales can be used in a wide variety of settings, making them a versatile and valuable addition to any business that relies on accurate weight measurements. Some common applications of these scales include candy stores, retail shops, food service establishments, yogurt per ounce sales, and farmers market produce stands.

In each of these applications, accuracy and reliability are of paramount importance, and NTEP approved legal for trade scales can deliver on both fronts. By utilizing a trade price computing scale, businesses can ensure compliance with commercial regulations, guarantee accurate measurements, and ultimately enhance customer trust and satisfaction.

Candy Stores and Retail Shops

In candy stores and retail shops, where products are often sold by weight, using a certified scale is essential for ensuring accurate measurements and legal compliance. These trade price computing scales provide customers with precise and reliable measurements, allowing them to receive the correct quantity of product for the price they pay.

Moreover, by employing NTEP legal for trade produce scales in these settings, businesses can protect themselves from potential legal issues arising from inaccurate measurements. This not only helps maintain customer trust, but also contributes to the overall success and growth of the business.

Food Service and Yogurt Per Ounce Sales

In food service establishments and yogurt per ounce sales, accurate measurement is crucial for pricing and portion control. NTEP approved Legal for trade farmers market scales can ensure that customers receive the correct amount of product for the price they pay, while also adhering to legal regulations.

By using NTEP approved scales in these settings, businesses can guarantee accurate measurements and pricing, and build customer trust in the process. This not only leads to increased customer satisfaction, but also contributes to the overall success and growth of the business.

Farmers Market Produce Stands

Farmers market produce stands rely heavily on accurate weight measurements to determine the price of their products. By utilizing certified produce scales, these stands can ensure that customers receive the correct quantity of strawberries or whatever type of produce for the price they pay while also adhering to commercial regulations.

The use of NTEP scales in farmers market produce not only guarantees accurate measurements but also fosters customer trust and satisfaction. With enhanced trust, customers are more likely to return and recommend the produce stand to others, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of the business.

Selecting the Right NTEP Legal for Trade Scale

farmers market scales for selling fruit by the pound

When selecting the right trade scale for your business, there are several factors to consider. These include capacity and platform size, label printer capabilities, and maintenance and calibration requirements. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a scale that meets your specific needs and ensures accurate measurements, compliance with legal requirements, and enhanced customer trust.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into these factors, providing valuable insights and guidance that will help you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal digital scales for your business.

Capacity and Platform Size Considerations

Capacity and platform size are important factors to consider when selecting a produce scale. Capacity refers to the maximum weight the trade scale can handle, while platform size refers to the size of the weighing platform. Ensuring that the scale’s capacity and platform size are suitable for the items being weighed will guarantee accurate and reliable weighing results.

Certified scales come in a wide range of capacities such as 15 lb, 30 lb, or 60 lb. Platform sizes are often in the 12″x14″ range. Good choices for small retail shops to large higher volume settings. By carefully considering these factors, you can select a scale that meets the unique requirements of your business.

Label Printer Capabilities

torrey lpc-40l

Label printer capabilities are another important aspect to consider when selecting trade price computing scales.

NTEP scales with label printer capabilities can be especially beneficial in retail settings, such as candy stores, food service establishments, and farmers markets, where accurate labeling is crucial for ensuring customer satisfaction and compliance with legal requirements. By investing in a scale with label printer capabilities, you can streamline your operations and provide a better experience for your customers.

An additional area to consider is battery power. Most customers looking to purchase legal for trade price computing scales often choose a scale with rechargeable battery. If you prefer alkaline batteries, your choices may be limited.

Maintenance and Calibration

nist class f test weight

Regular maintenance and calibration are essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of any certified scale. Calibration involves adjusting a scale to guarantee that it provides precise readings, while maintenance encompasses various tasks that help prevent costly repairs or malfunctions.

By prioritizing scale maintenance and calibration, businesses can prolong the life of their NTEP certified scales and ensure consistent accuracy and reliability. This not only helps maintain customer trust, but also prevents potential legal issues arising from inaccurate measurements and non-compliant scales.

