Our customer thought they needed to spend thousands replacing a forklift truck scale we’d installed over 10 years ago. In the end, the repair cost just a few pounds.
Confused by scale calibration and verification? Learn the difference, when each is needed, and how Total Weighing Solutions can help keep your weighing equipment accurate and compliant.
Discover how often industrial scales should be calibrated, what factors influence calibration frequency and why regular scale calibration helps maintain accuracy, reduce errors and support quality management procedures.
Repeatability testing is a key part of scale calibration, helping verify that a scale produces consistent results when the same load is applied multiple times. Learn how repeatability testing works, why it matters and how it helps maintain confidence in weighing accuracy.
Discover how forklift truck scales can improve warehouse efficiency, reduce product giveaway, and increase weighing accuracy. Learn the key benefits of onboard forklift weighing systems for modern logistics and industrial operations.
Stock take is one of those tasks that many teams dread. Whether you are counting small components, fixings, electronic parts, packaging items or production materials, manually counting hundreds or thousands of parts can be slow, repetitive and prone to error.
A counting scale provides a practical, cost-effective way to speed up inventory checks. By calculating the average weight of an item, the scale can quickly estimate the quantity of parts placed on the weighing platform, helping businesses save time, reduce labour costs and improve stock accuracy.
What Is a Counting Scale?
A counting scale is a weighing scale designed to count items by weight. Instead of manually counting each individual part, the scale calculates the average piece weight and uses this value to display the total quantity of items on the scale.
Traditional counting scales often include three display areas on the front of the indicator. These typically show:
- Gross or net weight
- Average individual part weight
- Total item count or quantity
Many counting scales also include a numeric keypad, allowing the operator to enter the sample quantity quickly and accurately.
Are All Counting Scales the Same?
No. While many dedicated counting scales have three displays and a keypad, there are also weighing scales with a built-in counting function. These may only have a single display, with the operator switching between weight and quantity modes.
Some models allow users to select from a pre-determined item count or stored product information, depending on the scale’s features. The right option depends on the type of items being counted, the accuracy required and how frequently the equipment will be used.
| Scale Type | Typical Features | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated counting scale | Multiple displays, numeric keypad, average piece weight calculation | Regular stock take, component counting and production environments |
| Scale with counting function | Single display with selectable counting mode | Occasional counting tasks where weighing is also required |
How Do You Use a Counting Scale?
In most stock take or inventory counting applications, the process is simple. The exact procedure may vary depending on the model, but a typical counting scale is used as follows:
- Ensure the scale is switched on and settled at zero.
- Place an empty container on the scale.
- Press the Tare button to remove the weight of the container.
- Add a small known quantity of parts into the container, for example 10 items.
- Enter the quantity you have just added using the numeric keypad.
- Press the Sample button.
The scale then divides the net weight by the quantity entered to calculate the average weight of each individual item. Once this average piece weight is established, the scale displays the total quantity of items placed on the weighing platform.
How Does a Counting Scale Save Time?
Once the sample has been set, you can add the remaining parts into the container and the scale will calculate the total quantity. If another item is added, the displayed count increases. If an item is removed, the displayed count decreases.
This makes the counting process much faster than manual counting, particularly when dealing with large volumes of small, similar items.
Key Benefits of Counting Scales
- Faster stock takes: Count large quantities of small parts in a fraction of the time.
- Reduced human error: Minimise miscounts caused by fatigue or repetitive manual work.
- Improved productivity: Free up staff to return to normal work activities sooner.
- Cost-effective operation: Save time and labour during annual stock take or regular inventory checks.
- Useful across many sectors: Suitable for warehouses, manufacturing, engineering, laboratories and stores departments.
Common Applications for Counting Scales
Counting scales are widely used wherever small parts need to be counted quickly and consistently. Typical applications include:
- Annual stock take and inventory checks
- Counting nuts, bolts, washers and fixings
- Engineering component counting
- Electronics and small parts management
- Warehouse picking and packing
- Production line quantity checks
- Stores and goods-in departments
Tips for Accurate Counting
For best results, it is important to use the counting scale correctly and ensure the sample quantity represents the items being counted.
