# Livestock Scales and Weighing Systems: Installation and Use ## Key Takeaways - **Platform Capacity and Foundation Integrity:** Select a scale platform rated for the heaviest animal plus a minimum 20% safety margin. Ensure installation on a level, solid, and well-drained base to prevent moisture damage to load cells and maintain consistent readings. - **Calibration and Consistent Weighing Practices:** Calibrate scales upon installation and recheck monthly with certified test weights. Standardize weighing times (same time of day) and handling conditions to ensure comparable and accurate growth rate and efficiency data. - **Critical Management Applications:** Accurate weights are fundamental for precise sale price determination, correct medication dosing (preventing treatment failure and residues), effective growth monitoring (calculating average daily gain), informed breeding decisions (meeting target weights), and efficient feed conversion analysis. - **System Components and Configuration:** Livestock scales comprise a platform, load cells (sensors), and an indicator (display). Configurations vary from integrated chute scales and alleyway platforms to portable units and weigh bars, with specific designs optimized for cattle versus sheep operations. - **Data Management and Health Monitoring:** Digital recordkeeping reduces transcription errors and facilitates trend analysis; record animal ID, date, weight, and relevant health treatments. Sudden, unexplained weight loss across multiple animals necessitates prompt veterinary consultation due to potential underlying health issues. --- Accurate weights drive nearly every major decision on a livestock operation. You use them to set sale prices, calculate medication doses, track growth rates, determine feed efficiency, and make culling choices. A scale that is off by even a few pounds can cost you thousands of dollars over a year through underpriced sales or overmedicated animals. This guide covers the full process of selecting, installing, calibrating, and using livestock scales for cattle and sheep operations. It is written for farm owners, herd managers, and farm employees who want to install a new weighing system or improve the accuracy of an existing one. ## At a Glance - Choose a scale platform rated for the heaviest animal you will weigh, plus a safety margin of at least 20 percent. - Put the scale on a level, solid base with good drainage to protect load cells from moisture damage. - Calibrate your scale at installation and then recheck it monthly with certified test weights. - Weigh animals at the same time of day and under the same handling conditions for consistent comparisons. - Record weights digitally whenever possible to reduce transcription errors and make trend analysis easier. - For cattle, weigh at weaning, at 12 months, and before sale. For sheep, weigh at weaning, before breeding, and before sale. - If you see sudden, unexplained weight loss across multiple animals, contact your veterinarian promptly. ## Why Accurate Weights Matter Your scale is not just a piece of equipment. It is a management tool that affects your bottom line in several direct ways. **Sale price accuracy.** When you sell livestock by the pound, every pound counts. A 1,400 pound steer sold at $1.60 per pound brings $2,240. If your scale reads 20 pounds light, you lose $32 on that single animal. Multiply that across a hundred head and the loss becomes significant. **Medication dosing.** Many livestock medications and vaccines are dosed by body weight. Underdosing can lead to treatment failure and potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance. Overdosing can cause toxicity, injection site reactions, and illegal drug residues in meat or milk. An accurate scale is a [food safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) tool. **Growth monitoring.** You cannot manage what you do not measure. Regular weights let you calculate average daily gain, compare performance across groups, and identify animals that are falling behind. This data helps you make better decisions about feeding, genetics, and culling. **Breeding decisions.** Replacement heifers and ewes need to reach target breeding weights to have a good chance of conceiving and raising a healthy offspring. Weighing tells you when animals are ready, rather than guessing by age or visual appraisal. **Feed efficiency.** If you track feed intake against weight gain, you can identify which animals convert feed most efficiently. This information supports genetic selection and helps you adjust rations to avoid waste. **Health detection.** Weight loss is often one of the first signs of illness, parasites, or dental problems. Regular weighing can catch problems before they become visible to the eye. ## Understanding [Livestock Scale](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/livestock-scale-selection-installation) Systems A livestock scale system has three main parts: the platform, the load cells, and the indicator. **The platform** is the surface the animal stands on. It needs to be large enough for your largest animals to stand comfortably without stepping off. Platform widths range from 30 to 48 inches for sheep and calves, and up to 60 inches or more for mature cattle. Lengths range from 6 to 12 feet depending on the species and size of animals you handle. **Load cells** are the sensors that measure weight. Most modern livestock scales use electronic load cells that convert the force of the animal's weight into an electrical signal. The number and capacity of load cells determine the maximum weight the scale can measure. A typical cattle scale has four load cells rated at 2,000 to 5,000 pounds each. Sheep scales may have two or four load cells rated at 1,000 to 2,000 pounds each. **The indicator** is the display unit that converts the electrical signal into a readable weight. Indicators range from simple digital readouts to advanced units that store weights, calculate average daily gain, and connect to farm management software. Some scale systems are built into handling equipment. You can buy a dedicated scale platform that fits inside an existing chute or alley, or you can purchase a complete weighing system with its own integrated cage or crate. For sheep operations, a weighing crate with a built-in scale is common. For cattle, a scale platform installed in the floor of a squeeze chute or a separate weigh box in the alleyway works well. ## Choosing the Right Scale for Your Operation Before you buy anything, take time to assess your needs. The right scale for a 50 cow cow-calf operation is different from the right scale for a 5,000 head feedlot. **Consider your animal types and sizes.