Final Summary

NTEP certified price computing scales offer numerous advantages for businesses and customers alike. By ensuring accuracy, reliability, and compliance with commercial regulations, these scales contribute to enhanced customer trust and overall business success. With a wide range of applications, from candy stores and retail shops to food service establishments and farmers market produce stands, NTEP certified scales are a valuable addition to any business that relies on accurate weight measurements.

As you consider investing in a NTEP approved legal for trade price computing scale, keep in mind the factors discussed in this blog post, such as capacity and platform size, label printer capabilities, and maintenance and calibration requirements. By selecting the right scale for your unique needs, you can ensure accurate measurements, legal compliance, and enhanced customer trust, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an NTEP scale?

Based on this information, it is recommended that you obtain an NTEP approved scale if you are buying, selling, or charging based on weight within the United States.

Therefore, yes, you do need an NTEP scale in order to comply with legal standards.

What does NTEP mean for scales?

NTEP provides a certification process for weighing and measuring devices, such as scales, ensuring that they meet stringent national standards for accuracy and repeatability. This ensures that any scale bearing the NTEP mark is reliable and accurate, providing piece of mind to consumers.

Does NTEP mean Legal for trade?

Often the terms NTEP approved and legal for trade are used interchangeably.  Yes – NTEP does mean legal for trade.

How do I know if my scale is Legal for trade?

To determine if your scale is Legal for trade, look for an accuracy class designation such as CoC# class III. This should be clearly labeled on the serial plate of the device. Make sure to thoroughly check before using the scale in any kind of business setting. If you’re in doubt you can check the NCWM website for a list of NTEP devices.

If you are in the market for a set of our commercial scales be sure to contact the sales department by completing the RFQ form or by calling (919) 776-7737.

How to Choose the Right Battery-Powered Price Computing Scale for Your Farmers Market Business

If you sell fruits and vegetables at the farmers market, then you probably realize having a reliable and accurate price computing scale is crucial to profitable selling and customer confidence.

However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which battery powered price computing scale is the right fit for your needs. Here are some factors to consider.

Produce Scale Capacity

The first thing to consider when choosing a battery powered price computing scale is the capacity you need. Think about the types of products you sell and the heaviest items you need to weigh. You’ll want to choose a retail scale with a capacity that exceeds your heaviest item to ensure accuracy and reliability. Popular scale capacity choices include 15 lb, 30 lb, or 60 lb.

Legal for Trade Scale Accuracy

Scale accuracy is essential when it comes to weighing produce for the farmers market. Look for a produce scale that has a high level of accuracy and precision, preferably with a readability of 0.01 lb or 0.02 lb. A legal for trade scale with a good accuracy will ensure that your customers receive the right amount of produce for their money. And make sure the scale you choose is 1. A reputable brand and 2. Actually NTEP approved with a CoC#.  There are quite a few non-ntep scales out there in the market currently.  

NTEP scales

Scales That Are Portable 

As a seller at the farmers market, you’ll likely need to transport your price computing scale to different locations. Look for a portable scale that is lightweight and easy to carry, with built-in handles or a carrying case for easy transportation. A compact design is also beneficial, as it will take up less space in your vehicle and booth.

Scale with Long Battery Life

Since you’ll be using a battery-powered price computing scale, you’ll need to consider the battery life. Look for a scale with a long battery life, so you don’t have to worry about changing batteries frequently during market days. Most farmers market scales have a 6V lead acid rechargeable battery these days.  Continue reading

The Importance of Accuracy and Precision in Battery-Powered Price Computing Scales for Farmers Markets

Farmers markets are a crucial part of the agriculture industry. These weighing devices provide a direct channel for farmers to sell their fresh produce and other agricultural products to customers in a local community. To ensure the smooth operation of these markets, it is important to use accurate and precise “legal for trade” battery-powered price computing scales.

