Hawaii Scale Certification & Weights and Measures

Hawaii runs a state-managed weights and measures program — commercial scale owners deal with the state agency directly. If you operate a commercial scale in Hawaii — at a warehouse, farm, recycling yard, retail store, or truck stop — here is who regulates it, what the law requires, and exactly who to contact.

Who inspects commercial scales in Hawaii?

State model: the Measurement Standards Branch's Standards and Trade Practices Enforcement inspectors test commercial measuring devices (scales, gas pumps, taximeters, odometers), packages, labeling and pricing statewide under HRS ch. 486; there is no county weights and measures system. Owners deal directly with the branch in Honolulu.

What Hawaii requires of scale owners

Commercial devices must pass branch inspection and bear the Measurement Standards Branch seal of approval - the site states a device with no seal 'is being used illegally.' Owners should contact the branch at (808) 832-0690 to arrange device testing; no online device registration form or fee schedule is published.

Getting a scale into service — 4 steps

1. Buy a legal-for-trade (NTEP-certified) scale appropriate for your application and capacity.
2. Confirm registration and licensing requirements with the Hawai'i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity ((808) 832-0690) before the scale enters commercial use.
3. Arrange compliant installation and calibration. Where required, placing-in-service must be done by a licensed or registered service company.
4. Stay compliant. Pass required inspections, keep calibration current, retain service records.

Common questions