** What is the heaviest animal you will weigh? A mature beef bull can weigh 2,500 pounds or more. A mature ewe might weigh 250 pounds. Your scale capacity needs to handle your heaviest animal with room to spare. A good rule is to choose a scale rated for at least 20 percent more than your heaviest animal's expected weight. **Consider your throughput needs.** How many animals will you weigh in a single session? If you process 200 calves at weaning, you need a system that allows rapid weighing without bottlenecks. A scale integrated into your existing handling system will move animals faster than a standalone platform that requires you to move animals in and out manually. **Consider your available space.** Measure the area where you plan to install the scale. You need enough room for the platform itself, the animals approaching and leaving, and a person to read the indicator and record weights. Indoor installations need ceiling clearance for the animals and for any equipment you use to lift or position the scale. **Consider your power source.** Most electronic indicators run on batteries or AC power. If your scale is in a remote pasture or a barn without electricity, battery operation may be essential. Some indicators use rechargeable batteries that can run for weeks between charges. **Consider your recordkeeping needs.** If you want to track individual animal weights over time, choose an indicator that can store weights electronically or connect to a computer or mobile device. Some systems use radio frequency identification (RFID) tag readers to automatically match each weight to the correct animal. **Consider your budget.** Scale prices vary widely. A basic sheep weighing crate might cost a few hundred dollars. A complete cattle weighing system with a chute, load bars, and a data-capable indicator can cost several thousand dollars. Remember that a scale is a long-term investment. The cheapest option may not be the most cost-effective if it is inaccurate, unreliable, or slow. ## Scale Installation Step by Step Proper installation is critical for accurate weights. A scale that is installed on an uneven surface or in a poorly drained area will give inconsistent readings no matter how good the equipment is. ### Step 1: Choose the Location Select a site that is level, well drained, and protected from extreme weather. The scale platform must sit perfectly level. If it is not level, the load cells will not measure the animal's full weight correctly. Avoid locations where water can pool under or around the platform. Water can damage load cells and wiring, cause corrosion, and lead to inaccurate readings. If you are installing the scale outdoors, consider building a small roof or shelter over the weighing area. The location should also be convenient to your existing handling facilities. A scale that is difficult to access will not get used regularly. For cattle, the scale should be positioned so animals can flow through it naturally as part of the chute or alley system. For sheep, the scale should be near the handling pens so you can move animals efficiently. ### Step 2: Prepare the Foundation The foundation must be solid and stable. A scale that sits on soft or shifting ground will produce inconsistent readings. For permanent installations, pour a concrete pad that extends at least 6 inches beyond the scale platform on all sides. The pad should be at least 4 to 6 inches thick and reinforced with rebar or wire mesh. For temporary or portable installations, you may be able to use compacted gravel or crushed rock as a base. The key is that the surface must be level and must not shift or settle over time. Check the level periodically and add or remove material as needed. Make sure the foundation extends far enough to accommodate the animals approaching the scale. Animals should step onto the scale from a level surface, not from a step up or down. A difference of even an inch can cause animals to hesitate, which slows the weighing process and can affect the accuracy of the reading. ### Step 3: Position the Platform Place the scale platform on the foundation according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most platforms have adjustable feet or legs that allow you to level the platform precisely. Use a carpenter's level to check the platform in both directions. Adjust the feet until the platform is level front to back and side to side. The top of the platform should be at the same height as the surrounding floor or alley surface. If there is a gap between the platform and the surrounding surface, animals may catch their feet. Fill any gaps with a rubber mat or a metal transition plate. ### Step 4: Install the Load Cells Load cells are precision instruments. Handle them carefully and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions exactly. Most load cells are bolted to the underside of the platform and to the foundation. Make sure all bolts are tightened to the specified torque. Check that the load cells are not touching any part of the surrounding