Scales are an essential tool for any business selling products by weight. However, there are a variety of retail scales to choose from with different features and functions. And while every commercial business has its own unique needs, there are some basic attributes to look for in a retail scale. Here are four of them.

Scale certification

Most importantly, your retail scale needs to be legal. Measurement Canada, an arm of the federal government, requires all scales used in a retail capacity to be inspected and certified as “legal for trade.” Scale certification protects the customer from paying too much for a product and shields you from financial losses due to measurement errors.

PLU functionality

If you have a business that sells a variety of items at different price points, then a retail scale with a Price Look-Up (PLU) feature is an invaluable tool. PLUs allow you to store products and their respective prices in the scale’s computer. It allows the cashier to weigh and price products with the push of a button, instead of inputting a bunch of numbers. A PLU function will make your business more efficient and improve the customer experience.

Waterproofness

No matter what your business sells, a retail scale that’s waterproof will make your life a whole lot easier. Whether you’re a grocer, run a deli or sell your products at an outdoor farmers market, waterproof scales are easiest to clean and sanitize. A scale with sturdy housing made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) will keep moisture, dust and debris from damaging the internal mechanisms. Look for a model with at least an IP66 rating.

Portability

Depending on what type of business you operate, portability can be a useful option in a retail scale. A rechargeable battery will allow you to move it to different locations in your store or to travel with it to markets, exhibitions and trade shows. In addition, you might find it useful to have a dual LCD screens (so the buyer and seller can both see the display), printing capacity and adjustable feet to ensure the scale is level.

Retail scales in Alberta

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we offer a variety of retail scales that will suit any business selling products by weight. We’re accredited by Measurement Canada and all our scales are legal for trade. We are also authorized to perform scale inspections. Our retail scales are available for sale or rent. To learn more or to get a free quote, contact us today.