When it comes to moving heavy loads, you need a cargo scale that can accurately weigh your shipment and help prevent overloaded trucks. However, with so many different scales on the market, how do you know which one is right for your needs?
Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right heavy-duty cargo scale for accurate and streamlined process control for your business.
What is a Cargo Scale?
A cargo scale is a device used to weigh large shipments. These scales are generally much larger and more heavy-duty than standard household scales, and they often come with features like remote displays and data output ports that make them more suitable for commercial use. You’ll often see cargo scales used at shipping docks, warehouses, and trucking terminals.
4 Different Types of Cargo Scales
While all cargo scales serve the same basic purpose, there are a few different types that you might encounter.
Here are four of the most common types of cargo scales:
Pancake Cargo Scale
A pancake cargo scale is a good option if you need a scale you can easily set up and take down. Pancake scales are built for portability, and they typically have ramps on all sides to make it easy to load and unload shipments. They can bear weights up to 20,000 pounds and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Ball Deck Cargo Scale
Ball deck cargo scales also have ramps on all sides, and they also have a series of large balls that can stabilize trailers during the weighing process. Ball deck scales are often used with cargo scales, such as platform or floor scales. They can also bear a weight of up to 20,000 pounds.
Caster Deck Cargo Scale
Like other cargo scales, caster deck cargo scales have ramps on all sides to make it easy to load and unload shipments. However, what sets this type of scale apart is its 360-degree castors, making it easy to move around. This makes it a good choice if you need a scale that you can use in multiple locations. It has four removable top panels that are great for accessing load cells and a weight capacity of 20,000 pounds.
Roller Deck Cargo Scale
Roller deck cargo scales allow cargo containers to roll on and off the weighing platform easily. They are also fully customizable, with rollers that can be aligned vertically or horizontally. You can configure roller deck scales to suit your application needs, making them a versatile option.
What Types of Businesses Benefit from a Cargo Scale?
Any business that ships large cargo shipments can benefit from using a cargo scale. This includes businesses in the transportation, warehousing, and manufacturing industries.
Here are a few examples of businesses that might use this scale:
- Farms: The farming industry ships large quantities of crops and livestock all over the country. Cargo scales are often used to weigh these shipments before loading them onto trucks or trailers.
- Chemical plants: Chemical plants often need to transport large tanks of chemicals, which can be weighed using a cargo scale. This ensures that the shipment is not overloaded and that the truck or trailer is safe to transport.
- Distilleries: Distilleries use cargo scales to weigh shipments of distilled spirits, such as whiskey and vodka. This helps them ensure that products are shipped safely and comply with regulations.
Which Type of Cargo Scale is Best for Your Business?
A cargo scale can be a valuable addition to any business that ships large cargo shipments, but with so many scales on the market, how do you know which one is right for your business? Never fear: Our experts at American Scale can help you select the perfect scale for your needs. Check out our selection of cargo scales on our website or give us a call today at 800-928-5005 to learn more!