structure. A load cell that is in contact with a wall, a post, or the edge of the platform will not measure weight correctly. There should be a small gap all around the platform so it can move freely as weight is applied. ### Step 5: Connect the Wiring Connect the load cells to the junction box and then to the indicator, following the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer. Use waterproof connectors and protect all wiring from moisture, rodents, and physical damage. Consider running the wiring through conduit if it is exposed. Make sure the wiring is not pinched or stretched. Loose or damaged wiring is a common cause of scale malfunctions. After connecting everything, test the system before you mount the indicator in its final position. ### Step 6: Mount the Indicator Mount the indicator where it is easy to read but protected from animals, weather, and accidental damage. Many producers mount the indicator on a wall or post near the scale, at eye level for the person operating the system. Others use a portable indicator that they hold or hang on a hook during weighing sessions. Make sure the indicator is protected from dust and moisture. Some indicators are rated for outdoor use, but even those benefit from being kept under cover when not in use. ### Step 7: Calibrate the Scale Calibration is the process of verifying that the scale reads accurately. Most digital indicators have a calibration mode that allows you to set the zero point and the span. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific indicator. To calibrate, first zero the scale with nothing on the platform. Then place known test weights on the platform and adjust the indicator until it reads the correct weight. Test weights should be certified and should cover the range of weights you expect to measure. Many farm supply stores sell certified test weights, or you can check with your local weights and measures office. Calibrate the scale immediately after installation and again after any significant change in temperature, after the scale is moved, or after any repair. Recalibrate at least once a month during regular use. ### Step 8: Test With Live Animals After calibration, test the scale with a few animals before you start a full weighing session. Observe how the animals behave on the scale. Do they stand still? Do they shift their weight? Do they seem nervous? The best scales are those that animals move through calmly and quickly. If animals are reluctant to step onto the scale, check the approach. The entrance should be well lit, free of shadows, and the same height as the scale. Some producers paint the scale platform a light color to make it less intimidating. Others use a solid side on the scale to create a sense of security. ## Weighing System Configurations for Cattle Cattle scales come in several configurations, each suited to different types of operations. **Squeeze chute scales.** Many squeeze chutes have built-in scale platforms or can be fitted with load bars. This configuration works well for operations that already process cattle through a chute for vaccination, pregnancy checking, or other procedures. The animal is weighed while confined in the chute, which keeps it still and gives a stable reading. The downside is that weighing slows down the processing line, since each animal must be held still long enough for the weight to register. **Alleyway scales.** A scale platform set into the floor of an alleyway lets you weigh cattle as they walk through. This works well for feedlots and other operations that move cattle frequently. Animals do not need to be stopped, though you may need to hold them briefly to get an accurate reading. Some alleyway scales are equipped with a gate or restraint that briefly holds the animal in place. **Portable scales.** Portable scales are built into a frame or trailer that can be moved from pasture to pasture. These are useful for cow-calf operations that handle cattle in different locations throughout the year. Portable scales may be less stable than permanent installations, so check the level and calibration each time you move them. **Weigh bars.** Weigh bars are individual load cells that can be installed under an existing platform or structure. You can mount weigh bars under a squeeze chute, a custom-built weigh box, or even a livestock trailer. This option is flexible and often less expensive than buying a complete scale system. ## Weighing System Configurations for Sheep Sheep operations typically use smaller, more specialized weighing equipment. **Weighing crates.** A weighing crate is a narrow enclosure that holds one sheep at a time while it stands on the scale. The crate has a gate at each end so sheep can be loaded and unloaded quickly. Most crates have a built-in scale or are designed to sit on a scale platform. Weighing crates are efficient for processing large numbers of sheep because they keep the animal confined and still. **Platform scales.** A flat platform scale can be used for sheep if it is positioned in an alleyway or at the end of a handling chute. Sheep can be weighed individually as they step onto the platform. This works well for small flocks but is slower than using a crate. **Suspension scales.** Some sheep scales use a suspension system where the animal is held in a sling or a specially designed harness connected to a hanging scale. This configuration is less common but can be useful for weighing lambs or for operations with limited floor space. ## Handling Systems That Support Accurate Weighing The scale itself is only one part of the weighing system. The way animals move into, stand on, and leave the scale has a major effect on accuracy and efficiency. **Crowd pens and alleys.