TextWarehouse scales are a necessary tool in any shipping or logistics department. Bills of lading need to be accurate and the best way to calculate the weigh of a load is to use a scale. Sure you can estimate the total weight of the shipment by adding up all the individual piece weights but checking overall pallet weight is still the most accurate method.
If you’re exploring scales, you have a few different options.
Fixed in place warehouse scales are installed in one location and powered with AC power. Some have display units that can be mounted on a wall or in other locations. They have a significant downside, however–they can only be in one place at any given time. If your operation has multiple shipping docks, forklift operators have to spend time driving loads over to the scale, sharing the scale with other drivers, and basically spending time sitting around until the scale becomes free.
Forklift hydraulic scales are a low price option. They estimate (some say guesstimate) the weight using sensors in the hydraulic system of the forklift. These systems are priced under $1000, require a forklift technician to install them, and operators frequently complain that they quickly go out of adjustment. It’s sort of a “poor mans” solution to the problem.
Forklift scales are a perfect solution. They’re mounted on the carriage of the forklift and allow operators to quickly determine the weight of the load. They are the most accurate mobile weighing solution.
Historically forklift scales have been very pricey, ranging from $6,000-$10,000 per forklift. In addition, there are a few other downsides. Forklift scales that are mounted on the carriage sometimes de-rate the forklift, that is, they move the load out away from the front of the forklift. Anytime you de-rate a forklift you need to order a new data tag from the forklift manufacturer to stay compliant with ANSI and OSHA guidelines. Also, some forklift scales require wiring of cables through the carriage, through the mast of the forklift to the operator compartment. In other words, the installation is not simple and it’s usually pricey.
There’s a better way and that’s with E-forks from Intella Parts.
E-forks are simple to install. Simply remove the old forks and replace with the heavy duty E-forks. Install the display unit somewhere on the overhead guard with the heavy duty clamp system. Turn on power and you’re in business!