Michigan runs a state-managed weights and measures program — commercial scale owners deal with the state agency directly. If you operate a commercial scale in Michigan — 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 Michigan?
State-run: the MDARD W&M program inspects and tests commercial devices (cost-recovery fees under P.A. 283 of 1964), while MDARD-registered service agencies and persons install, repair, and legally place devices in service.
What Michigan requires of scale owners
Devices must be placed into service by an MDARD-registered serviceperson (Place-in-Service Report filed); owners are subject to MDARD inspection and testing fees.
Getting a scale into service — 4 steps
- Buy a legal-for-trade (NTEP-certified) scale appropriate for your application and capacity.
- Confirm registration and licensing requirements with the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development ((517) 655-8202) before the scale enters commercial use.
- Arrange compliant installation and calibration. Where required, placing-in-service must be done by a licensed or registered service company.
- Stay compliant. Pass required inspections, keep calibration current, retain service records.
Common questions
Who certifies commercial scales in Michigan?
What does Michigan require of scale owners?
What is NTEP certification?
Where do I find official forms and fees?
Need calibration, repair, or installation in Michigan?
Send one request — ScaleRegistry routes it to qualified service providers for your state.