- Use a clean, stable weighing surface.
- Allow the scale to settle at zero before starting.
- Tare off any container before adding parts.
- Use a suitable sample size for the items being counted.
- Ensure all items in the batch are the same type and weight.
- Avoid mixing different components in the same count.
Very small variations in individual item weight can affect counting accuracy, so choosing the correct scale capacity and readability for your parts is important.
Counting Scale Sales and Hire
If your business needs to reduce stock take time, improve inventory accuracy or count small parts more efficiently, a counting scale could be a simple and effective solution.
Total Weighing can provide advice on suitable counting scale options for your application, with both sale and hire options available.
Call us today on 01327 368020 to discuss your counting scale requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a counting scale do?
A counting scale calculates the quantity of items placed on the scale by using the average weight of a sample item. This allows operators to count large quantities quickly without manually counting each piece.
Can a counting scale reduce stock take time?
Yes. Counting scales can significantly reduce the time needed to count small parts, components and inventory items, particularly where large quantities of identical parts are involved.
Do I need to know the weight of each item first?
No. In a typical counting process, you place a known sample quantity on the scale and enter that quantity. The scale calculates the average piece weight automatically.
What types of items can be counted?
Counting scales are commonly used for small, identical items such as fixings, engineering components, electronic parts, packaging items and production materials.
Are counting scales available to hire?
Yes. Total Weighing offers both sale and hire options, depending on your requirements and how often you need the equipment.
Service and calibration contracts are an effective way to keep your scales and weighing equipment accurate, safe and ready to use throughout the year. If your business depends on reliable weighing results, a planned maintenance contract can help reduce downtime, support compliance processes and extend the working life of your equipment.
At Total Weighing Solutions, we offer both Quarterly, 6-monthly and annual scale service and calibration contracts, tailored to suit your operational requirements. These contracts are especially valuable for mission-critical weighing equipment used in manufacturing, logistics, laboratories, warehousing, processing and industrial environments.
Why Regular Scale Servicing Matters
Scales that are regularly maintained generally work better, provide more reliable results and last longer. After all, a weighing scale is only useful if the results it provides are accurate and repeatable.
Our engineers check that your weighing equipment is operating correctly and within its own parameters. Where required, we can recalibrate equipment to bring it back into tolerance and provide documentation for your records.
What Is Included in a TWS Service and Calibration Contract?
For a fixed price, our engineers attend your site at an agreed time and carry out a structured inspection, service and calibration process. The aim is to ensure your scales are ready for use whenever you need them.
Typical duties include:
- Visual inspection of the weighing equipment
- Checks for physical damage, unsafe conditions or poor connections
- Linearity and repeatability testing
- Accuracy checks using certified test weights
- Recalibration where equipment is outside its own parameters
- Issue of a calibration certificate once testing is complete
Visual Inspection
One of the first checks we carry out is a visual inspection for physical defects. We look at whether the scale is connected correctly, free from damage and safe to use.
This is particularly important for weighing equipment used overhead, such as crane scales. If lifting or suspended weighing equipment is damaged or unsafe, the risk can be significant. Total Weighing Solutions is one of the few scale companies in the UK able to provide LOLER certificates for lifting equipment.
Linearity and Repeatability Checks
Reliable weighing equipment should produce consistent results. If the same load is applied several times, the scale should return the same reading each time. If half the load is removed, the reading should reduce accordingly. If the load is doubled, the indicated weight should increase in line with the applied load.
These checks help confirm whether the scale is behaving consistently across its weighing range. If results are inconsistent, our engineers will advise on the likely cause and any further work required.
Accuracy Testing with Certified Test Weights
Accuracy is checked by applying certified test weights to the scale and comparing the indicated reading with the applied load.
All scales, regardless of their accuracy class, operate within a defined tolerance. This tolerance is often based on the full-scale capacity of the equipment. Our engineers carry a wide library of calibration instructions for many different manufacturers, enabling them to recalibrate a wide range of weighing systems where required.