NTEP scales

Accuracy and precision are two terms that are often used interchangeably but have different meanings when it comes to scales. Accuracy refers to how close the measured value is to the true value, while precision refers to the consistency of the measurements. In other words, a scale can be accurate but not precise or precise but not accurate. When it comes to price computing scales for farmers markets, both accuracy and precision are important.

Accuracy and Precision in Battery-Powered Price Computing Scales for Farmers Markets is often overlooked when you are dealing with cheap no-name scales from China. Another key point to consider is purchasing “legal for trade” weighing equipment from reputable scale manufacturers. It is not very hard to find price calculating scales online that are non-ntep. They are often priced below $100 and “appear” to be a great value at first glance.  However, these scales are not legal for trade and should not be used in commercial weighing applications.

One of the main reasons why accuracy is important in legal for trade price computing scales is to ensure that farmers are paid fairly for their produce. Farmers work hard to grow high-quality fruits and vegetables, and they deserve to be paid for their efforts. A scale that is inaccurate can result in errors which could lead to farmers being paid less than what their produce is worth which can have a negative impact on their business. Or it could lead to the customer not getting what they paid for. An accurate legal for trade scale ensures that farmers are paid fairly and can continue to invest in their farms and produce high-quality products.

Precision is also important in price computing scales because it ensures consistency in the measurements. Inconsistent measurements can lead to confusion and frustration for both farmers and customers. Customers may feel cheated if they receive less produce than what they paid for, and farmers may lose business if customers do not trust the measurements. A precise certified scale helps to make sure the weighing is consistent, which can build trust and loyalty with customers and ensure a successful farmers market business.

 

Legal for Trade battery-powered price computing scales have become increasingly popular in farmers markets due to their portability and ease of use. These produce scales are designed to be used on the go. Temperature changes, vibrations from transportation, and other factors can affect the accuracy and precision of the scale. Therefore, it is essential to invest in a high-quality battery-powered price computing scale that is designed to withstand these challenges. It’s also a great idea to have your farmers market scales checked either by the state or your trusted scale company at least once a year. 

When selecting a battery-powered price computing scale, it is important to consider the key features. One key feature is the capacity and readability of the scale. If you’re weighing pumpkins or watermelons, then you may want a 60 lb capacity scale. Conversely, if you’re weighing frozen yogurt by the ounce or buckets of strawberries, a 15 lb or 30 lb capacity scale might work best. 

The design and build of the scale can also affect its accuracy and precision. A scale that is poorly designed or made with low-quality materials can lead to inaccurate measurements. It is important to select a scale that is made with durable materials and has a stable base.

In addition to the features of the scale, it is also important to consider the calibration and maintenance of the scale. Calibration refers to the process of ensuring that the scale is measuring accurately. 

Maintenance is also essential for ensuring accurate and precise measurements. Regular cleaning of the scale and its components can prevent debris or other factors from affecting the measurements. It is also important to replace batteries and other components as needed to ensure the scale is functioning properly. Purchasing a heavy duty carrying case can be a good idea to store the scale or to use during transport to/from the farmers market.

Be sure to contact our sales department for buying advice and product recommendations. You can reach us by calling (919) 776-7737 or click the RFQ button to obtain information and any price quotes you may need.

 

Top Rated Price Computing Scales (Legal for Trade) for the Farmers Market in 2024

It’s almost spring time and it’s a time when everyone starts thinking about the farmer’s market. Can’t you almost taste the fresh strawberries? But, if you’re selling your fresh fruits and vegetables to customers, then you should use a legal for trade price computing scale. Updated for 2024.

Which produce scale should I buy?

Well, we have a couple of suggestions! Chances are you’ve seen one or maybe both of these top rated commercial scales at the farmers market before. Our top two choices for best price computing scales for the farmers market feature: rechargeable battery power, displays on the front and back, and both are legal for trade.

