Accuracy and uptime are everything when it comes to pallet scales. An inaccurate reading doesn’t just throw off a single measurement, it can create costly ripple effects: incorrect shipments, wasted materials, compliance failures, and production delays. That’s why calibration is such a critical part of scale ownership.
The problem is, many pallet scales on the market require frequent, disruptive calibration and sometimes even sending the unit out of service for days at a time. At Arlyn Scales, we take a different approach. With more than 30 years of engineering experience, we’ve designed pallet scales that need little to no calibration, and when calibration is required, it can be done quickly in the field without costly downtime.
How Often Should You Calibrate a Pallet Scale?
The short answer: much less often with Arlyn Scales than with many competing models.
- Factory-calibrated from the start: Every Arlyn pallet scale is calibrated in our Long Island, NY facility before shipment, so it arrives ready to use.
- Self-calibration features: Our systems account for environmental shifts like temperature changes and component drift automatically.
- As-needed recalibration: Unlike competitor scales that require monthly or annual factory service, Arlyn scales typically only need recalibration if:
- The scale has been moved to a new location.
- You notice drift or inconsistent weight readings.
- The scale has experienced a shock load or environmental extremes.
This means most customers enjoy years of accurate, reliable readings with little to no calibration downtime.
How to Tell if Your Pallet or Platform Scale Needs Calibration?
It’s important to confirm whether calibration is necessary before making adjustments. Calibrating a scale that is already accurate can create errors. Here are common signs that calibration may be required:
- Scale movement: Relocating a scale often requires recalibration to ensure accuracy in its new environment.
- Inaccurate weight readings: If measurements are inconsistent, check for external factors such as vibrations, temperature fluctuations, or RF interference from electronics. If the issue persists, calibration may be needed.
Easy Step-by-Step Calibration Procedure for Industrial Pallet or Floor Scales
If you’ve purchased a scale from our team and think it may need to be calibrated, you can either contact our support team for confirmation or follow the steps below.
- Ensure proper placement – Before calibrating your scale ensure that it’s placed in an area where it’s not exposed to any type of air current and it is in an area with a stable temperature.
- Enter calibration mode – To enter the calibration mode on one of our pallet scales, access the Set-Up menu and then select Platform Setups and next Span Calibration. You will next be asked to enter a test weight value.
- Test weight value – When testing a weight value, you’ll want to ensure that the item you’re using is within the capacity restraints of the scale. We typically suggest that you choose an item that is around 50% of the scale’s capacity. Next, you’ll input the test calibration weight value using the keypad.
- Remove any other objects from the scale platform – Next, you’ll want to make sure the scale platform is clear of any objects. It’s also a good idea to check to ensure nothing is touching the scale platform and that the scale legs are level, and all touching the floor.
- Press ‘Calibrate’ – To access the calibration function simply press the Calibrate button on the scale itself.
- Place test weight on the platform – Now you’ll be asked to place a test weight item on the scale platform. Make sure this item is placed in the center of the scale platform. Wait a few seconds for the scale to stabilize. Once the calibration has been completed you’ll automatically return to the Platform menu and should be able to use the scale as normal.
Reliable Calibration with Arlyn Scales
Calibration doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With Arlyn Scales, you get pallet scales that hold accuracy for the long term, with built-in self-calibration and simple in-field procedures when adjustments are needed. That means less downtime, lower service costs, and more confidence in your day-to-day operations.
If you’re ready to move away from pallet scales that demand frequent recalibration, connect with our team today. We’ll help you find the right industrial scale solution to keep your operations accurate, reliable, and efficient — without the headaches.