Calibration Certificate
Once the relevant tests have been completed and the accuracy of the scale has been confirmed, a calibration certificate is issued. This document details the tests performed and the results obtained, helping you maintain clear records for internal quality systems, audits and operational control.
6-Monthly vs Annual Calibration Contracts
The right service interval depends on how critical the scale is to your operation, how frequently it is used and the environment in which it operates.
| Contract Type | Best Suited For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 6-Monthly Service and Calibration | Mission-critical scales, high-use equipment, harsh environments and process-critical weighing | More frequent checks help identify issues sooner and support ongoing accuracy |
| Annual Service and Calibration | General weighing equipment, lower-use scales and scheduled quality system requirements | Cost-effective planned maintenance and documented calibration records |
Benefits of a Scale Service Contract
- Improved reliability: Regular maintenance helps keep weighing equipment working correctly.
- Reduced downtime: Planned service visits can identify problems before they become more serious.
- Accurate results: Calibration checks help ensure your equipment remains within its required parameters.
- Fixed-price servicing: Know the cost of your planned service and calibration visits in advance.
- Convenient site visits: Our engineers attend your premises at an agreed time.
- Calibration documentation: Certificates are issued after successful testing.
- Discounted repairs: Contract customers receive a 10% discount on parts required for repairs outside the standard service duties.
Who Should Consider a Service and Calibration Contract?
A planned service contract is recommended for any organisation that depends on weighing equipment for production, quality control, dispatch, goods-in, batching, formulation, stock control or safety-critical applications.
Typical customers include:
- Manufacturers and production facilities
- Warehouses and logistics companies
- Laboratories and research facilities
- Food, chemical and pharmaceutical processors
- Engineering and fabrication businesses
- Companies using crane scales or lifting-related weighing equipment
- Businesses with audit or quality documentation requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should scales be serviced and calibrated?
This depends on the scale, how often it is used, the working environment and how critical the weighing result is to your business. TWS offers both 6-monthly and annual service and calibration contracts to suit different operational needs.
Do you visit our site?
Yes. Under a service contract, our engineers attend your site at a convenient agreed time to carry out the required checks, servicing and calibration work.
What happens if a scale is outside tolerance?
If a scale is found to be outside its own parameters, our engineers will advise you. Where possible, they can recalibrate the scale and bring it back into tolerance.
Will we receive a calibration certificate?
Yes. Once the tests have been completed and accuracy is assured, a calibration certificate is issued detailing the checks performed and the results.
Are repairs included in the contract?
The standard contract covers the agreed service and calibration duties. If parts are required to repair a scale, these fall outside the standard service duties; however, TWS offers contract customers a 10% discount on required parts.
Request a Scale Service or Calibration Contract Quotation
If your weighing equipment is important to your business, regular servicing and calibration is a sensible investment. A TWS service contract helps keep your scales accurate, reliable and ready to use throughout the year.
To request a quotation for your scale service or calibration requirements, please call 01327 368020 or email sales@totalweighing.co.uk.
Choosing the right weighing scale is no longer just about finding a product that displays a weight. Modern weighing equipment can connect to shipping software, warehouse systems, packaging lines, medical records and data capture platforms.
Whether you are weighing parcels, pallets, people, vehicles, ingredients or industrial components, asking the right questions at the start will help you buy the correct scale first time. This guide explains the key points to consider before choosing a weighing scale for your application.
1. Start with Your Weighing Application
The first question is simple: what do you need to weigh? Your answer will usually point you towards the correct scale category.
- People or patients: choose medical scales.
- Boxes, parcels or components: consider bench scales, checkweighers or general industrial scales.
- Pallets or warehouse goods: look at pallet weighing solutions, pallet truck scales or platform scales.
- Vehicles or axle loads: consider axle pads or vehicle weighing systems.
- Laboratory samples: choose a precision balance or analytical balance suitable for the accuracy required.
Selecting the right category first gives you a much clearer view of the products available and avoids comparing equipment designed for completely different purposes.