The Rice Lake RS130 and RS160 line of retail scales is one of our top picks for best price computing scales. The RS-130 and RS-160 produce scales are the ultimate choice for simple price computing applications, delivering unmatched convenience and accuracy. The RS series provide one button operation with weight displays and either pounds kilograms or ounces. These scales also allow you to enter a dollar amount and the scale will assist you with calculating the correct change. These scales are available in your choice of either a 30lb or 60lb capacity and with or without the tower display.

Best Price Computing Scales on the Market Today

We feel the the CAS S2000 Junior commercial scale is the top price computing scale. The CAS S2000 JR. farmers market scale features dual range capacities, the ability to weigh in pounds, kilograms or ounces and you can easily print out a basic label with the optional label printer. The S-2000 Junior is our top pick for 2023. If you’re looking for a legal for trade price computing scale that has great features and reliability.

 

Well there you have it. Our top rated farmers market scales for 2023. These commercial scales have a great track record of accurate and reliable weighing. Wondering why the S2000 Junior beat out the RS130? The answer is overall value, warranty, dual range capacities, and the ability to connect a label printer.

We based our ratings on our own opinion of the products, past sales, repeat sales from repeat customers, and overall reliability.  

Be sure to contact our sales department (919) 776-7737 to discuss the current prices for these legal for trade scales and current availability. 

Dangers of Buying Certain “Cheap” Scales Online

The article below is courtesy of Mr. Boon Lim who has been involved in the weighing industry for many years. It really hammers home the points that we have been trying to discuss with customers for literally decades! 

There are differences in quality between certain brands of scales. We’ve discussed this numerous times over the years either here in our learning center or on our Youtube channel or perhaps via phone or email with you. A lot of times it’s a balancing act between value & accuracy. Many customers don’t have the budget or the requirements for the top of the line most expensive scale… but they also don’t need to buy the cheapest scale under the sun either. Let’s take a look at what Boon found when he purchased some of the cheapest scales available online. We hope you enjoy the article below.

Have you noticed a quality shift in the weighing industry? Quality standards have
decreased significantly on consumer scales with “assembly only” operations making big
waves in the scale community. Large sellers are dominating the online retail space for
consumers, and this is not any different for scales. Whether you support the
unstoppable rise of these ecommerce giants or not, there is no denying the profound
impact associated with their operation.

So, we bought some of the “Best Selling”, highly rated, affordable scales and balances to test the quality.

Yes, with 2-day free shipping too.

Our discoveries were astounding… Continue reading

What Does 5000 x 1 Mean? Scale Capacity x Readability

We’re going to discuss something that many folks wonder about the first couple of times they are tasked with buying scales.

What Does it Mean when you see 5000 x 1 on a Scale?

If you’ve done any research at all online for scales, you’ve probably seen something written like 5000 x 1, or perhaps you’ve requested a quote and seen that number written. Either way, you may be wondering what these mean. 5000 x 1 lb, or it could be 60 x 0.02lb or it may have been 3000 g by 0.01g. 120,000 x 20 lb, 500 x 0.1 lb etc….

600 x 0.1 LB

 

 

But what exactly does that mean? It’s actually pretty simple.

In the case of 5000 x 1 lb, this means that the total weighing capacity of the scale is 5000 pounds and the scale increases or decreases in weight by 1 lb increments from zero all the way to 5000 lb.

Some people refer to the 1 lb in this example as the readability or the graduation size. In the 60 x 0.02 lb example, it would be as follows, 60 lb is the capacity and 0.02 lb is the graduation size that the scale increases or decreases by from zero all the way to 60 lb. Continue reading

Finding the Right Balance Between Value & Accuracy

One of the things that we try really hard to do is provide our customers with as much value as possible. How do we do that? We do this in many ways through things like factory training, sales training, and product research. One other thing we do quite often is constantly strive to find quality products that are affordable for customers.

However, one of the really challenging things we have to deal with is striking the balance between quality and accurate products. Or, unfortunately, in some instances, good products versus junk. 

