Industrial Scale FAQs
Have a question about selecting, ordering, receiving, or servicing a scale? Find quick answers below, or speak with a scale expert before you order.
Tell us what you are weighing, the lightest and heaviest expected loads, the dimensions of the items, and how the scale will be loaded. We also need to know the operating environment, whether weight will determine a price or fee, and whether you need printing, data collection, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, relays, or another communication output. Photographs, drawings, and details about the available installation space can help us recommend the correct system.
Select a capacity that exceeds the heaviest total load the scale will encounter, including containers, fixtures, carts, equipment, or anything else placed on the weighing surface. Additional capacity provides a safety margin for normal load variation and helps protect the scale from accidental overloading. The appropriate margin depends on how the scale will be loaded, the likelihood of impact or uneven loading, and the readability required.
Capacity is the maximum weight the scale is designed to weigh. Readability is the smallest weight increment shown on the display, while accuracy describes how closely the displayed weight agrees with the actual applied weight under stated conditions. A scale displaying small increments is not automatically more accurate, so all three specifications should be evaluated together.
It can. Higher-capacity scales often use larger displayed increments because the scale must cover a wider weighing range. If you need both high capacity and fine readability, provide the minimum and maximum weights you expect to measure so we can determine whether a standard configuration, dual-range system, or custom solution is appropriate.
The platform must be large enough to support the complete load safely and keep it properly positioned on the weighing surface. Consider the item dimensions, loading direction, available floor space, clearance, and whether ramps, guards, frames, or surrounding equipment will be used. Send us the load dimensions and a photograph or drawing of the installation area if you need help selecting the correct size.
An NTEP-approved scale is generally required when weight determines a price, payment, fee, or other commercial charge. NTEP approval indicates that the scale type has an approved Certificate of Conformance, but the complete system, installation, configuration, and application must also satisfy applicable state or local weights-and-measures requirements. A local inspection or placing-in-service procedure may still be required before the scale can be used for commercial transactions.
Yes. Non-NTEP scales are commonly used for internal inventory, manufacturing, batching, process control, load verification, quality checks, and shipping estimates when the displayed weight does not determine a commercial price or fee. If freight charges, customer billing, purchasing, or sales are based on the weight, confirm the Legal for Trade requirements before selecting the scale.
Carbon steel is a cost-effective choice for many dry indoor industrial applications. Stainless steel is better suited for washdown areas, food processing, chemical exposure, corrosive environments, or applications with strict sanitation requirements. Aluminum and other materials may be appropriate when portability, corrosion resistance, or reduced equipment weight is important. The platform, load cells, junction box, indicator, cables, and accessories should all be rated for the actual environment.
Only when the complete weighing system is designed and rated for those conditions. Outdoor and washdown applications may require sealed load cells, a protected junction box, weather-resistant cables, an appropriately rated indicator, corrosion-resistant construction, drainage, grounding, and protection from standing water, direct spray, temperature extremes, and lightning. Tell us how and where the scale will be used so every component can be selected correctly.
USA Measurements can provide custom platform dimensions, capacities, materials, mounting arrangements, indicators, printers, scoreboards, software connections, relays, and communication outputs. Available connections may include RS-232, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, analog output, and other application-specific interfaces. Common custom categories include floor scales and axle scales. Send us your drawings, equipment requirements, and desired workflow for a custom quote.
Standard products can be ordered directly through our website. Request a formal quote when you need multiple units, custom equipment, special configuration, installation, calibration, freight coordination, tax-exempt purchasing, purchase-order processing, or project-specific documentation. For technical applications, speaking with a scale expert before ordering helps prevent selecting an incorrect product or configuration.
Provide the product or application, quantity, capacity, readability, dimensions, material, operating environment, delivery address, and requested completion date. Include any requirements for NTEP approval, calibration certificates, installation, training, printing, data communication, freight services, or custom fabrication. Photographs, drawings, specifications, and information about how the equipment will be loaded or installed are also helpful.
We accept major credit cards, ACH payments, wire transfers, and company checks. Approved purchase orders and NET payment terms may be available for eligible commercial, government, and institutional customers. The payment requirements for custom products, project orders, and freight shipments will be stated on the applicable quote or invoice.
Yes. Purchase orders and NET payment terms may be available after credit review and written approval. New customers may be asked to provide a credit application, trade references, tax documentation, and billing information. An order is not considered released for production or shipment until the purchase order and payment terms have been accepted.
