If you deal with businesses in retail, trade, or industries, you surely require a weight and measurement certificate under the Legal Metrology Act. All the weight and measurement equipment manufacturers, importers or dealers must obtain this license first before dealing in this industry. It indicates that you are approved as per the legal metrology standards & ensure consumer safety concerns. So, Before obtaining this license, let’s understand this license in depth.
What Is a Weight & Measurement Certificate?
A weight & measurement certificate is a formal document that validates the accuracy and reliability of measuring objects. These licenses are released after a detailed calibration procedure by the approved bodies to confirm that the weights, measures, and objects are across legal and regularized limits. It is necessary in terms of retaining fairness and transparency in commercial trade, where the right measurement is needed.
Why is the Weighing & Measurement Certificate Important?
As per the LMPC or Legal Metrology Act weighing & measurement certificate is essential for several reasons, we have mentioned all the reasons in the table given below:-
- Legal Compliance – This license confirms that the weight and measures utilized by businesses comply with national and international rules and laws.
- LM Consumer Protection – It saves consumers by confirming that the quantity of items they get matches the evaluation indicated, avoiding frauds in trade.
- Trade Fairness – A weight and measurement license guarantees all business transactions are honest by authorizing the accuracy of the measurement items utilized.
- Industry Standards – The license ensures that devices are calibrated correctly, which is important for businesses like healthcare, manufacturing and logistics, where detailed measurements are essential.
Types of Instruments that Require a Weight & Measurement Certificate
If you are producing any of the mentioned instruments then you must apply for the weight & measurement license:
- Weighing Scales – Mechanical, Digital and Spring Balance used in retail and industrial implementation.
- Measuring Tapes and Rulers – Construction, Manufacturing, and Textile companies.
- Liquid Measurement Instrument -Instruments measuring volume, such as liquid dispensers and flow meters.
- Gas & Electric Meters – Objects utilized for measuring in commercial and residential settings.
How to Obtain a Weight & Measurement Certificate?
Apply for weight and measurement certificate in India as per the given steps:
Calibration
In the beginning, you need to calibrate the device, such as weighing scales, meters, etc., as per national or international regulations. Calibration mainly ensures that the devices provide the right and detailed readings. You will get the device tested through the authorized body.
Verification
Subsequently, the device will go for the verification procedure. This stage includes checking the instrument’s accuracy while comparing it with the standard. Verification confirms that the instrument is working under the permissible limits.
Issuance of Certificate
In the end after calibration, and verification are completely done, and assured, the regularized body or agency then permits the weight and measurement certificate in India.
Through these specific steps, businesses can confirm that their measuring devices are correct and comply with legal needs.
What is the Validity Period of any Weight or Measure License?
Here is the table consisting weighing items with the validity time:-
| S.No | Name of the Weighing Items | Period of Validity |
| 1. | Counter Machine | 2 Years |
| 2. | Peg Measures | 1 Years |
| 3. | Steel Meters | 1 Years |
| 4. | Beam Scale | 2 Years |
| 5. | Bullion Weights | 2 Years |
| 6. | Iron Weights | 2 Years |
How Long is a Weight & Measurement Certificate Valid?
Normally, the weight and measurement certificate is valid for one year, however it depends on the types of instrument and regulations of your location.
What Happens if the Measuring Instrument Fails Calibration?
This is the most common question we usually hear, so if the measuring instrument fails the calibration procedure then you can’t use the object in a commercial place. Besides, you can face legal challenges on the lookout for non-compliance with trade regulations.
Who Issues the Weight and Measurement Certificate?
The weight & measurement certificate in India is permitted by the government authorized organizations for example the legal metrology department.
Can You Use an Imported Measuring Instrument Without a Certificate?
No, imported measuring devices without the certificate, as it required to be calibrated to make
What are the Weight & Measurement Certificate Laws?
- The Legal Metrology Act, 2009
- The legal metrology (packaged commodities) rules, 2011
- The Legal Metrology (general) Rules, 2011
- The legal metrology (approval of models) rules, 2011
- The legal metrology (national standard) rules, 2011
- The legal metrology (numeration) rules, 2011
- The Indian Institute of Legal Metrology Rules, 2011
Conclusion
A weight & measurement certificate in India plays an important role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of measuring devices most commonly used in trade, commerce, and industries. It assists companies in sustaining compliance with national laws, boosts right trading practices, and protects customers from wrong measurements. Frequent calibration and certification of measuring devices are required to support the integrity of your business and prevent legal or financial outcomes.
Can I Use a Measuring Instrument Without a Valid Certificate?
No, you can not utilize a measuring instrument without a valid certificate.
How Frequently Do You Need to Renew Weight & Measurement Certificates?
You have to renew your weight and measurement certificate periodically.
Which Weighbridges/Truck Scales Require a Calibration Certificate from the Government for Compliance?
Here is the list of objects that come under Provisions Act for verification and calibration are:-
Pit-Type Weighbridge
Pit-Less weighbridge
Rail Weighbridge
Portable Weighbridge
RCC Weighbridge
Electronic & Mechanical Weighbridge
