Buying crane scales – what you need to know
Crane scales are essential for safe weighing of heavy loads directly during lifting – in industry, logistics, ports or construction. They are suspended from the crane and hold the weight above the lower hook or shackle. Load capacities range from a few hundred kilograms to over 100 tons, reliable and mobile.
1. types of scales & area of application
- Mechanical vs. digital – mechanical models are robust, digital models offer e.g. radio remote control, memory, network interfaces, operation via app or remote control
- Verifiable versions – required for commercial use (e.g. material sales), usually with CE-M marking.
2. load capacity & accuracy
- Weighing range: Select so that it is well above your maximum load – for shocks and safety reserve (2/3-1/3 rule of thumb)
- Resolution: Finer display with low load (e.g. 3,000 kg / 500 g). Precision is crucial for balancing and process control.
3. robustness & protection class
- IP protection: Outdoor or dusty environment? From IP65, often IP67, e.g. stainless steel housing recommended
- Temperature range: Pay attention to specified operating temperatures – otherwise high accuracy is jeopardized.
4. display & readability
- LED vs. LCD: LEDs ideal indoors, LCD with backlighting recommended in direct sunlight
- Options: Remote displays or radio displays ensure better visibility at a distance.
5. connectivity & additional functions
- Interfaces: USB, Bluetooth, WLAN, radio – integration in ERP, printer or cloud services possible
- Tare, peak and totalizing functions optimize the weighing process
- Overload warning protects load cell with audible and visual signals
6. safety & legal requirements
- Crane scales count as load handling attachments according to 2006/42/EC.
- Regular inspection intervals by trained personnel (visible damage) and certified calibration (e.g. max. every 3 months internally, annually externally)
- Overload reserve: Appliances are usually designed for 400-500 % of the nominal load.
7. energy supply & mobility
- Battery operation with exchangeable battery is important for mobile applications.
- Relevant tare weight: Lightweight models (e.g. <10 kg) are ideal for frequent changes of use.
8 Warranty, service & manufacturer quality
- Brand quality (e.g. KERN & Sohn, MSI, CAS) ensures availability of spare parts, support & software
- Comprehensive manufacturer support services: Replacement, remote maintenance, training, spare parts.
9. accessory options
- Practical additional accessories:
- Swivel hook, shackle with safety catch
- Carrier bag/case
- Radio remote displays
- Spare batteries & chargers
Checklist before purchase
| Parameters | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Load capacity & resolution | Choose generously above your max load with fine display |
| Protection & robustness | Stainless steel + IP 65/67 for outdoor operation |
| Display & readability | LED indoors, LCD / remote display outdoors |
| Interfaces | USB, wireless/Bluetooth, optional cloud connection |
| Energy supply | Battery with exchange option & long runtime |
| Security | Overload reserves, test cycles, calibration option |
| Manufacturer & Service | Renowned brands with spare parts supply & support network |
Answers to frequently asked questions about crane scales
❓ How does a digital crane scale work?
A digital crane scale measures the weight via a built-in load cell that registers tensile forces when a load is lifted. These forces are converted into an electrical signal via strain gauges, which is processed in the device and displayed as a weight value.
❓ Where are crane scales used?
Crane scales are used wherever loads are moved with a crane – e.g. in industry, logistics, steel construction, waste disposal, ports or foundries. Special models can also be used in potentially explosive or hygienically sensitive areas.
❓ What is the difference between a crane scale and a hanging scale?
Both types of scales measure tensile forces during lifting. The term “crane scale” usually refers to industrial models with a high load capacity and robust construction. Suspended scales are often more compact and intended for lighter applications.
❓ Does a crane scale have to be calibrated?
Verification is required if the crane scale is used in commercial transactions to determine prices. In this case, the intervals specified in the German Measurement and Verification Ordinance apply (e.g. every 2 or 3 years, depending on the load capacity).
❓ How often does a crane scale need to be maintained or calibrated?
For precise measurement results and safe use, the crane scale should be regularly calibrated and visually inspected – ideally annually or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Visible damage, deviating measurement results or frequent use are clear maintenance signals.
Do you still have questions? Are you missing any information? Please contact us, we will be happy to help you!
Let us advise you
With decades of experience in weighing technology, VISSER specializes in the professional use of crane scales. In our own workshop in Duisburg and with the Germany-wide service team of theESSMANN Group we offer maintenance, repair and servicing at the highest level – fast, reliable and manufacturer-independent. This reduces downtimes and ensures the long-term operational readiness of your scales.
Our technicians know the industry-specific requirements and legal regulations – and pass on their knowledge in a practical manner. We train your staff to use the scales safely and are always available to answer any questions you may have.
Scale builder tip:
Crane scales in the scales store
If you already know which crane scale you need, visit our scale store. Here you will find a large selection of configurable crane and hanging scales.
