Crane scales take weighing off the floor—literally. When your load is too large, too awkward, too hot, or simply too heavy for a platform scale, a crane scale gives you the ability to weigh while lifting. From foundries and metal shops to warehouses, shipping terminals, and industrial production lines, crane scales make it possible to capture accurate measurements while keeping operators safely out of the way.
This guide covers what to look for when choosing a crane scale, including capacity, resolution, safety features, environmental protection, and the differences between light-duty, general industrial, and heavy-duty crane scale designs.
Choose capacity first: Hogentogler’s crane scales range from 100 lb up to 10,000 lb depending on model.
Match readability to load: Readabilities include 0.02 lb, 0.1 lb, 0.5 lb, and 1 lb, depending on capacity.
Safety is essential: Look for overload protection, secure latching hooks, and robust housings designed for suspended loads.
Industrial durability: Rugged cast aluminum or steel bodies withstand vibration, impact, and demanding environments.
Remote operation: Many crane scales include wireless remotes, hanging indicators, or large displays for safe distance reading.
Crane scales are suspended weighing devices designed to measure the weight of loads lifted by a hoist, crane, or other overhead system. Because the load hangs freely, crane scales allow operators to weigh bulky or oversized items without placing them on a platform—ideal for industries where space, handling, and load geometry make traditional floor scales impractical.
Hogentogler’s Crane Scales lineup includes compact 100–1,000 lb models for light industrial use, rugged mid-capacity units up to 5,000 lb, and heavy-duty crane scales rated to 10,000 lb, all designed for safety and reliability in demanding environments.
Accuracy and safety start with choosing the correct capacity. Based on the products on the page:
100 lb capacity models with 0.02 lb readability
300 lb and 500 lb models with 0.1 lb readability
1,000 lb–2,000 lb models with 0.5 lb readability
3,000 lb–10,000 lb heavy-duty models with 1 lb readability
These increments align with industrial needs: smaller capacities offer finer control for lighter loads; higher capacities emphasize ruggedness and safety for lifting heavy objects.
Never select a crane scale close to your maximum load. A safety margin of 25–50% above your heaviest expected lift is recommended. This protects both equipment and operators and extends the life of the load cell.
Crane scales experience dynamic forces that platform scales never see. Hogentogler’s models are built for this with:
Heavy-duty steel or cast aluminum housings
Shock-resistant internal load cells
Large alloy-steel hooks with secure latches
Swivel hooks or shackles for safe load alignment
Bright LED or LCD displays for visibility at a distance
Many units are designed to handle vibration, sudden loading, and harsh industrial conditions such as heat, dust, and weather exposure.
Because crane scales lift suspended loads, safety is non-negotiable. Look for:
Overload protection — internal safeguards that prevent damage if weight exceeds rating
Secure locking hooks — prevent accidental unhooking
Strong shackles and bearing assemblies — maintain alignment under load
Remote control operation — allows weighing from a safe distance
Low-battery and overload alarms — reduce operator error
For sensitive or hazardous environments, some crane scales also include impact-resistant enclosures and enhanced electronic shielding.
Industrial facilities expose equipment to moisture, dust, and temperature extremes. Many crane scales on the page feature:
Rugged weather-resistant housings
Sealed electronics to protect against dust and humidity
High-contrast displays designed for indoor or outdoor use
Some models can operate in warehouse freezers, metalworking shops, or partially outdoor loading docks.
Crane scales often include functional conveniences that speed up tasks and improve operator experience:
Wireless remote controls for taring, zeroing, and capturing readings
Rechargeable batteries for mobile or remote work areas
Hold and peak hold functions for unstable loads
Auto-off to conserve battery life
Unit switching between lb, kg, or N units
Certain models also support continuous lifting applications, allowing operators to weigh items as they’re hoisted onto trucks, pallets, or production lines.
Crane scales excel where overhead handling is already part of the workflow. Common use cases include:
Metal fabrication and foundries — lifting castings, molten metal buckets, and fabricated components
Warehousing and shipping — weighing bulky items that won’t fit on platforms
Manufacturing — measuring large assemblies or heavy components
Agriculture and forestry — weighing feed totes, logs, or bulk bags
Recycling and scrap — handling metal bundles, bins, or irregular materials
Marine and port operations — weighing nets, cargo, and containers
If the load can be lifted, a crane scale can weigh it safely and efficiently.
Caring for a crane scale ensures accuracy and operator safety.
Inspect hooks, shackles, and housings regularly for signs of wear
Keep load-bearing hardware lubricated and aligned
Calibrate periodically with certified test weights
Charge batteries fully before shifts
Protect remotes and indicator ports from moisture
Avoid shock-loading (sudden drops or jerks), which can damage the load cell
Capacity range: 100 lb to 10,000 lb
Readability options: 0.02 lb, 0.1 lb, 0.5 lb, 1 lb, 5lb
Housing: cast aluminum or steel
Hook type: locking, swivel, or shackle
Display: bright LED / LCD
Features: remote control, hold/peak, unit switching
Power: rechargeable battery
Durability: weather-resistant, shock-resistant
Safety margin: choose 25–50% above max load
Connectivity: some models offer data output
Are crane scales safe for overhead lifting?
Yes—when used within capacity limits and with proper rigging. Hogentogler’s crane scales feature secure hooks, overload warnings, and rugged construction for industrial use.
Can crane scales be used outdoors?
Many can. Look for weather-resistant housings and bright displays designed for outdoor visibility.
Do crane scales require calibration?
Yes. Periodic calibration ensures accurate readings, especially in facilities with high vibration or temperature swings.
What capacity crane scale do I need?
Choose a scale rated 25–50% above your heaviest expected load to ensure safety and durability.
Can crane scales connect to computers or printers?
Some advanced models include wired or wireless data output, but many are standalone for safety and simplicity.
Crane Scales — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/crane-scales.asp
Dynamometers — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/dynamometers.asp
Floor Scales — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/floor-scales.asp