2. Think About How the Scale Will Be Used
Once you know the broad application, consider the practical working environment. A scale used occasionally in a clean office will have very different requirements from one used all day in a busy despatch area.
For example, if you need to weigh pallets in a warehouse or despatch area, you may choose pallet weighing equipment or a platform scale. If you need to weigh babies in a maternity ward, you would select medical scales and then narrow the choice to baby scales.
Questions to Ask
- Will the scale be used indoors or outdoors?
- Will it be moved regularly or permanently installed?
- Is the area wet, dusty, harsh or hygienic?
- How many weighing’s will be carried out each day?
- Will operators need a large display or remote indicator?
- Does the scale need to integrate with other systems?
3. Choose the Correct Weighing Capacity
Capacity is one of the most important factors when choosing a scale. Always allow a sensible margin above the maximum weight you expect to weigh.
If you are regularly weighing items around 200 kg, a 300 kg capacity scale may be a better choice than a scale rated exactly to 200 kg. This gives you additional working capacity and helps avoid unnecessary stress on the weighing equipment.
Although many scales are protected from overloading and are load tested beyond their rated capacity, choosing a scale that comfortably meets your application can improve long-term reliability and future-proof your process.
Do Not Overestimate Too Much
It is important not to choose a capacity that is far higher than needed. In general, the higher the scale capacity, the larger the weighing increments. This means you may lose the level of detail you need for accurate weighing.
4. Understand Weighing Increments and Readability
After capacity, the next key specification is the increment, sometimes referred to as readability or resolution. This is the smallest step shown on the scale display.
For example:
- 30 kg x 10 g means the scale has a 30 kg capacity and displays weight in 10 g steps.
- 1500 kg x 0.5 kg means the scale has a 1500 kg capacity and displays weight in 0.5 kg steps.
The increment must be suitable for the job. If you need to check small differences in weight, a coarse increment may not provide enough detail. If you are weighing large pallets, very fine increments may be unnecessary.
Dual Capacity Scales
Some scales offer dual or triple capacity and increments. For example, a scale specified as 1500/3000 kg x 0.5/1 kg would weigh:
- Up to 1500 kg in 0.5 kg steps
- From 1500 kg up to 3000 kg in 1 kg steps
This can be useful because it effectively gives you more flexibility from one weighing system.
5. Select the Right Platform or Base Size
The platform size needs to suit the item being weighed. A pallet, drum, cage or large box must be properly supported on the scale to obtain an accurate reading.
It is sometimes possible to weigh an oversized item on a smaller platform, but the full load must be applied to the scale. If the item is touching the floor, leaning against a wall or supported by another object, the weight reading will not be accurate.
Platform Size Considerations
- Check the footprint of the items you weigh most often.
- Allow space for safe loading and unloading.
- Consider whether pallets will be loaded by hand pallet truck or forklift.
- Think about operator access, ramps and display visibility.
6. Check Whether You Need Trade Approved Scales
If you are selling or buying goods by weight, you may need trade approved weighing equipment. This also applies in certain medical environments where weight is used for prescribing medication.
These scales are commonly referred to as:
- Class III approved scales
- Trade approved scales
- Stamped scales
- CE-M approved scales
- Trading Standards approved scales
If your weighing result affects price, payment, treatment or legal compliance, it is important to confirm whether approved equipment is required before purchasing.
7. Decide What You Need to Do with the Weight Data
Modern weighing scales can do far more than display a weight. Many systems can capture, transmit and integrate weighing data with other business processes.
Depending on the scale and application, connectivity options may include integration with:
- Shipping and courier systems
- Warehouse management systems
- Packaging and production lines
- PC software and data logging systems
- Tablet PCs and mobile devices
- Medical records databases
- Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication systems
For example, axle pads may communicate with a tablet PC via Bluetooth, while pallet scales may connect to a Wi-Fi network to transmit data to a PC elsewhere in the building, or even to another location.
If you need your weighing equipment to interface with another system, it is worth discussing this before purchase. Connectivity is one of our specialist areas, and we can help identify the most suitable approach for your site.
