Guide to Better Buying
Consumer Tips
- Look for the official seal on weighing and measuring devices. It indicates that the device has been tested and approved.
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Make sure the scale reads zero before the commodity is placed on the scale and watch the indicator when the weight is being determined.
- Make use of the customer scale; it is there for your convenience. Compare the labeled weight and value with the scale indicator.
- Commodities sold by weight must be sold by net weight. Net weight is the actual weight of the commodity, exclusive of the weight of the wrapper or container.
- If you have reason to believe you did not get correct weight or measure, contact the Weights and Measures Department immediately.
Laws Regulating Weights & Measures
- All weighing and measuring devices (gas pumps, scales, fuel oil meters, measuring containers, etc.) must be examined for type approval before they can be used in New York State.
- All weighing and measuring devices used commercially in New York State must be tested at least once annually
- All weighing and measuring devices that fail to conform to official standards shall be repaired or condemned.
- All commodities must be sold by net weight, standard measure or numerical count.
- All commodity containers must bear a plain and conspicuous statement of the net quantity of the contents.
- Scales used in over-the-counter purchases must be in plain view of the customer.
- All food or food products which are packaged or wrapped by the retailer in advance of being exposed or offered for sale by the retailer shall be accurately marked with (a) the net weight, standard measure or numerical count; (b) the selling price per pound or unit of standard measure and (c) the total selling price.
- Whenever food or food products are packaged or wrapped by the retailer in advance of being exposed or offered for sale, an accurate computing scale must be easily accessible to customers. A prominent and conspicuous sign reading “for customer use” shall be displayed on or near such scale.
- Firewood purchased from a dealer must conform to the advertised volume
- Accuracy in Pricing, Labeling; Items sold at retail must be accurately priced and scan at checkout for labeled or advertised prices. Goods found in clothing, hardware, food, drug, sporting goods or other retailers are included in these regulations. Additionally, sellers must post store policy in case of an incorrect scanned price.
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The above sections of the Law are for your protection. You can help make them more effective by reporting any violations to the Weights and Measures Department.
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