Unfortunately, the line between a good product and a not-so-good product is getting finer and finer…

count small parts easier with an electronic counting scale

I was reminded of this challenge over the past couple of weeks. Recently, I had a line of imported scales from China presented to me that seemed to have a lot of promise.  The price was attractive and the visual look of the scales was appealing.  However, once I evaluated these items, it quickly became apparent, that although these scales would please everybody’s demand for a low price… they would not meet our standards for accuracy or the demands of our customers. 

If you’re an end user, then you face a similar challenge. Perhaps you’re in the market for a counting scale. With minimal internet research, you can find prices on parts counting scales from $100 and up!  Of course, the hundred dollar scale is 99% plastic and 1% aluminum and certainly not what we would recommend for anyone looking for a durable and relatively long lasting scale.

The same thing can be said for many types of scales…

Farmers or Market Sellers searching for price computing scales are often easily fooled by the $60 produce scales they may see on popular auction sites only to find out later, (when their state inspector shuts them down), that what they really needed is what’s called a NTEP Legal for Trade certified price computing scale, which is more expensive.

Perhaps it’s a floor scale that you need to weigh pallets each day. Although many floor scales look similar in pictures online, these “pallet scales” feature various components, such as digital indicators & strain gauge load cells, which can vary greatly in quality. The product construction and durability can also vary quite a bit depending on who actually manufacturers the scale platform and how much engineering truly went into constructing it.   

So how do you find a weighing scale that meets your budget and is built to last? 

These days it’s easier than ever to just buy everything you need without the help of anyone. Just point and click. But many times when you do that, you could be missing out. How does the old saying go?  You don’t know what you don’t know… 

I recommend contacting your local scale company or a scale company that you have done business with and trust. (Hopefully, we’re included in that choice!)  It really does make the process of buying scales much easier when you have a good working relationship with your scale company.

As you work with your scale company representative, they will become a trusted partner in your business.  Your scale sales person knows what you’re weighing and the weighing needs of your business. All you need to do is mention what you’re looking to do and what type of weighing device you think that you’ll need.

Pricing and Quotes

Over the years I have seen some really nice scales and I have seen some really bad scales too! I suggest working together with your trusted scale supplier to find products that will meet your requirements while staying within your budget.

The product and sourcing experience that your scale dealer has is invaluable. Don’t forget, in addition to working with you, we also work with hundreds of other customers helping them to find the perfect weighing equipment for their needs.  So that product experience and knowledge that we gain can then be applied to your scale search as well.

I also recommend working with a scale company who’s willing to offer various brands of scales as opposed to a dealer who just pushes one brand of scales for everything… 

It’s very common for us to recommend different brands for various types of scales. For example, we might suggest CAS retail scales, B-Tek floor scales, Avery Weigh-Tronix counting scales and Cardinal truck scales. 

In other words, we base our product recommendations largely off past success and not because we’re trying reach some kind of sales quota. 

 

Final Thoughts

We realize that customers want to find a great deal on whatever it is that they need to purchase. It can be anything from scales to copy paper… everyone wants to find a cheaper alternative that is just as good as what you’ve been using. 

Unfortunately, as many of us have found out, often a product is cheaper for certain reasons. We see this all the time whether you’re talking about a portable pallet jack scale or a stationary 4×4 pallet scale. Quality and durability are often lacking with cheap scales.

Let us help you make intelligent scale purchases for your business. We can help you save money while still buying quality scales and weighing equipment. We’re just a phone call away (919) 776-7737.  If you prefer, you can also email us or complete our Request a Quote form and someone from our staff will get back to you in a timely manner. 

Buying a Scale from a Restaurant Supply Website or Material Handling Catalog…

Look we get it… you are looking for a good deal on your next scale purchase. Almost all of us do that on virtually everything that we buy these days. And thanks to the internet we have pricing at our fingertips for everything from toilet paper to masks… (A little covid-19 reference). 

However, a lot of times the pricing is only a small part of the entire picture. Often, customers will purchase a scale from some “Restaurant Supply” Warehouse website or some “Material Handling” Catalog that gets mailed to every business in the country it seems. Ordering is easy and the pricing is usually very reasonable. However, customer service and most importantly, product knowledge is often lacking.