Custom, made-to-order, and large project orders may require a deposit before engineering, procurement, or production begins. The remaining balance may be due before shipment or according to the written payment schedule on the quote or invoice. Because these products are built or configured for a specific application, deposits and payments may become non-refundable after work has begun.
Contact us immediately if you need to cancel an order or change the product, quantity, configuration, billing information, or shipping address. Orders can be cancelled as long as they have not shipped. Once a product has shipped, the order can no longer be cancelled and must be handled through our return process, subject to return eligibility, return shipping costs, and any applicable restocking fees.
Yes. Volume pricing, project pricing, dealer pricing, and reseller opportunities may be available depending on the products, quantities, and scope of the order. Send the item numbers, quantities, delivery requirements, and project timeline to sales@primeusascales.com for review.
Send a current and properly completed tax-exemption or resale certificate to our team before the order is processed. The certificate must apply to the purchasing entity and the applicable delivery jurisdiction. Tax cannot be removed until the documentation has been reviewed and accepted, so submit it before payment whenever possible.
Product availability and lead-time information may be shown on the product page, formal quote, or order confirmation. Some products are stocked, while others are assembled, calibrated, configured, or manufactured after the order is placed. Contact us with the item number and required delivery date if availability is critical to your project.
Most in-stock products are prepared for shipment within one to three business days unless a different timeframe is stated on the product page, quote, or order confirmation. Orders requiring calibration, programming, accessories, documentation, or special freight preparation may require additional time. Carrier transit time begins after the order leaves the shipping location.
Production lead time is the time required to manufacture, assemble, configure, test, calibrate, and prepare an order for shipment. Carrier transit time is the estimated time the carrier needs to transport the order after pickup. An estimated lead time does not include carrier delays, delivery appointments, weather disruptions, or other events that occur after shipment.
Yes. Expedited shipping is available for in-stock products through one-day, two-day, or three-day delivery services, depending on the product, destination, order time, and carrier availability. Additional charges apply. If you have an urgent project and need the scale to arrive by a specific date, contact our team so we can work with you to select the appropriate service and get the scale delivered according to your needs.
All products on our website include free standard shipping within the contiguous United States, also known as the lower 48 states. We also ship to Alaska and Hawaii, but additional shipping charges apply. Expedited services, international shipping, and optional or special delivery services may also require additional charges.
Additional charges may apply for liftgate service, delivery appointments, residential locations, inside delivery, redelivery, or storage. Charges may also result from an incorrect delivery address, an unavailable unloading method, or a missed delivery appointment. Tell us about any special delivery conditions before the order ships so they can be included in the quote.
Smaller products generally ship through a parcel carrier such as UPS, FedEx, or USPS. Larger, heavier, or oversized equipment generally ships by LTL freight, dedicated truck, or flatbed. The shipping method depends on the product dimensions, weight, packaging, destination, and unloading requirements.
Most LTL freight shipments require a loading dock, forklift, tractor with forks, crane, or another safe unloading method with enough capacity for the shipment. The customer is responsible for providing a suitable unloading method unless a different service has been arranged in writing. Tell us before shipment if you do not have unloading equipment so we can review liftgate service, terminal pickup, or another delivery option.
Yes. These services can often be arranged when requested before shipment, but additional charges may apply. Our team will help select the most cost-effective delivery options and do everything possible to avoid unnecessary fees. Freight shipments can also be held at the carrier's local terminal for customer pickup at no additional charge if you prefer that method or do not have a suitable delivery and unloading location. Provide complete information about the delivery location, unloading method, business hours, access restrictions, and onsite contact so the correct service can be arranged.
Count all pieces and inspect the shipment, crate, wrapping, straps, and exposed product surfaces before signing. Look for punctures, crushed areas, broken boards, missing straps, leaning freight, exposed equipment, or any indication that the shipment was dropped or mishandled. Note all visible damage or missing items on the delivery receipt, take photographs, retain a copy, and keep all packaging before the driver leaves. Call (800) 917-7205, text photographs to (702) 970-4414, or email shipping@primeusascales.com immediately so our team can assist.
Document the condition of the shipment, packaging, labels, and affected product with clear photographs or video. Note visible damage or shortages on the delivery receipt, retain the product and all packaging, and do not discard or repair anything until the claim has been reviewed. Call (800) 917-7205, text (702) 970-4414, or email shipping@primeusascales.com immediately. Contact our team immediately so we can assist with the next steps.
