Forklift Scale Buying—5 Important Factors to Consider

Woman wearing a hard hat and driving an by Avery Weigh Tronix QTLTSC Forklift Scale used for Class III Forklifts

A forklift scale is essential to doing business in many industries. From agriculture to manufacturing, these devices help companies keep track of their inventory levels and ensure that their products are being weighed accurately, which can ultimately increase productivity and revenue for your business.

What exactly is a forklift scale? How do you find the best option if you’re on the hunt for one? Which features should you consider? Here are answers to your questions and some main features to look for in a quality forklift scale.

What Is a Forklift Scale?

A forklift scale is a platform placed on a lift truck’s forks. It is used to weigh loads during transport. The scale is an essential part of any warehouse’s inventory management system, as it helps to ensure accuracy when tracking shipments in and out of the facility.

There are many different types of forklift scales on the market, each with its own features and benefits.

How Does a Forklift Scale Work?

Forklift scales have hydraulic sensors that measure the weight of the load on the forks. The data from these sensors is then transmitted to a display panel. Finally, it displays the weight of the load in real time.

Some also have built-in printers, which print out a receipt with the weight of the load and the date and time it was weighed. 

However, it is important to note that not all forklift scales are created equal. Some models are more accurate than others, and some have more features than others. Therefore, when shopping for one, it is essential to compare different models and find one that meets the specific needs of your business.

Why Use a Forklift Scale?

Depending on your industry, you might need to weigh materials before shipping them out. A forklift scale can make this process much easier and more efficient.

With a forklift scale, you can weigh your materials right on the truck without stopping and transferring them to a separate scale. Doing so can save you time and money. Here are some reasons to use them:

  • Portable: Since the scale is on the truck, you can take it with you wherever you go.
  • Easy to Use: The scale is designed to be used with a lift truck, so it’s easy to operate.
  • Convenient: You can weigh your materials on the truck without transferring them to a separate scale.
  • Accurate: The scale is calibrated to be very accurate, allowing you to trust the results.

Applications of Forklift Scales

Forklift scales are a common sight in many industries. Some applications of life truck scales include:

  • Inventory Control: Forklift scales can be used to keep track of inventory levels. A company can get a better idea of how much product they have on hand by weighing incoming and outgoing shipments.
  • Agriculture: The agriculture industry uses them to weigh harvested crops. They use this information to determine how much the crop is worth and how you should price it. Likewise, these scales can also be used in livestock operations to weigh animals.
  • Waste Tracking: Waste tracking is vital for environmental reasons. By weighing waste before disposal, a company can track its waste output and work to reduce it.
  • Shipping: Freight carriers are checking the weight on packages before and during shipments.

5 Important Factors to Consider for A Forklift Scale Purchase

Avery Weigh Tronix QTLTS forklift scale

A forklift scale is a massive investment, therefore, you must ensure you’re buying the best scale for your needs. 

There are many factors to consider when looking for a new or used fork lift scale. Here are some main features to look for:

1. Accuracy

You want a scale that is going to give you accurate readings so that you can make sure your products are correctly weighed. Otherwise, you’ll end up with incorrect results that could lead to a loss of reputation, money, and time.

The  QTLTS forklift scale from American Scale is ideal if you need up to 99% weight accuracy. Besides being highly accurate, they also withstands 200% of total capacity and boasts compatibility with the FLI225 forklift scale weight indicator.

2. Safe Usage

Working with heavy machinery and sharp fork tips can be dangerous. Look for a forklift scale with safety features to help protect you and your workers.

3. Legality

The scale must be legal for trade if you want to use it for applications involving product weights. For example, if you need a scale for a distribution center, you’ll want to ensure that the scale is  NTEP (National Type Evaluation Program) approved.

The American Scale  FLSC forklift scale is trade approved and has an open center area, allowing the driver to see the fork tips clearly, avoiding any harm. More importantly, the scale has a robust design, which means you can dismantle it and move it to any other truck in just a matter of minutes.

4. Installation

Some forklift scales are easier to install than others. It’s best to go with a scale that doesn’t require any modifications to the truck and can be installed quickly.

5. Durability

These scales go through a lot of wear and tear, especially if used in a busy warehouse or distribution center. Therefore, you want a scale made from durable materials that can withstand constant use.

The  American Scale QTLTS forklift scales are made for Class III forklift trucks and can stand the test of time without an issue. Since there are no hydraulics, springs, or flexures in this scale, the design is virtually break-proof.

Find the Best Forklift Scale

If you’re looking for the best forklift scale, you’re in the right place. American Scale is a leading provider of scales for purchase or rent. Plus, you can get your existing scales serviced or calibrated to maintain accuracy.

Contact us today to learn how our products and services can transform the way you do business.