Sometimes the purchase can be ok. The product arrives and it works out well. But what happens when you have an issue?  This is where the disadvantage of using this ordering route begins to occur. 

I was visiting one of these “mega” websites recently and the customer reviews were pretty bad for what should have been a pretty nice product. 

You see, to many of these customer service reps, your counting scale or the price computing scale that you purchased, is simply a part number or item number.  There is no “real” tech support for the most part. There is no factory trained scale technician who can diagnose what the issue is. Take a look at the “canned” response that I saw today when I looked at one product:

Thank you for your feedback! We’re sorry you did not prefer this product. For recommendations, please contact our solutions team.

This can not only be a problem after the sale, but it also can be a problem when you make the original purchase.

For example, if a customer calls or emails the sales team at Central Carolina Scale and tells us what they are looking to do, we can often point them in the right direction and recommend a proven product to them right off the bat.

Will it likely be more expensive than the Restaurant Supply or Material Handling websites?  Usually (but not always). However, in most cases you are benefiting from our years of experience and the proven performance that we have actually seen from our products. 

You see, we don’t typically just refer to our products as an item number… we have put these scales to work for many years. We have a list of proven and dependable scales that we can recommend for just about any application.  

Have a budget in mind?

Tell us ahead of time what your budget is and we can work to meet that number, assuming the budget is realistic. 

The reason I mention “realistic” is that with all the cheap products coming over from China these days, you can just about get whatever you want from China at whatever price you want.  But as the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for”. We see A LOT of scales. It’s our business and it’s basically all we specialize in. Some of the scales that come from China are pretty good and some are complete garbage. We’ve found that most are somewhere in between. 

So when we discuss budgets… we’re not saying you have to purchase the most expensive scale ever created. We are simply saying, have a realistic budget that will allow you to get a quality product that might provide you more accurate weighing and perhaps more longevity.

Pennsylvania 7500 industrial counting scale

I’ll give you one quick example. You can buy a counting scale for about whatever price you want to pay these days.  I’ve seen them for around $100 and up. However, the odds are that $100 counting scale that is made out of 98% plastic is not going to last very long and then you will be buying another and another etc… Or, you could just purchase a proven industrial scale like the Pennsylvania 7500 counting scale and likely be using it for the next twenty years. That is an example of what I’m referring to. 

The overall point of this entry is to please contact us before you contact one of these mega websites or material handling catalogs. Often times we can beat their prices and if necessary, we can almost always provide you with an even better product.  Contact us (919) 776-7737 or complete our Request a Quote button on our website. As always, thank you for your business.  

Frequently Asked Questions about the CAS S2000 Jr Commercial Scale

This time of the year it’s always good to start talking about price computing scales. If you currently own a set of scales, then you need to get them out and make sure they are weighing correctly and displaying correctly on both sides. You also need to make sure the battery is working if you have a built in rechargeable battery. 

The CAS S2000 Junior retail price computing scale is popular with customers who want a reliable scale that they can use at the market when selling their fruits, vegetables, candy and more. Sure there are less expensive scales out there, but often those scales are constantly needing parts while the s2000 jr keeps on working.

It’s hard to believe, but we’ve been offering this scale to our customers since 2006!  In that time, we’ve accumulated more than a few questions from our customers, either before the sale or after the sale.

So, below are the top frequently asked questions about the CAS S2000 Jr scale. Hopefully, if you’re in the market for this scale, your question will get answered below. If you still have questions be sure to contact our sales department.

cas s2000 jr price computing scale

Q: CAS S2000 Junior operation instructions?
A: Basically, the way the scale works is as follows. Place your items on the scale. Items could be strawberries, bananas, pumpkins, fudge, frozen yogurt, nails, screws, bolts etc… whatever you need to charge the customer by the pound, kilogram or ounce. Then enter your price per pound that you want to charge the customer. Once you do that, the scale will display the total charge on both the front side (operator view) and back side of the scale (customer view).