Tracking information is generally sent by email after the order ships. Parcel shipments usually include a carrier tracking number, while freight shipments may include a carrier name, PRO number, and delivery-contact information. If you do not receive tracking information, email shipping@primeusascales.com with your order number.
Yes. We ship to Alaska and Hawaii with additional shipping charges. Eligible products can also be shipped to Canada and Mexico, and other international orders may be shipped directly, through a freight forwarder, or using the customer's carrier account. International freight, duties, taxes, brokerage fees, customs charges, and destination services are not included unless specifically stated in writing.
Standard products may be eligible for return when the return request is submitted within 30 days from the date of purchase. The product must be in acceptable condition and include the original packaging, components, manuals, cables, and accessories when applicable. All returns require approval and an RMA before the product is shipped back.
Custom, made-to-order, specially configured, used, or customer-damaged products are not returnable. Truck scales and aircraft scales are also non-returnable. Additional products may be excluded when identified as non-returnable on the product page, quote, invoice, or order documentation.
The customer is responsible for return shipping costs on non-defective returns. If a product arrives damaged, defective, or does not operate correctly, contact us before shipping anything back. We will review the issue and provide the appropriate shipping and resolution instructions.
A restocking fee may apply to non-defective returns depending on the product, manufacturer, packaging, condition, and whether the item has been opened or requires inspection, testing, repackaging, or reconditioning. The applicable restocking fee generally ranges from 10% to 20% of the product price. We will confirm the expected fee during the return-authorization process whenever possible.
Email returns@primeusascales.com with your order number, proof of purchase, product information, and reason for the return or exchange. Include photographs when they help document the product and packaging condition. If the return is approved, we will provide an RMA number and shipping instructions. Do not send a product back without an RMA.
Approved refunds are generally processed within 1 to 3 business days after the returned product is received and passes inspection. The inspection confirms the product, components, packaging, and condition against the approved return. Your bank, credit-card company, or payment provider may require additional time for the credit to appear in your account.
Confirm that the scale is on a level surface and that the power supply, load-cell cable, indicator connection, and any shipping stops are correctly installed. Do not modify, disassemble, or attempt unauthorized repairs. Contact support@primeusascales.com with your order number, model, description of the issue, and photographs or video. We will review the issue, then provide repair, replacement, or refund as appropriate.
Warranty coverage varies by product and manufacturer. The applicable warranty period will be stated on the product page, formal quote, invoice, or manufacturer documentation. USA Measurements products include the warranty specifically stated in the applicable sales documentation.
Warranty coverage generally applies to defects in materials or workmanship that occur during normal and intended use within the applicable warranty period. Coverage and available remedies vary by product and manufacturer. The warranty stated on the product page, quote, invoice, or manufacturer documentation controls the claim.
Warranty coverage does not include freight, onsite labor, travel, removal, reinstallation, or other related service costs unless those items are specifically included in writing. The warranty generally applies to the covered product, component, repair, or replacement identified in the applicable warranty terms. Contact us before incurring any warranty-related expense because unauthorized costs may not be reimbursed.
Warranty coverage does not include misuse, overloading, impact damage, accidents, improper installation, incorrect power, unauthorized modifications, unauthorized repairs, neglect, or failure to follow operating and maintenance instructions. Normal wear, cosmetic damage, corrosion, water intrusion on products not designed for washdown, and damage caused by unsuitable operating conditions are also excluded. Specific exclusions may vary by product or manufacturer.
Provide your order number, proof of purchase, product model, serial number when available, and a detailed description of the problem. Include when the issue began, what was being weighed, the operating environment, any error messages, and the troubleshooting steps already completed. Clear photographs and videos showing the product, connections, display, and problem will help us review the claim more quickly.
Yes. Prime USA Scales can arrange onsite installation, setup, testing, and calibration through our nationwide service network, which includes approximately 75 service locations. Availability, pricing, and scheduling depend on the scale, installation requirements, and service location. Contact us with the product information and installation address so we can confirm coverage and prepare a quote.
Operator training can be included with an installation or service visit when requested. Training may cover startup, zero and tare functions, normal weighing procedures, daily inspections, cleaning, basic troubleshooting, and any application-specific operating requirements. Tell us who will use the equipment and what training is needed so it can be included in the service scope.