Quick Scale Selection Checklist
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What are you weighing? | Determines the correct scale category, such as medical, industrial, pallet or vehicle weighing. |
| What is the maximum expected weight? | Helps you choose a safe and suitable capacity. |
| What increments do you need? | Ensures the scale displays weight with enough detail for your process. |
| What platform size is required? | Ensures the full load is properly supported for accurate weighing. |
| Are you buying or selling by weight? | May mean you need Class III trade approved equipment. |
| Do you need connectivity? | Important for data capture, reporting, shipping systems and automation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size weighing scale do I need?
You need a scale with enough capacity for your heaviest load and a platform large enough to support the item fully. It is sensible to choose a capacity slightly above your maximum expected weight, but not so high that you lose the increment detail you need.
What does 30 kg x 10 g mean on a scale?
This means the scale can weigh up to 30 kg and displays the weight in 10 g increments. For example, the display may move from 1.00 kg to 1.01 kg, then 1.02 kg, and so on.
Do I need trade approved scales?
If you are buying or selling goods by weight, or using weight for certain medical purposes such as prescribing medication, you may need Class III trade approved scales. If you are unsure, it is best to ask for advice before purchasing.
Can weighing scales connect to a computer or warehouse system?
Many modern weighing scales can connect to PCs, tablets, Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth devices and other systems, depending on the model and application. Connectivity should be considered early so the correct scale and interface options can be specified.
Is it better to choose a higher capacity scale?
A slightly higher capacity can be beneficial, but going too high may reduce weighing detail because larger capacity scales often have larger increments. The best choice balances safe capacity with the readability your process requires.
Need Help Choosing the Right Scale?
If you are unsure which weighing scale is right for your application, Total Weighing Solutions can help. Our team can advise on capacity, increments, platform size, trade approval, connectivity and system integration.
Call us on 01327 368020 or email sales@totalweighing.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
Commercial vehicles are regularly stopped by traffic police or the DVSA for weight limit checks. For fleet operators, logistics businesses, manufacturers and drivers, staying within legal vehicle weight limits is essential for safety, compliance and cost control.
Overloading a vehicle can lead to fines, prosecution, increased maintenance costs and serious safety risks. If an overloaded vehicle is involved in an accident, the consequences can be severe.
This guide explains the key risks of overloading, how to identify your vehicle’s weight limits, why axle weights matter and how vehicle weighing equipment can help you stay on the right side of the law.
Why Vehicle Overloading Is a Serious Risk
Vehicle overloading is not just a compliance issue. It can affect braking, steering, insurance, operating costs and the safety of everyone on the road.
Key consequences of overloading a commercial vehicle
- Insurance cover may be void: If your vehicle is overloaded, it is being operated illegally. In the event of an accident, your insurer may void your policy.
- Longer braking distances: A heavier vehicle takes longer to stop, increasing the risk of collisions, especially in emergency braking situations.
- Increased vehicle wear and tear: Overloading can significantly reduce the lifespan of tyres, suspension, brakes and other vehicle components.
- Reduced steering control: Excessive or poorly distributed loads can make a vehicle unstable and affect handling.
- Higher fuel consumption: Heavier loads require more fuel, increasing daily running costs across your fleet.
- Fines and prosecution: Operators and drivers may face penalties if a vehicle is found to exceed legal weight limits.
How to Find Your Vehicle’s Legal Weight Limits
Your vehicle’s weight limits are normally shown on the manufacturer’s plate or Department for Transport plate. This plate may be located:
- Under the bonnet
- Inside the cab
- On the vehicle chassis
- On the trailer chassis
The plate will usually show the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight and may also show the maximum permitted axle weights.
What Is Gross Vehicle Weight?
Gross Vehicle Weight, often abbreviated to GVW, is the maximum permissible operating weight of the vehicle.
This includes:
- Vehicle chassis
- Bodywork
- Engine
- Engine fluids
- Fuel
- Driver
- Passengers
- Cargo or load
Trailer weight is not included in GVW. Where a trailer is used, this comes under Gross Train Weight, commonly known as GTW.
