Verification of Scales

FAQ on the Legal-for-trade and Verification of Scales

When do you need a verified scale?

As soon as they take part in legal metrology. This includes, for example

✔ the sale of goods by weight
✔ the calculation of fees based on weight
✔ the production or inspection of packaged goods
✔ the weighing of vehicles
✔ the determination of body weight for medical purposes
✔ the manufacture or dosing of pharmaceuticals.

For further details, please refer to the Calibration Act.

What must be observed with legal-for-trade scales?

Legal-for-trade scales lose their verification capability if they are not verified by the manufacturer before shipping. Therefore, it is advisable to verify before purchase whether the scale must be verified.

What are legal-for-trade scales?

Legal-for-trade scales are not yet verified but meet the requirements to be verified.

What are verified scales?

Verified scales are measuring devices that are legal-for-trade and verified. The verification is performed directly at the factory through the manufacturer’s initial calibration. Subsequent verification by one of the German verification authorities is therefore unproblematic, as all legal requirements are met.

Learn in the following article how a professional industrial scale is verified and what to consider when purchasing a new one.

How can you identify a verified scale?

Since April 20, 2016, verified scales, also known as “conformity-assessed” scales, must display specific markings. These regulations are set forth in Article 15 et seq. of Directive 2014/31/EU and ensure that the scales meet the European standards for measurement accuracy and reliability.

Type plate for verified scales

1. Type of scale: Designation or model of the scale
2. Serial number of the scale: Unique identification number of the device
3. Gravitation zone: Range for adjusting to different gravitational accelerations
4. Number of the type authorisation: Approval marking for the design of the scale
5. Accuracy class / verification class: Classification according to legal and metrological requirements
6. Nominal temperature range: Temperature range in which the scale operates properly
7. Safety mark with the status of the verification counter: In this example, the verification counter is set at 2

W1 – Weighing range 1 with adjusted values
W2 – Weighing range 2 with adjusted values (only for dual-range scales)

Max – Maximum load
Min – Minimum weight (20 d)
e= – Verified value (legally permitted division step of the scale)

• CE Marking: This is a fundamental mark that indicates the product complies with the applicable EU regulations.
• Metrology Marking: This consists of a rectangle containing the letter “M” and the last two digits of the year in which the marking was applied. The rectangle should be adjusted in height and positioned directly next to the CE mark, immediately behind it.
• Notified Body: The number of the conformity assessment body that certifies the correctness of the conformity assessment (EC verification) to be carried out by the manufacturer for non-automatic weighing instruments. Products bearing this marking comply with Directive 2014/31/EU regarding the placing of non-automatic weighing instruments on the market. The company BOSCHE uses the number 0200.

These markings are often found on the type plate of the scale, but may vary depending on the manufacturer and model.

By observing these features, you can ensure that a scale is approved for legally regulated trade and provides the precision required for commerce, healthcare, and other applications demanding accurate measurements.

Changes Effective from January 1, 2025

From January 1, 2025, the previous registration requirement (user notification) for verified scales will be eliminated. This is part of the Fourth Administrative Relief Act.

 Info Sheet on the Elimination of the Notification Requirement 2025.pdf

What remains unchanged?

• Verification Requirement: Regular calibration remains in effect. For more information on the calibration requirement for scales in industry and commerce, please see here:
  

   Info Sheet on the Calibration Requirement for Scales in Industry and Commerce.pdf

• Verification Intervals: The intervals remain unchanged (e.g., 2 years for shop scales).
• Timely Application: You must continue to arrange for calibration in a timely manner with the responsible calibration authority.
  
  

Lifecycle and verification of a legal-for-trade scale

Scales undergo a defined process from manufacturing to regular subsequent verification. The individual steps are summarized briefly below:

1. Scale Manufacturing
   In this first step, all components are produced and assembled. This creates a stable foundation for reliable measurement performance.
2. Adjustment of the Scale
   After manufacturing, the scale is adjusted using calibrated test weights to ensure precise measurement accuracy and to correct any deviations.
3. Conformity Assessment (Initial Calibration)
   Subsequently, a conformity assessment—also referred to as the “initial calibration”—is performed. This confirms that the scale meets all legal requirements. This is visibly indicated by the CE mark and the associated calibration mark.
4. Sale and Market Release
   After successful conformity assessment, the scale is introduced to the market and can be put into operation.
5. Registration of the Scale
   From January 1, 2025, the previous obligation to register (user notification) with the verification authority is eliminated. However, the verification requirement itself remains in effect; users must continue to have their scales inspected at the legally prescribed intervals.
6. Subsequent verification
   Depending on the application, scales are recalibrated at specific intervals (e.g., every two, three, or four years). These regular inspections ensure consistently high measurement accuracy and confirm that the scale operates within permissible tolerances. All deadlines and requirements must continue to be observed, and the inspections must be requested in a timely manner with the responsible calibration authority.