Site requirements depend on the scale and application. Preparation may include a stable and level mounting surface, adequate clearance, the correct electrical supply, equipment access, unloading arrangements, drainage, environmental protection, and network or data connections. Truck scales, floor scales installed in pits, tank or hopper systems, and custom installations may require approved drawings, concrete work, conduit, grounding, or other site work before the technician arrives.
Provide the installation or service address, scale type, manufacturer, model, capacity, dimensions, and whether the equipment is new or already in operation. Include photographs or drawings of the scale and surrounding area, along with information about access, unloading, electrical power, environmental conditions, required test weights, calibration certificates, and Legal for Trade requirements. Also provide your preferred completion date and any site-specific safety or access rules.
Provide the service address or ZIP code, the scale manufacturer and model, and the type of service required. We will check our nationwide service network and confirm technician availability, travel requirements, estimated scheduling, and pricing. Service availability may vary based on the location, equipment, required test weights, and scope of work.
All scales are factory calibrated before shipping and should arrive calibrated and ready for use. After installation, confirm that the scale is level, reads zero, and displays the correct weight when tested with a known weight. Recalibration may be required if shipping, movement, leveling, assembly, local gravity, mounting conditions, or final configuration affected the scale's performance. Scales used for commercial transactions may also require inspection and approval by the applicable state or local weights-and-measures authority before being placed into service.
Annual calibration is common for many industrial scales, but the correct interval depends on the application and operating conditions. Scales used frequently, exposed to demanding environments, or relied upon for tight process tolerances may need calibration every six months, quarterly, or more frequently. Regulatory, customer, quality-system, or internal policy requirements may also establish a specific interval.
Calibration frequency depends on usage, load cycles, required accuracy, process tolerance, environmental conditions, vibration, temperature changes, washdown exposure, and the likelihood of shock loading or overloading. Previous calibration results can also show whether a scale remains stable between service visits. A calibration schedule should be adjusted when results show increasing error or when the scale is moved, repaired, overloaded, or exposed to unusual conditions.
Calibration compares a scale's indicated weight with known test standards to determine measurement error. Adjustment, when necessary and authorized, changes the scale's settings to improve performance, while a calibration certificate documents the test conditions, standards, and results. A Legal for Trade inspection is a separate evaluation performed or recognized by the applicable weights-and-measures authority to determine whether a commercial weighing system may be placed into service. A calibration certificate by itself does not make a scale Legal for Trade.
NIST-traceable calibration means the test standards used for the calibration are connected to recognized national measurement standards through a documented, unbroken chain of calibrations. Each step in that chain contributes to the measurement uncertainty and must be supported by appropriate records. It does not necessarily mean that NIST directly calibrated the scale or every test weight used during the service.
A calibration certificate may identify the customer, service location, scale manufacturer, model, serial number, capacity, readability, and calibration date. It may also include the test standards used, their traceability information, test points, observed results, tolerances, and as-found and as-left conditions. The exact certificate format and included information depend on the service provider, equipment, requested scope, and applicable quality requirements.
In many cases, yes. Service depends on the scale's manufacturer, model, condition, location, parts availability, and the type of repair or calibration required. Provide the model and serial number, photographs of the scale and indicator, and a description of the problem so we can determine the available service options. Learn more about our Scale Repairs and Services.
Both options may be available. Large, permanently installed, or difficult-to-transport scales are generally serviced onsite, while smaller bench scales, indicators, and removable components may be shipped to a repair facility when that is faster or more cost-effective. We will review the equipment, location, and problem before recommending the appropriate service method.
Provide the scale manufacturer, model, serial number, capacity, readability, service location, and order number when available. Describe the symptoms, error messages, when the problem began, what was being weighed, the operating environment, and any recent overload, impact, relocation, power issue, or repair. Photographs or videos showing the scale, indicator display, cables, connections, installation, and problem can help us diagnose the issue more quickly.
Manuals, specifications, and available setup resources may be provided on the applicable product page or with the equipment. If you cannot locate the correct documentation, email support@primeusascales.com with the product model, serial number, and order number when available. Our team will help identify the correct manual, instructions, video, or technical-support resource.
Yes. Recurring service programs can be arranged annually, semiannually, quarterly, or at another interval based on the equipment, application, operating conditions, and quality requirements. A program may include scheduled calibration, certificates, performance inspections, preventive maintenance, service reminders, and coordinated visits for multiple scales or locations. Contact us with your equipment list, locations, and required service frequency for a customized quote.
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