Table of Contents
Introduction
Every dimensioning machine in the market, promises dimension accuracy, operational efficiency, efficient shipping, and minimizing transportation cost. But how do you know which one is the best and truly industrial grade from the multiple options available? That’s when the certification comes into the picture.
This blog aims to guide you through an in-depth exploration of Legal for Trade, providing a global overview of available certificates. It assists in choosing the most suitable certificate for your needs and underscores the significance of certification for dimensioning machines.
What Does Legal for Trade (LFT) Signify? Let’s Break it Down!
If a product is sold by weight or dimensions, the measuring equipment that is used for commercial purposes such as billing, invoicing or revenue recovery must be verified as ‘Legal for Trade’ or ‘trade approved’.
Legal for Trade indicates that the equipment has gone through rigorous tests to make sure it’s accurate and suitable for its intended use.
Periodic inspection and calibration by authorized personnel are necessary to maintain the accuracy and performance of the Legal of Trade device. Additionally, it must have a seal or a label that indicates its legal status and certification.
Who Certifies the Product as LFT?
Getting a Legal for Trade certification for a dimensioning machine is a meticulous process. Trusted groups, like government agencies or authorized organizations, carefully check to make sure the machine meets the right standards. Businesses should check for certifications from these trusted groups to be sure their dimensioning equipment is accurate.
Diverse Certifications for Dimensioning Machines
LFT certifications vary depending on the country or region and its intended use.
#1 NTEP
The National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) is a certification program by the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) in the United States that certifies the accuracy and reliability of weighing and measuring devices. Devices that receive NTEP certification are denoted with a unique “Certificate of Conformance (CoC)” number, indicating they meet the established standards for legal-for-trade (LFT) use. NTEP certification is primarily recognized and accepted throughout the United States. However, its validity may extend to Canada with Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for certain weighing devices.
#2 OIML
The role of Organisation Internationale de Métrologie Légale (OIML) is to harmonize the work of national bodies that are responsible for evaluating and approving measuring instruments subject to legal metrological control. OIML certification guarantees that the device complies with the standards and requirements set by the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) providing global standards for measurement instruments. OIML covers 18 categories of devices including dimensioning weight systems. OIML certification signifies that a product has undergone rigorous testing and meets the organization’s established accuracy and performance standards.
#3 MC
Measurement Canada (MC) certification is responsible for evaluating the design, composition, construction, and performance of weighing and measuring devices intended for trade use. MC is valid only within Canada. It ensures that the measuring instrument complies with legal metrology standards set by Measurement Canada for use in commercial transactions and trade activities within the country.
#4 NMI
The NMI, Australia’s National Measurement Institute tis responsible for maintaining and regulating the country’s measurement system. It evaluates the measurement accuracy of the measuring instrument or the dimensioning weight system and validates the retention of accuracy under different environmental and operating conditions. The NMI certificate is valid only within Australia.
As we have discussed the most commonly and widely recognized certificate for dimensioning machines. There are few required documentations depending on the type of industry, special features and applications.
The potential document requirements for a dimensioning machine are:
- ISO 9001: This international standard certifies that the dimensioning weight system is manufactured under a quality management system.
- IP (Ingress Protection) Rating: This rating indicates the level of protection the measuring instrument has against dust, water, and other environmental factors.
- CE Marking: This mark indicates that the dimensioning weight system complies with the safety, health, and environmental protection requirements of the European Union.
- NIST Traceability: This ensures the device is calibrated to a known standard and provides consistent results.
Why It Is Important to Have a Certified Dimensioning Machine
As you are now informed about certificates required for dimensioning weighing systems based on international trade. Let’s understand the importance of the certification.
Legal Compliance
Certified dimensioning machines adhere to legal metrology standards and ensures that the measurements align with the regulatory requirements. By aligning with the legal metrology standards, it validates your operations and reduces the risk of penalties associated with non-compliance.
Trade Accuracy and Consistency
A certified dimensioning machine guarantees that the measurements of packages and pallets are accurate and consistent, which can prevent disputes, penalties, or losses for shippers and carriers. Furthermore, it ensures that the dimensional weight or volume of packages and pallets is calculated accurately, which in turn can optimize space utilization, reduce shipping costs, and increase revenue recovery.
Reliability and Durability
A dimensioning weight system with the certificate validates the device is compatible and compliant with the industry standards and regulations, which can enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The certificate also ensures reliability and durability by reducing maintenance costs, downtime, and errors.
Trust
A certificate assures that the device is trustworthy and credible, which can improve the reputation and image of the shipper and the carrier. It also ensures that the device is transparent and traceable, which can facilitate the verification and validation of the measurements.
Conclusion
Being Certified means the dimensioning machine is accurate by the regulatory bodies, hence businesses who invest in certified dimensioning weighing machines not only adhere to legal standards but also position themselves for success in an industry where accuracy is the key to efficiency and customer satisfaction. Hence it is not just a formality; it is a strategic investment in accuracy, compliance, and customer satisfaction. The advantages go beyond just avoiding fines, they also create a basis for efficient operations, international trade, and building trust with customers. In a competitive marketplace, certification is a mark of reliability that sets your business on the path to sustained success.
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