Weighing and POS Scale Terminology
Trade Approved, Verified, Stamped? Scale Terms Explained
Buying a scale in Australia comes with its own language — and some legal requirements. This guide explains the key terms, when you need a trade approved scale, and how a scale becomes legal for trade.
Shop Trade Approved Scales All ScalesDo I Need a Trade Approved Scale?
Simply put: if you sell goods or services priced by weight, you need a trade approved scale. If you only weigh things internally, a non-trade scale is usually all you need.
You price or charge by weight, for example:
- Butchers, delis, bakeries and green grocers
- Supermarkets and convenience stores
- Coffee roasters and bulk food stores
- Post offices and parcel services charging by weight
Includes counter, POS-interface, label-printing, bench, floor and pallet scales.
You weigh for internal purposes only, for example:
- Weighing parcels to calculate your own courier costs
- Warehouse, stock and inventory control
- Laboratories and portion control
- Counting parts
Non-trade scales don’t need NMI approval or verification, so they generally cost less.
Key Scale Terms
Trade Approved (Pattern Approved)
Also: legal for trade, NMI approvedThe scale’s design (model) has been tested and approved by the National Measurement Institute and given an NMI approval number. Only approved models can be used for trade.
Non-Trade Approved
Also: non-legal-for-trade, internal useA scale used for internal purposes only — such as warehousing, shipping, laboratories or stock control. It doesn’t need NMI approval and can’t be used to price goods sold by weight.
Verification
Required for trade useEach individual trade scale is tested by an NMI-licensed servicing licensee before it’s used for trade, and a verification mark is applied. It must be re-verified after any repair or adjustment.
Calibration
Recommended for every scaleTesting and adjusting a scale against certified test weights so it reads accurately. Trade scales are calibrated as part of verification; non-trade scales should also be calibrated regularly to keep your weights reliable.
Stamping / Certification
Everyday terms for verification“Stamping” refers to the verification mark (sticker or seal) placed on a trade scale once it passes testing. Keep the verification paperwork for any NMI inspection.
Servicing Licensee
The people who verify scalesA business licensed by the NMI to test and verify trade measuring instruments. They — not the NMI itself — carry out most verifications.
How a Scale Becomes Legal for Trade
NMI approves the model
The manufacturer submits the scale design to the NMI for testing and receives an approval number.
Scale is calibrated
A servicing licensee tests and adjusts your individual scale using certified test weights.
Scale is verified
Once it passes, a verification mark is applied and a report is issued for traceability.
Keep it compliant
Re-verify after any repair or adjustment, and keep your paperwork for NMI inspections.
Why Does It Matter?
Fair trade
Accurate scales mean customers aren’t overcharged and you aren’t giving stock away.
It’s the law
NMI trade measurement inspectors check businesses, and short-measuring customers can lead to fines.
Why trade scales cost more
NMI approval involves lengthy testing and significant investment by the manufacturer, plus verification of each unit.
Popular Scales
Official Information
For the full rules, see the National Measurement Institute’s guidance:
- National Measurement Institute (NMI)
- Australia’s measurement system
- Buying and selling goods and services by weight and other measurements
This guide is general information only. Check the NMI website or contact the NMI for advice on your specific situation.
Not sure which scale you need?
Tell us what you’re weighing and how you sell — we’ll recommend the right scale. Email info@compubox.com.au