** A well designed crowd pen and alley system moves animals toward the scale with minimal stress and handling. The crowd pen should be circular or curved, with solid sides to prevent animals from seeing distractions. The alley should be wide enough for animals to walk through comfortably but narrow enough to prevent them from turning around. **Animal flow.** Animals should move through the scale in a continuous flow, with the next animal waiting just behind the one being weighed. This reduces stress and keeps the process moving. Avoid making animals wait in the scale for long periods, as they may become agitated and shift their weight. **Restraint.** For cattle, a head gate or a squeeze mechanism can hold the animal still while you read the weight. For sheep, the weighing crate itself provides restraint. An animal that is moving or shifting its weight will not give a stable reading, so some form of restraint is usually necessary. **Non slip surfaces.** The scale platform should have a non slip surface to keep animals from slipping or becoming frightened. Many platforms come with a textured or grooved surface. If your platform is smooth, consider adding a rubber mat or a non slip coating. ## Step by Step Weighing Procedure A consistent weighing procedure reduces errors and makes your weight data more reliable. Develop a standard routine and follow it every time. ### Before You Start Check that the scale is level and clean. Remove any mud, manure, or debris from the platform. Check the indicator for a low battery or error message. Test the scale with a known weight if you have test weights available. Set up your recordkeeping system before you bring animals to the scale. Have your record sheets, tablet, or computer ready. If you are using RFID tags, make sure the tag reader is working and the tags are readable. ### Moving Animals to the Scale Move animals calmly and quietly. Do not use electric prods unless absolutely necessary. Stressed animals are more likely to move erratically on the scale, which can produce inaccurate readings. Move animals in small groups. For cattle, groups of 5 to 10 work well. For sheep, groups of 10 to 20 are manageable. Larger groups are harder to control and can cause animals to crowd and push at the scale entrance. ### Weighing Each Animal Allow the animal to step onto the scale and stand still. For cattle in a squeeze chute, close the head gate and give the animal a moment to settle. For sheep in a weighing crate, close the rear gate so the animal cannot back out. Read the weight when the indicator shows a stable reading. Most digital indicators have a motion detection feature that tells you when the animal is still enough for an accurate reading. Wait for this indicator before recording the weight. Record the weight immediately. Do not rely on memory. If you are writing weights by hand, write them clearly and use the same format every time. If you are using an electronic system, confirm that the weight has been saved before releasing the animal. Release the animal and allow it to exit the scale before the next animal enters. This prevents animals from crowding onto the scale together and gives you a clean reading for each individual. ### After Weighing Return animals to their pens or pastures promptly. Clean the scale platform after each session to remove manure and debris. Check the scale for any signs of damage or wear. Back up your weight records if you are using an electronic system. Download the data to your computer or cloud storage and verify that it is complete. ## Calibration and Maintenance Regular calibration and maintenance keep your scale accurate and extend its working life. ### Calibration Frequency Calibrate your scale: - Immediately after installation - After moving the scale to a new location - After any repair or adjustment - After a significant temperature change, such as the first freeze in fall or the first hot spell in summer - At least once a month during regular use If you use your scale heavily, consider calibrating more frequently. Some feedlots calibrate weekly. ### How to Calibrate Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific indicator. The general process is: 1. Zero the scale with nothing on the platform. 2. Place certified test weights on the platform. Use weights that cover the range you expect to measure. For cattle scales, test with at least 500 pounds. For sheep scales, test with at least 100 pounds. 3. Adjust the indicator until it reads the correct weight. 4. Remove the test weights and verify that the scale returns to zero. 5. Repeat the process to confirm the calibration is stable. If the scale will not calibrate or if readings are inconsistent, there may be a mechanical problem. Check that the platform is not touching any surrounding structure, that all bolts are tight, and that the load cells are not damaged. ### Routine Maintenance - Keep the scale clean. Manure, mud, and debris can interfere with the platform movement and cause inaccurate readings. - Check the wiring regularly for damage. Rodents can chew through wires, and moisture can corrode connections. - Lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Do not oil the load cells themselves. - Inspect the platform surface for wear. Replace worn non slip surfaces to prevent animal injuries. - Check the level of the platform monthly. Foundations can settle, especially in wet weather. - Protect the indicator from extreme temperatures and moisture when not in use. ### Troubleshooting Common Problems **Scale will not zero.** Check that nothing is touching the platform. Look for debris caught under the platform or between the platform and the surrounding structure. **Readings are inconsistent.** Check that the platform is level and that all load cells are working. A damaged load cell can cause erratic readings. **Scale drifts or changes weight over time.** This can be caused by temperature changes, moisture, or a failing load cell. Check the calibration and inspect the load cells for damage. **Indicator shows an error message.