You Can Be Under GVW and Still Be Overloaded
It is possible for a vehicle to be within its Gross Vehicle Weight and still be classed as overloaded. This usually happens when one or more axles exceed their permitted axle weight limit.
For example, a load placed too far forward or too far back may overload the front or rear axle, even if the overall vehicle weight appears legal.
Why axle weight matters
Axle weight limits are set to ensure the vehicle remains safe and stable on the road. Exceeding these limits can affect:
- Steering performance
- Braking efficiency
- Suspension wear
- Tyre safety
- Vehicle stability
To reduce the risk of axle overloading, loads should be distributed evenly and securely across the vehicle, taking care not to exceed individual axle limits.
How to Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
Do not rely solely on weights shown on invoices, delivery notes or picking lists. These figures may not reflect the full operating weight of the vehicle once fuel, equipment, driver, passengers and load distribution are taken into account.
The only reliable way to confirm compliance is to weigh the vehicle using suitable vehicle weighing equipment.
Vehicle weighing options for fleet operators
| Weighing solution | Best suited for | Typical benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Weighbridge | Depots, logistics sites, waste facilities and high-volume vehicle operations | Provides full vehicle weight checks and recorded weight evidence |
| Dynamic axle weigh scales | Fleet operators needing fast axle weight checks | Helps identify individual axle overload issues quickly |
| Portable axle weigh pads | Mobile checks, temporary sites and flexible fleet weighing | Allows vehicles to be checked at different locations |
Where possible, keep a printed or digital record of the weighing result. This may be useful if the vehicle is stopped for a weight check.
If you do not have access to weighing equipment
If your business does not have its own weighbridge, axle scales or portable weigh pads, your local Trading Standards team should be able to advise where your nearest public weighbridge is located.
Best Practice Tips for Staying Compliant
- Check the manufacturer’s plate before loading the vehicle.
- Understand both GVW and individual axle weight limits.
- Train drivers and loading teams on safe load distribution.
- Do not assume invoice or delivery note weights are accurate.
- Weigh vehicles before departure where possible.
- Keep weight records or printouts for traceability.
- Use suitable vehicle weighing systems for your operation.
- Review loading procedures if axle overloads occur regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my commercial vehicle is overloaded?
If your vehicle is overloaded, you may face fines, prosecution and increased liability in the event of an accident. Overloading can also invalidate insurance and create serious safety risks.
Is Gross Vehicle Weight the same as axle weight?
No. Gross Vehicle Weight is the maximum permitted operating weight of the entire vehicle. Axle weight refers to the load placed on each individual axle. A vehicle can be under its GVW but still illegal if an axle is overloaded.
Can I rely on invoice weights to confirm my vehicle is legal?
No. Invoice and picking note weights may not include all factors that affect the vehicle’s operating weight. The safest approach is to weigh the vehicle using a weighbridge, axle weighing system or portable weigh pads.
Where can I find my vehicle’s weight limits?
Weight limits are usually shown on the manufacturer’s plate or Department for Transport plate. This may be located under the bonnet, in the cab, on the vehicle chassis or on the trailer chassis.
What should I do if I do not have access to a weighbridge?
Contact your local Trading Standards team for advice on the nearest public weighbridge. Alternatively, fleet operators may wish to consider on-site vehicle weighing equipment such as axle scales or portable weigh pads.
Further Guidance and Vehicle Weighing Solutions
Further information on vehicle standards and enforcement can be found on the DVSA website: Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
If you need a reliable way to check vehicle weights, axle loads or fleet compliance, Total Weighing offers a range of vehicle weighing solutions for commercial and industrial applications.
View our vehicle weighing equipment or call 01327 368020 to discuss the most suitable option for your operation.
Contact Us
- Unit 8 Signal Park
Daventry
NN11 4RU, UK - (+44)1327 368020
- sales@totalweighing.co.uk
- Office Hours: 8AM - 5PM
- Monday - Friday
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