Hanging scales are often a practical way of weighing awkward or large items that are not able to be placed on a top-loading platform scale. It is, ofcourse, necessary to have some type of overhead support structure to hold the suspended weighing scale and the item during the weighing process. They are available either as mechanical or electronic units.

Very small capacity suspended weighing scales are known as Spring Balances (also known as Tubular Balances or Pocket Balances). They may be hand-held and they may have dual units (grams and newtons). Spring Balances range in capacities from 50g to 50kg. They are generally non-trade instruments.

Hanging Scales are mid-range capacity suspended weighing scales. They range in capacities from 10kg to 200kg. Trade-approved models are available. Hanging Scales are a retail or light commercial alternative to Crane Scales.

Please note: Spring Balances and Hanging Scales can be purchased online through Salter Australia's web site. The site offers a 10% discount off recommended retail prices.

Crane Scales are typically an industrial design, built for rigorous, commercial use. Their capacities range from 300kg to 250t (although off-the-shelf capacities are typically limited to a maximum of 50t).