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Looking to Purchase a Used or Pre-Owned Scale? Here’s What You Need to Know

Looking to Purchase a Used or Pre-Owned Scale? Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted by Greg J on Mar 30th 2021

We get it. Even at our ridiculously discounted prices, purchasing a brand-new scale or balance—at least a high-quality one anyway—can really pack a wallop to the wallet. So, if you can find a used or pre-owned version of the scale you need, why not take advantage of the additional savings?

Now, we know there are plenty of people out there who refuse to purchase anything used, and we get that too. Perhaps as a kid they purchased a puzzle at a yard sale, only to find out hours later that a single piece was missing. Or maybe they trusted a used car salesman and wound up with a total lemon.

As we said, we get it.

Luckily for you, we’re the furthest thing from a yard sale or a sleazy used car lot. We do things quite a bit differently here at Scales Plus. Here’s how.

How do I know my used scale will work?

This is a question we get asked all the time. Every single one of our returned scales—whether the box was even opened or not—gets thoroughly checked for the following:

  • All of the original parts and packaging are included (no missing puzzle pieces here)
  • The scale is calibrated and in good working condition
  • There are no major flaws or defects (note that there may be some minor cosmetic imperfections—more about this in a bit)
  • The scale is clean (if it isn’t, we’ll clean and sanitize it for you)

Since our team are all scale experts, you can rest assured knowing we would never sell anything that doesn’t meet our strict standards.

Will I know if the scale I’m purchasing has scratches or dents?

In short, yes. While these minor cosmetic imperfections were deemed by our team as not affecting the overall functionality, we do realize that this can be a deciding factor in not wanting to purchase a particular used scale.

That is why we clearly label the current condition in the scale’s description.

The difference between a used scale (above) and a pre-owned scale (below).


If the scale is untouched and good as new, we note that too!

Why were these scales returned in the first place?

There are many reasons why a scale or balance may be returned. Most of the time though, they’re returned to us because the customer purchased the wrong capacity or readability. Sometimes, it’s because they ordered a greater quantity than they ended up needing.

Very rarely are scales and balances returned to us because of performance issues. When that does happen though, our certified scale technicians go to work to diagnose, fix, and test the issue before putting it back into circulation.

I have a scale I want to return—what is Scales Plus’s return/refund policy?

If for whatever reason you are unsatisfied with your recent purchase, we’re here to help. A new product may be exchanged for another or returned for a refund, provided your purchase meets the requirements below.

To be eligible for a return, please make sure that:

  • The product was purchased in the last 30 days
  • You still have the original packaging
  • The product isn’t used or damaged beyond the resale ability
  • You have the receipt or proof of purchase
  • You obtained a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) from us
  • The product was not shipped internationally

Products that do not meet these criteria will not be considered for return. To learn more, please read our full Returns and Refunds Policy.

How much money will I save buying a used scale or balance?

Depending on the condition, brand, and type of scale or balance, you can expect to save an additional 10-40% off our already low price when you purchase a used Scales Plus product.

Got more questions? We’ve got answers!

Unlike a yard sale or a pop-up used car lot, we’ll be here a week from now, a month from now, even years from now to offer full-service support for your scale. If you have any questions about our used scales, you can reach us on the live chat, by phone at 616-622-2100, or by sending an email to sales@scalesoutlet.com. We are always happy to help!

Are you ready to pull the trigger and make a purchase? Check out our current selection of used and pre-owned scales and balances.

Why Scales Plus?

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