Can You Use A Kitchen Scale To Weigh Packages | Weighing Procedure, Pros & Cons

We all know that packages weigh more than they used to. And we also know that shipping companies charge us based on the accurate measurement of our package. So, if you’re wondering if you can use a kitchen scale to weigh packages, here’s the answer.

Yes, you can use kitchen scales to weigh packages. However, you don’t need an expensive one. All you need is a digital kitchen scale. There are pros and cons to each model, so let’s discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using a kitchen scale to weigh package contents.

Types of Kitchen Scale

While weighing packages is convenient, it does require a kitchen scale or food scales. There are different types of scales available, including digital, analog, and mechanical. Each type offers advantages and disadvantages.

Digital scales

Digital kitchen scales or food scales are small devices that measure weight in grams. They usually come with a display screen that shows the weight of the object placed on top of it.

Digital scales are easy to use and inexpensive. However, they aren’t very accurate and tend to lose accuracy after a few years. Analog scales or postage scales are more accurate than digital scales, but they are bulky and expensive. 

Mechanical scales are the most accurate, but they are large and heavy and used for shipping scales.

Analog scales

Analog scales are generally considered the best option for home cooks. They are relatively cheap and offer a wide range of features. Some models allow you to set weights and measure ingredients directly into the bowl. 

Other models let you add ingredients while keeping the scale running. They rarely have weight limits.

Mechanical scales

Mechanical scales are usually used in professional kitchens. They are extremely accurate and feature a variety of options. For instance, some models can automatically calculate recipes based on measurements taken from other parts of the scale. They also have a pull-out display.

 Types of Kitchen Scales

What Kind Of Digital Kitchen Scales Do I Need?

There are two types of digital kitchen scales available. One has a platform that slides under the item you wish to weigh. This type of scale is called a sliding scale.

The second type of scale does not slide underneath the item you wish to weigh. Instead, it sits directly on top of the item. This type of scale works much like a regular kitchen scale.

Depending on your needs you may choose any of them.

Benefits of Using a Kitchen Scale to Weigh Package Contents

There are several benefits to weighing packages with kitchen scales instead of relying on weight-label printers. First, you can save money by avoiding overpaying for shipping products costs. 

Second, you can avoid wasting food by knowing exactly how much each package weighs. They provide more or less precise measurements.

Third, you can prevent losing items during shipment. Fourth, you can weigh packages yourself rather than having someone else do it. 

Finally, you can track shipments online and receive notifications when packages arrive.

Accuracy 

Most kitchen scales are accurate within 1/10th of a pound. This means that you won’t have to guess how much food you’re buying.

Portability

If you don’t have access to a bathroom scale, you can still measure your weight using a kitchen scale.

Convenience

You don’t have to go to the store every time you want to weigh your groceries.

Drawbacks of Using a Kitchen Scale

• Cost – Some kitchen scales cost hundreds of dollars. However, most models are affordable.

• Size – Many kitchen scales are too big to fit under your cabinet. They hold the maximum capacity of your cabinet.

• Space – If you live in an apartment, you may not have room for a kitchen scale.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Kitchen Scale

So, which one is right for you? Well, it depends on your situation. If you have limited space, you should probably opt for a smaller scale. On the other hand, if you have plenty of storage space, you can purchase a larger scale.

Regardless of which scale you decide to purchase, remember that accuracy is key. Make sure you calibrate your scale regularly to ensure its accuracy. Accurate scale can help you get proper weight of the items. Lightweight scale provides better result and it’s favorite scale among the users.

Considerations Before Buying A Kitchen Scale

In addition to choosing a scale, you must consider whether you want to buy a stand-alone model or a countertop model. Stand-alone models are easier to store and transport. Countertop models are typically larger and heavier, making them less portable.

Regardless of which type of scale you choose, you should always read reviews before purchasing. Reviews can give you insight into how well a particular model works and how long it lasts. Whatsoever, for a kitchen scale – accurate weight or correct weight measuring should be the prime concern.

