Running a farm is a tough but rewarding business. A great deal of work and thought needs to be put in on a day-to-day basis, and in order to run a successful farm, having the right tools is crucial. This is especially true for livestock farms and the necessary weighing equipment that is used there. In order to find the right scale for weighing livestock, it is important to first carefully consider a few questions. Here is one of the more important questions to ask and answer before purchasing this essential gear.
Do I Need a Permanent or Portable Scale?
The question of whether or not you need a permanent or portable scale boils down to how you are going to be weighing your animals. You can set up a permanent or portable weighing station, and each has its benefits. Livestock scales on a permanent installation usually require that the load bars that are used for the weighing be mounted on concrete. This will provide an extra layer of reliability to the calculations and can also be a bit safer for both you and the animals. This scaling option will require a bit more planning, as the concrete platform needs to be completely level, but it is a great way to calculate the weight of groups of animals accurately.
If you don’t want to be confined to a single area for your weighing needs, then one of the many great portable livestock scales will be your best bet. These do not need to be mounted on concrete and can be quickly and easily moved around as needed. You simply place your load bars in the alley or chute the animals are passing through to get their weights. They can be placed on gravel, dirt or any other surface, which makes them very convenient.
It is important to make sure that the portable scale you are thinking about purchasing is wide enough, doesn’t have sharp edges, and comes with a mat of some sort to prevent the animals from slipping. This is true for permanent scales, as well. Also, make sure that the scale is made from a durable material, such as aluminum.
Making the Right Choice
Deciding among the many great permanent or portable livestock scales available is largely a personal choice and one based on the layout of your farm and livestock equipment. If you are planning on doing all of your weighing in a certain area, then a permanent scale solution may be right for you. On the other hand, if you are going to be moving your animals about, and may want to calculate their weights without taking them to a specific location, then a portable weighing solution should be considered.
