What is a Trade Approved scale?
A Trade Approved scale is a weighing scale that is approved for use when an item is being priced based on its weight. In many countries, including the UK, Trade Approved weighing scales must be used by law for items priced and sold by their weight.
Trade Approved scales undergo rigorous testing for accuracy and reliability. Trade-approved scales provide more accuracy than non-approved scales. This ensures the buyer receives the correct amount when they make a purchase, and gives the buyer protection.
Trade Approved scales may also be referred to as verified scales, legal for trade scales and stamped scales. Trade Approved scales carry an ‘M’ (for ‘metrology’) logo on their dataplate.
Why must a Trade Approved scale be used?
Weights & Measures legislation has required the use of Trade Approved scales in trading for over a century. The legislation, which today is the Weights & Measures Act 1985, is in place to protect the customer as well as the seller. It ensures that the correct price for an item(s) is quoted when that price has been based on the weight reading.
Additionally, all scales used for such purposes are tested to the same standard so that there will be no differences between readings if two different scales are used to weigh the same item.
Where can I find out more?
If you are unsure whether or not you need to use a Trade Approved scale, speak to the Marsden team. We are able to advise on whether you should be using stamped scales, and we can also direct you to the most appropriate scales for your application. You can speak to us on 01709 364296.