Postal Scale vs Kitchen Scale – Which One Should I Choose?

There is a significant difference between a kitchen scale and a postal scale. Both of these measures are fundamentally different and serve distinct functions. Different models may have similar appearances, yet they all function differently.

Postal Scale vs Kitchen Scale

If you run an eCommerce delivery service, using a kitchen scale for business reasons is a terrible idea that can lead to overpaying the postage or having the delivery returned to you after a week for underpaying the postage.

ParametersKitchen ScalePostal Scale
Measuring PrincipleSpring Type Or Balance TypeBalance Type
Level Of AccuracyLess AccurateHigh Accuracy
ReliabilityLess ReliableHighly Reliable
Unit Of MeasurementNot So PreciseVery Precise
Weighing CapacityUp To Several Mili PointsUp To Several Decimal Points
ConnectivityNo UsbUsb
Smart FeaturesNot AvailableAvailable
Label PrintersNot AccessibleAccessible

After reading our comparison of postal scales vs kitchen scales, we are certain that you have a firm grasp on the many advantages that postal scales offer for your business.

Is There Anything Else That I Should Know About Using A Digital Kitchen Scale?

Using a digital kitchen scale is simple. Press the tare button. Simply place the postal packages or item you wish to measure on top of the scale. Then press the button to read the weight.

However, it will not give accurate results because most scales are inaccurate by 10% or more. If you want to know what your actual weight is, you should use a postal scale. But if you’re in need of an approximate weight, this would do.

That’s it! Now you can easily calculate the cost of your shipment.

Top 5 Favorite Kitchen Scale

  1. Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Digital Kitchen Scale
  2. Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale 0.1g EK5250
  3. Ozeri Pronto Digital Kitchen Scale
  4. OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-Out Display
  5. KitchenAid KQ908 Glass Surface 11 Pound Capacity Digital Kitchen and Food Scale

For more information you may watch this video –

FAQ on Can You Use A Kitchen Scale To Weigh Packages

  1. Can I Use A Kitchen Scale For Shipping?

Yes you can, but we suggest not to. For shipping purposes, the level of accuracy and precise units of measurement is very important. For that reason, you should opt for a postal scale for better performance.

  1. How To Weigh Mail Using A Kitchen Scale?

A kitchen scale is a very useful tool for weighing food products. However, it is not designed to measure weights of items larger than 1 kilogram (about 2 pounds). You may find yourself wondering how to weigh a package when you send it by mail. 

There are several options available to you. First, you could ask someone else to help you weigh the package. If you know someone who works at the post office, you might be able to enlist his or her assistance.

Alternatively, you could purchase a digital postal scale from Amazon or another retailer. These digital postal scale scales are usually inexpensive and come with instructions. They provide better results than regular scales and level of accuracy is high for larger items.

Finally, you could buy a standalone scale that measures both precise weight and volume (bonus features). They provide simple designs and different units of measure. Some models include a built-in backlit display screen so you can see the results immediately. 

  1. Which Type Of Digital Kitchen Scales Should I Buy?

It depends on your preference. If you want something that is easier to use, go for a sliding scale. But if you want something that has a higher level of accuracy, go for a non-sliding scale.

  1. How Much Does A Digital Kitchen Scale Cost?

A digital kitchen scale costs between $20-$50. Prices vary depending on the model.

  1. Where Can I Get One Of Digital Kitchen Scales?

Most stores that sell kitchen appliances offer digital kitchen scales. You can find these items online too.

  1. Do I Need Any Other Accessories For My Digital Kitchen Scale?

No, you don’t need any accessories for your digital kitchen scale.

Final Words

A kitchen scale would be useful for determining the exact amount and so much more. Assuming you have a kitchen scale and are wondering if you can use it to weigh boxes or other comparable items, the answer is yes. Hopefully, our guide has answered – can you use a kitchen scale to weigh packages or not.