Pallet Jacks with Scale
Pallet jacks with integrated scales combine material movement and weighing in one operation—weigh as you lift and move, eliminating separate trips to floor scales. For shipping departments, inventory control, and quality applications, scale pallet jacks streamline workflows while providing the weight data needed for accurate documentation.
When every pallet needs weighing—for shipping calculations, inventory verification, or production tracking—a scale pallet jack pays for itself quickly in saved labor. This guide covers the models worth considering, key specifications, and how to choose the right weighing pallet truck for your operation.
How scale pallet jacks work
Basic operation
- Load cells built into fork structure measure weight
- Weight displayed on indicator mounted to handle or frame
- Lift pallet as normal—weight reading available immediately
- Move load while weight data is captured
Load cell technology
- Strain gauge load cells. Most common; reliable and accurate.
- Location. Typically in fork pivot points or load roller mounts.
- Configuration. Usually 2 or 4 load cells for full accuracy.
- Protection. Sealed against moisture and contamination.
Indicator/display
- Digital readout showing weight
- Battery-powered (rechargeable or replaceable)
- Functions: tare, hold, unit conversion
- Optional: printing, data output, memory
Types of scale pallet jacks
Manual with scale
Standard hand pallet truck with integrated weighing.
- Capacity. 2,000-2,500 kg (4,400-5,500 lb).
- Scale capacity. Usually matches jack capacity.
- Accuracy. ±0.1% to ±0.5% of full scale.
- Price range. $1,500-4,000.
Electric walkie with scale
Powered pallet truck with weighing capability.
- Capacity. 2,000-3,000 kg (4,400-6,600 lb).
- Features. Powered travel and lift plus weighing.
- Display. Often larger, more features.
- Price range. $6,000-15,000.
Legal-for-trade models
Certified for commercial transactions.
- Certification. NTEP (US), OIML (international).
- Use. When weight determines pricing.
- Accuracy. Must meet certification requirements.
- Price premium. 20-40% over non-certified.
Stainless steel scale jacks
For food, pharmaceutical, and washdown environments.
- Construction. Stainless steel frame and components.
- Protection. Often IP65 or higher rated.
- Applications. Food processing, pharma, clean rooms.
- Price range. $3,000-8,000.
Key specifications
Scale specifications
| Specification | Typical Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,000-5,000 kg | Must exceed maximum loads |
| Accuracy | ±0.1% to ±0.5% | Tighter for billing/trade |
| Resolution | 0.5-2 kg (1-5 lb) | Smallest readable increment |
| Repeatability | ±0.1% to ±0.2% | Consistency of readings |
Display features
- Tare function. Zero out pallet weight.
- Hold. Lock reading after lifting.
- Unit conversion. kg/lb switching.
- Totalization. Running total of multiple pallets.
- Memory. Store readings for later retrieval.
- Data output. RS-232, USB, Bluetooth for computers/printers.
Physical specifications
| Specification | Typical Values |
|---|---|
| Fork length | 1,150-1,220 mm (45-48 in) |
| Fork width (outside) | 540-685 mm (21-27 in) |
| Lowered height | 75-85 mm (3-3.3 in) |
| Unit weight | 90-130 kg (200-290 lb) |
Applications
Shipping and receiving
- Verify incoming shipment weights
- Calculate outbound shipping charges
- Document weights for bills of lading
- Catch discrepancies immediately
Inventory management
- Weigh-count inventory (weight ÷ unit weight = count)
- Verify inventory during movement
- Track material usage by weight
- Cycle counting by weight
Production and manufacturing
- Verify batch weights
- Track material consumption
- Quality control checks
- Production output measurement
Waste and recycling
- Weigh scrap and recyclables
- Document waste for reporting
- Track disposal costs
Models to consider
Premium tier
Crown PTH 50S Scale
- Capacity: 2,270 kg (5,000 lb)
- Accuracy: ±0.1%
- Features: Large display, data output, robust construction
- Best for: High-volume, professional environments
- Price: $3,500-5,000
Ravas RPW
- Capacity: Up to 3,000 kg
- Accuracy: ±0.1%
- Features: OIML certified options, wireless display
- Best for: Legal-for-trade applications
- Price: $4,000-6,000
Mid-range tier
Vestil PM-2748-SCL
- Capacity: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb)
- Accuracy: ±0.2%
- Features: Standard functions, LED display
- Best for: General industrial use
- Price: $2,000-3,000
Wesco 274714
- Capacity: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb)
- Accuracy: ±0.5%
- Features: Basic functions, reliable
- Best for: Standard shipping applications
- Price: $1,800-2,500
Value tier
Noblelift PTE33N-II Scale
- Capacity: 2,500 kg
- Features: Basic scale functions
- Best for: Budget-conscious operations
- Price: $1,500-2,000
Selection criteria
Key questions
- What is maximum load weight to measure?
- What accuracy is required?
- Is legal-for-trade certification needed?
- What data output is needed?
- What environment will it operate in?
- Manual or electric operation preferred?
Accuracy requirements
| Application | Recommended Accuracy |
|---|---|
| Internal inventory | ±0.5% acceptable |
| Shipping estimates | ±0.2-0.5% |
| Billing/invoicing | ±0.1-0.2% (certified may be required) |
| Quality control | ±0.1% or better |
Environment considerations
- Standard warehouse. Most models suitable.
- Food/pharma. Stainless steel, washdown rated.
- Outdoor/dusty. Sealed load cells, protected display.
- Cold storage. Verify temperature rating.
Maintenance
Calibration
- Regular calibration maintains accuracy
- Annual calibration minimum; more for trade use
- Use certified test weights
- Document calibration for quality systems
Battery care
- Charge regularly (most use rechargeable)
- Replace batteries when capacity drops
- Keep spare battery for continuous use
General maintenance
- Keep load cells clean and dry
- Check for damage after impacts
- Verify accuracy with known weights periodically
- Standard pallet jack maintenance applies
See our pallet jack maintenance guide.
Pricing summary
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Manual with basic scale | $1,500-2,500 |
| Manual with advanced scale | $2,500-4,500 |
| Legal-for-trade certified | $3,500-6,000 |
| Stainless steel | $3,000-8,000 |
| Electric with scale | $6,000-15,000 |
Top manufacturers
- Ravas. Scale-focused company; high accuracy.
- Crown. Quality equipment with scale options.
- Presto. Industrial scale trucks.
- Vestil. Range of scale pallet jacks.
- Rice Lake. Weighing equipment specialist.
- Fairbanks. Scale manufacturer with pallet trucks.
Related topics
- Pallet jack types - Complete equipment overview
- Pallet jack weight limits - Capacity guide
- Electric pallet jacks - Powered options
- Pallet jack brands - Manufacturer comparison