This updated guide explains modern shipping-scale types - postal, platform and pallet - highlights features such as capacity, connectivity (USB/Bluetooth/Wi-Fi), tare and legal-for-trade certification, and offers buying tips: match capacity to needs, choose certified models for commerce, check platform size, and prefer models that integrate with your shipping software.

Shipping scales let you measure letters, tubes, parcels and boxes accurately so you pay the right postage and avoid delays. Modern scales range from compact postal models for home businesses to heavy platform and pallet scales for warehouses.

Common types and uses

  • Postal/bench scales: Compact tabletop units for letters and small packages. They usually offer tare, hold and multiple unit displays (ounces/grams/pounds/kilograms).
  • Platform scales: Larger flat decks for medium-to-large parcels and boxes. Often used by retail backrooms and small warehouses.
  • Heavy-duty and pallet scales: For high-volume or industrial shipping; built to handle hundreds to thousands of pounds.
  • Specialized: Check-weighing models, portion-control scales for inventory, intrinsically safe units for hazardous environments.

Key features to look for

  • Capacity and readability: Match the scale capacity and resolution to your largest and smallest items. Consumer postal scales often cover low-capacity ranges; platform and pallet scales cover much higher weights.
  • Connectivity: Many scales now include USB, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for direct connection to computers, tablets or shipping software (examples: integration with carrier/labeling apps and cloud shipping platforms).
  • Legal-for-trade / certification: If you use a scale for commercial sales or billing, choose an NTEP/NCWM-approved ("legal-for-trade") model in the U.S. to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Tare, hold and unit conversion: Tare removes container weight. Hold locks the displayed value after removal. Look for quick unit switching between lb/oz and kg/g.
  • Platform size and attachments: Ensure the platform fits typical package dimensions; many postal scales include letter trays or removable platters.
  • Power: Options include AC adapters, replaceable batteries, and rechargeable/USB-powered units.

Accuracy, calibration and maintenance

Check the resolution (smallest increment) and calibration procedure. Many digital scales include user calibration with test weights; some require service calibration for high-accuracy or legal-for-trade use. Keep platforms clean and level for consistent readings.

Buying tips

  • Match capacity to your daily needs rather than the maximum you might rarely hit.
  • Prioritize certified models if you charge customers by weight.
  • Look for models with connectivity if you print labels or integrate with shipping platforms.
  • Read current user reviews and verify warranty, return policies and replacement-part availability.
Choosing the right shipping scale reduces postage errors, protects margin, and speeds handling. Whether you ship a few packages a week or run a high-volume fulfillment center, focus on capacity, accuracy, connectivity and certification when you compare models.
  1. Confirm typical capacity ranges by category (postal/bench, platform, pallet) and update numeric examples if specific limits are cited.
  2. Verify common connectivity features across current models and typical software integrations (carrier and label platforms) for 2025.

FAQs about Shipping Scale

Do I need a certified (legal-for-trade) scale?
If you charge customers by weight or use the weight for billing, choose an NTEP/NCWM-approved (legal-for-trade) scale in the U.S. to meet regulatory and marketplace requirements.
What capacity should I buy for an online store?
Match the scale capacity to the heaviest package you routinely ship. For small home businesses, a postal or bench scale is usually sufficient; consider a platform or pallet scale for larger parcels or higher volume.
How important is connectivity?
Connectivity (USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is valuable if you print labels, import weights to shipping software, or track inventory. It speeds workflows and reduces manual entry errors.
How do I keep a scale accurate?
Keep the scale level and clean, calibrate it per the manufacturer instructions (some allow user calibration with test weights), and schedule professional calibration for legal-for-trade or high-accuracy needs.