Q: Does the S2K JR scale have a change calculating function?
A: No, it does not. You might want to see the Rice Lake RS-130.

Q: If the scale includes a certificate of conformance number (CoC#) do I still have to get these scales tested and calibrated for commercial use by the state?
A: Best answer is, contact your individual state weights and measures department. Each state has their own rules regarding certified scales. Generally, you will want to purchase a NTEP approved scale with a CoC# (which the S2000 Jr has).

Q: Can you tell me if the increments are by 0.01 or 0.02 or something else?
A: The CAS Scale s2000 jr is available from Central Carolina Scale in three different capacities. 15 lb, 30 lb and 60 lb. Each of those is what we call “dual range”. Dual range means that the scales display a certain increment until they reach half capacity, then they display a different increment from half way to full capacity. For example, on the 60 lb capacity model… the scale will display increments of 0.01 pound on weights that range from 0 to 30 pounds. Then from 30.02 up to 60 pounds, the scale will display in increments of 0.02 lb.

Q: Does this scale weigh in Ounces?
A: Yes it does. Great for frozen yogurt shoppes.

Q: How long can the unit operate on a single charge of the battery?
A: Manufacturer says around 200 hours with no backlight and auto off functionality.

Q: What capacities are available and which should I choose?
A: 15, 30 or 60 pounds are the capacity choices. With the dual range capability, this scale is kind of like having two scales for the price of one. Most customers selling berries or smaller fruits and vegetables would choose a 30 lb or 60 lb capacity. Candy or yogurt stores might choose the 15 lb capacity.

Q: What is the battery life between charges?
A: According to CAS, Approx. 200 Hours LCD (no backlight) with a 12 hour charging time.

Q: I have your quote for the CAS s2000 JR. It costs more than the ____, why should I buy the S2000 Jr instead of the cheaper scale?
A: The s2000 JR is a reliable scale that is popular with customers. We have sold just about every retail scale out there and the s2000 jr is, in our opinion, the best overall value in price computing scales that we currently offer. Who knows, that might change sometime down the road, but as of now, this is the best scale for this type of application.  The cheaper scales, in our experience, tend to have components that fail more often. So with those scales, you tend to be replacing AC adapters and keypads more frequently. 

Q: Hi, I own a frozen yogurt shop. Will this scale read in 0.1 ounce?
A: Yes, the 15 lb capacity scale and the 30 lb capacity scale would be the best choices for you to consider.

Q: If I was interested in adding a label printer, would this scale allow me to put a custom logo or company name on the label?
A: Sorry, but the CAS S2000 JR has limited capability in this area. Logos and customization would be something you might see with CAS advanced label printing scales like the LP1000 and CL5000.

Q: Do you offer a replacement battery for the CAS S2000 JR scale?
A: Yes please call our sales department.

Q: Is this NSF certified in the US for deli usage?
A: No, this is not NSF certified. However, the scale is a NTEP legal for trade commercial scale.

Q: Does this scale have a rear display for the customer to see?
A: Yes this scale has rear display for weight and price info.

Q: What type of battery does the s2000 JR take? What is the replacement cost for the battery?
A: Takes a Rechargeable Battery, normally in stock. Call our sales department for price and availability.

Q: What is the platter size?
A: 12 (W) x 8.75 (D) inches.

Q: Where is the CAS S-2000 Junior scale made?
A: To the best of our knowledge, this scale is made in either China or South Korea.

Q: Do you have a better Owners Manual / User Guide?
A: Unfortunately, no. Several customers have complained over the years about the manual.

Q: How many Price look ups does the scale have?
A: 3 Direct PLU’s and 197 Indirect PLU’s

Q: Does the S2000 JR scale arrive calibrated?
A: The scales are calibrated at the factory or by us before you receive yours. So in most instances the scale should be accurate when you receive it. Note, every now and then, a delivery company will decide to treat the box like a football and that could lead to the scale being out of tolerance when you receive it.

