A pallet truck scale is a manual or powered pallet jack fitted with load cells and a display, so a load can be weighed while it is lifted and moved. It removes trips to a floor scale and is used for shipping weights, receiving checks and freight class calculations.
How it works
Load cells, typically in the forks or between the forks and the chassis, measure the weight once the load is raised clear of the floor. An indicator shows the weight and may store or print readings, or send them to a WMS. Battery life, capacity, graduation size and environmental rating vary by model.
Accuracy and legal for trade
Accuracy depends on the model and on proper use: the load must be fully lifted, centered and steady, and the floor reasonably level. If the weight is used to charge a customer or to bill freight, US weights and measures rules generally require a legal-for-trade device, which for most commercial scales means one with an NTEP certificate of conformance and local inspection. For internal checks a non-certified unit may be enough.
Why it matters
Accurate weights support correct freight class and NMFC declarations for LTL shipments, help avoid carrier reweigh charges, and confirm loads stay within pallet and rack ratings.
Related Terms
- Manual Pallet Jack
- Pallet Jack
- Walkie Pallet Jack
- Freight Class
- NMFC
- LTL
- Pallet Weight
- Pallet Load Capacity
- Browse all glossary terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pallet jack scale accurate enough for shipping?
For many shipping and receiving checks it is, provided the load is fully raised, centered and still, and the unit is calibrated. If weights are used to bill customers or carriers, check local weights and measures rules, which in the US usually call for an NTEP certified, legal-for-trade device. Otherwise a floor or platform scale may be required for those transactions.
How does a pallet scale help with LTL freight?
LTL pricing depends on freight class and weight, and many classes now depend on density, which needs accurate weight and dimensions. Weighing each pallet before pickup helps the bill of lading match what the carrier measures, reducing reclass and reweigh charges. It also helps confirm that loads stay within the rated capacity of the pallet and racking.