** Consult the manufacturer's manual. Common errors include low battery, overload, and calibration errors. ## Recordkeeping and [Data Management](/blog/guides/data-management-basics-principles-processes-and-best-practices) Accurate weights are only useful if you record them properly and use them to make decisions. A good recordkeeping system helps you track individual animals, compare performance over time, and identify problems early. ### What to Record At minimum, record: - Animal identification number or tag - Date of weighing - Weight - Body condition score, if relevant - Any health treatments given at the time of weighing - Notes about any unusual observations For breeding animals, also record age, stage of production, and any reproductive status information. For growing animals, record the previous weight so you can calculate average daily gain. ### Paper Records Many small operations still use paper records. If you use paper, use a form that is designed for your operation. A simple notebook with columns for date, animal ID, and weight works well. Keep records in a waterproof binder or folder and store them in a dry location. The main risk with paper records is transcription errors. Develop a system that minimizes mistakes. Read the weight out loud as you record it. Have one person read the weight and another person write it down if you are processing animals quickly. ### Electronic Records Electronic recordkeeping is faster and more accurate than paper. Many scale indicators can store weights and transfer them to a computer or mobile device. Some systems integrate with farm management software that tracks animal histories, calculates average daily gain, and generates reports. If you use electronic records, make sure you back up your data regularly. Download weights after each weighing session and store them in at least two locations, such as your computer and a cloud service. ### Using Weight Data Weight data is most valuable when you analyze it and use it to make decisions. Review your records regularly and look for trends. **Calculate average daily gain.** For growing animals, divide the weight gain by the number of days between weighings. Compare average daily gain across groups, across seasons, and across years. If gains are lower than expected, investigate the causes. **Compare animals within a group.** Identify animals that are significantly lighter or heavier than their groupmates. Light animals may need extra feed or health care. Heavy animals may be ready for market sooner than expected. **Monitor the herd or flock average.** A sudden drop in the average weight of a group can signal a health problem, a feed quality issue, or a management failure. Investigate any unexplained change. **Track weight at key production points.** For breeding herds, track weight at weaning, at breeding, and at calving or lambing. These weights help you evaluate the effectiveness of your nutrition program and make culling decisions. ## Common Mistakes in Livestock Weighing Avoid these common errors to get the most from your scale system. **Weighing at different times of day.** Animals gain weight throughout the day as they eat and drink. A cow weighed in the morning will weigh less than the same cow weighed in the afternoon. Weigh at the same time of day for consistent comparisons. **Weighing after a long haul.** Animals lose weight during transport due to dehydration and manure loss. If you weigh animals immediately after hauling, the weights will be artificially low. Give animals time to rest and rehydrate before weighing. **Failing to calibrate.** A scale that is not calibrated will give inaccurate readings. Calibrate regularly and keep records of your calibration checks. **Ignoring the level.** A scale that is not level will not weigh accurately. Check the level regularly, especially after heavy rain or freezing weather. **Recording the wrong animal.** When processing animals quickly, it is easy to record a weight against the wrong identification number. Double check each entry before moving to the next animal. **Weighing animals that are moving.** An animal that is shifting its weight will not give a stable reading. Wait for the animal to stand still before recording the weight. **Comparing weights from different scales.** If you have more than one scale, they may not read identically. Use the same scale for all animals in a comparison, or calibrate all scales to the same standard. **Neglecting maintenance.** A scale that is not maintained will eventually fail. Clean, inspect, and service your scale on a regular schedule. ## When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent Most scale problems are mechanical or operational, not medical. However, there are times when the data from your scale should prompt you to seek professional help. **Unexplained weight loss.** If multiple animals are losing weight despite adequate feed and no obvious signs of illness, contact your veterinarian. Weight loss can be a sign of internal parasites, chronic disease, dental problems, or nutritional deficiencies. **Poor average daily gain.** If your animals are not gaining weight at the expected rate, your local extension agent can help you evaluate your nutrition program, forage quality, and management practices. They may also help you identify genetic or health issues that are limiting performance. **Sudden drop in group average weight.** A significant decrease in the average weight of a group can indicate a health emergency, such as a disease outbreak or a feed contamination issue. Contact your veterinarian immediately. **Scale readings that do not match expectations.** If animals appear healthy but the scale says they are losing weight, there may be a scale problem. Have the scale checked before you make management decisions based on the data. **Before making major culling decisions.