Q: Is this scale legal for trade?
A: Yes the S2000 JR model is NTEP approved and legal for trade

Q: Why should I buy this scale from you when I can get it from other websites online?
A: We are an authorized CAS dealer and have a direct relationship with them in New Jersey. We also typically stock the scale. That means fast delivery and accurate calibration, so when you order your scale from Central Carolina Scale, you know that you will receive it quickly and it will be accurate.

Q: What are dimensions of the scale?
A: 13 x 13.6 x 4.2 inches

Q: Can this scale be used for weighing laundry?
A: Yes this can be considered a commercial laundry scale. We also have a metal basket that it can be used with.

Q: Does the scale have dual display?
A: Yes, it has displays on the front and back showing the weight, price and total cost.

Q: Does the S2000 Junior have a battery included?
A: Yes

Q: Can this scale add up multiple transactions for a total for the customer?
A: For that, you might want to take a look at the Ohaus Aviator 7000, or many customers just have a calculator beside the scale.

Q: Can I attach a pole display to the CAS s2kjr model?
A: No, in order to have a pole display, you would need to order the pole display version of the scale.

We hope that this page has helped you out regarding the CAS S 2000 Junior retail scale. If you’re looking for a reliable price computing scale, this would be a great choice. The fact that the scale has three different capacity choices, each with “dual range” capability, make this a great choice that is both versatile and accurate. If you have questions or would like to place an order, call us (919) 776-7737.

Are You Paying For Your Frozen Yogurt Cup too?

Believe it or not, the warmer months will be here before long and we’ll all be looking to cool down at the local froyo shop. Today, many of these frozen yogurt shops allow the consumer to dispense as much frozen yogurt he or she wants. 

The yogurt is priced at around fifty cents per ounce, so if you want many different flavors or a cup that is filled sky high, you can. However, the real question is are you paying for just the yogurt and toppings that you consume or are you also paying for the cup that the yogurt is placed in?

Many yogurt shops determine price based on the weight of the yogurt and toppings, but they are required to subtract the weight of the cup or package first (which is called the tare weight). According to Jerry Butler, NCDA & CS Weight and Measures program manager, not every shop is aware of that. Butler heads a team of 24 inspectors whose job is to inspect scales in the state, and he guesses that they’ve inspected around a hundred or so yogurt shops so far. Of those, he estimates about 75 percent have not been using their scales properly. “Say you’re a family of four,” Butler says, “you could be paying up to a dollar extra just for the weight of the cups. So it’s important that the shops know how to use their scales.”

Now that the NCDA & CS inspectors have discovered that yogurt shops use scales, they’re keeping an eye out for them as they drive to other jobs. If they see a frozen yogurt shop while they’re out, they’ll step inside to inspect it. Most shops that have been violating are quick to correct their mistakes, which were usually made in ignorance, Butler says. A second offense would result in a notice of violation, and a third offender must pay a penalty of up to $5,000. So what can frozen yogurt eaters do to make sure they’re getting the most yogurt for their buck? “The bottom line is: the consumer needs to look and ask,” Butler says. “Make sure that the yogurt shop employee uses the tare. And if they’re not, the consumer needs to call me.”

Fortunately for frozen yogurt shop owners, we have electronic scales available that make this process fairly easy to accommodate. Contact the sales staff today (919) 776-7737 and they will be happy to provide you with prices for the legal for trade scales that will work best to accommodate weighing frozen yogurt by the ounce, and using the tare feature to subtract out the weight of the cup.

scale for weighing frozen yogurt by the ounce

Scales for Every Application 

We have standard legal for trade counter top scales. We have point of sale scales that can connect to your cash register. Finally, we have price computing scales that can display the weight and price on both the front of the scale and the back of the scale. 

We offer over 40,000 products (and counting) — the largest selection of quality weighing products available—and the best customer service in the business. Contact us today for all of your scale needs.