Sometimes we forget how complicated it can be for customers to find the correct scales and weighing equipment for their particular application. So when folks come to us searching for where to buy a shipping scale, naturally we tell them, right here on this website! And fortunately many folks do purchase a UPS or Fedex style shipping scale from us. But what are some of the other choices for shipping scales and what about some of these popular shipping questions below?
How to get a Free USPS scale?
We don’t offer any free scales but if you’re looking to ship very small items, you might consider the Stamps website. I think if you join that they might send you a free 5 lb capacity device.
Do Postal Scales need to be Calibrated?
Yes postal scales need to be calibrated periodically. How often? Depends on how often the scale is used and how rough the scale is handled over time.
Can You use Bathroom Scales to Weigh Parcels?
In a pinch you could use your bathroom scale to weigh shipping boxes. However, we don’t recommend that you do this in the long run.
What Scale does UPS Use?
In our experience, most of the time the UPS stores seem to be using Mettler Toledo BC60 scales for their retail shipping.
How do I Ship a Package Without a Scale?
To ship a box without a scale is scary. You more than likely are going to need to guess at the weight. You may be lucky and use a flat rate shipping which usually eliminates the need to precisely weigh the box. However, in most cases, you need to accurately weigh and measure your boxes before the big brown truck arrives at your door.
How Accurate are Shipping Scales?
Quality shipping scales like the ones that we offer are designed to be within 0.1 of one percent accuracy. Some of the cheaper scales online will likely have some trouble maintaining that level of accuracy. In the past we’ve mentioned some of the cut corners that scales produced overseas go through.
What happens if my UPS Package is Heavier than the Label?
You will most likely be billed for the larger weight on your next statement. Remember the shipping carriers are looking at box weights and dimensions as well.
What Scale is Best for Shipping?
You can buy a lesser style shipping scale at your local office supply store more than likely. And, some websites online will mention scales like Tree and Brecknell…. but in our opinion when it comes to scales for shipping departments, it’s pretty hard to beat the durability and accuracy of the Mettler Toledo line of shipping scales. We’ve sold them for years and we actually use one everyday too! We also like the Rice Lake and Avery Weigh-Tronix shipping scales as well. It’s all about precision, value, durability, and user-friendly instructions.
Where to Buy Scales?
So what is the answer? Where should I buy a shipping scale? I would say number one, if you can buy locally from a nearby scale company then you should do that. You can likely drive to their location and discuss what’s available. They also will be able to check and calibrate the scale for you periodically.
If you can’t find a local scale company, then we recommend you buy your shipping scales from a reputable online scale dealer like us. We can recommend the correct scales for your weighing requirements.
Final Thoughts on Shipping Scales and Where to Buy Them
As we wrap up this Where to Buy a Shipping Scale entry, I just browsed through a couple of the big websites and WOW! do they have some cheap scales available! I saw a few scales with 440 lb capacity and even 660 lb capacity and they were less than $100. Seems like a great deal, right! Actually, I would say not really.
As we mentioned earlier, scales that are manufactured overseas can be designed to meet just about any price point that you’re looking for. The problem is that usually that price point is pretty low and the quality matches perfectly. So, one of these cheap shipping scales might be a good choice long enough to leave a five star review, however, the odds are you’re not going to be leaving a great review twelve months later when you’re having to buy another shipping scale.