** If you are considering culling animals based on weight data, it may be worth having your veterinarian or extension agent review your records and confirm that your interpretation is sound. ## Economic Considerations A scale system is an investment. The initial cost varies widely depending on the type of system you choose and the size of your operation. Consider the potential return on investment when deciding how much to spend. **Direct savings from accurate sales.** If you sell livestock by weight, an accurate scale ensures you are paid for every pound you produce. Even a small correction in weight accuracy can pay for a scale over time. **Improved medication efficiency.** Accurate weights prevent both underdosing and overdosing. This saves money on medications and reduces the risk of treatment failures or drug residues. **Better breeding decisions.** Weighing replacement females ensures they are ready for breeding, which improves conception rates and reduces the cost of keeping unproductive animals. **Early health problem detection.** Regular weighing can catch health problems early, when treatment is more effective and less expensive. **Better feed management.** Weight data helps you adjust feeding programs to match animal needs, reducing waste and improving feed efficiency. For most operations, a scale system pays for itself within one to three years through improved accuracy and better management decisions. ## Frequently Asked Questions **How often should I calibrate my livestock scale?** Calibrate at least once a month during regular use. You should also calibrate after moving the scale, after any repair, after a significant temperature change, and any time you suspect the readings are not accurate. If you use the scale heavily, such as weekly processing in a feedlot, calibrate more frequently. Keep a calibration log so you can track the scale's performance over time. **What size scale do I need for mature beef cattle?** Choose a scale with a capacity of at least 20 percent more than your heaviest animal. For mature beef cows, a capacity of 3,000 to 4,000 pounds is typical. For bulls, look for a capacity of 4,000 to 5,000 pounds. The platform should be long enough that the animal can stand with all four feet on the platform, usually 6 to 8 feet for mature cattle. **Can I weigh sheep on a cattle scale?** You can weigh sheep on a cattle scale if the platform is small enough to hold a single sheep and the scale is accurate at low weights. However, most cattle scales are not sensitive enough to weigh a 150 pound ewe accurately. A purpose built sheep scale with a lower capacity and higher resolution is a better choice for sheep operations. **How do I know if my scale is accurate without certified test weights?** You can use a known weight as a rough check. A 50 pound bag of feed or a person of known weight can give you a general idea, but these are not precise enough for calibration. For proper calibration, use certified test weights that are traceable to a national standard. Your local weights and measures office can help you find certified test weights or verify your scale. **Why does my scale give different readings for the same animal?** Several factors can cause inconsistent readings. The scale may not be level, the animal may be moving, the load cells may be damaged, or the scale may need calibration. Check the level, make sure the animal is standing still, and inspect the scale for damage. If problems continue, recalibrate and test with known weights. **Should I weigh my cattle before or after feeding?** Weigh at the same point in the daily routine every time. For most operations, weighing in the morning before feeding is convenient and gives consistent results. The important thing is consistency. If you weigh some animals before feeding and others after feeding, the weights are not comparable. **How do I weigh animals that are too large for my scale?** If you have animals that exceed your scale capacity, you need a larger scale. Do not try to weigh them in parts or estimate the weight. An animal that is too large for the scale can damage the load cells and produce inaccurate readings. Plan ahead and purchase a scale with enough capacity for your largest animals. **What is the best way to record weights in the field?** A rugged tablet or smartphone with a spreadsheet or farm management app is the most efficient option. Many scale indicators can connect to mobile devices wirelessly, so the weight transfers directly to your recordkeeping system. If you prefer paper, use a waterproof notebook and a consistent format. Whatever system you use, make sure you can read the records later and back up electronic data regularly. ## Related Farming Guides This section will be populated with links to other farming guides on this site that cover related topics such as [livestock handling facility design](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/livestock-handling-facility-design-chute-alley-crowd-pen), herd health management, feed efficiency tracking, and livestock marketing strategies. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Animal Welfare Audits: Building a Useful Farm Program](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/animal-welfare-audits-building-a-useful-farm-program) * [Total Mixed Ration (TMR) for Dairy: Mixing and Feeding Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/total-mixed-ration-dairy-mixing-feeding) * [Feed Additives for Livestock: Probiotics, Enzymes, and More](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/feed-additives-livestock-probiotics-enzymes) ## References - USDA Farm Management: https://www.farmers.gov/ - FAO Farm Management: https://www.fao.org/farmer-field-schools/en/ - FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/ > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.