Nicky, I would never buy a used scale. I think they would be nothing but a headache. Is it a bar scale? how many load cells? Would you state certify the scale? and what would that intail?? Do lots of homework.
I know, I couldn't find a website or phone number. It is certifiable, didn't think about different states being different. Has a digital readout so am guessing it's electronic. The price is good, but it's a looong ways away.
Those are good points Katrina, I'll keep checking.
Many years ago Dad bought an old beam scale (I think it's a Pacific, I'll need to double check) I believe it came from an elevator. It was easy enough to set up, although we did dig a pit under it and put in pilings. He had a scale company come and put a digital scale head on it. It was easy to certify and we've sold cattle over it for years with no maintenance. Some of those old scales were very well made.
I guess the trick is to get a quality scale to start with, and you won't regret it.
I bought my scale clear down at the golf coast - - - but I got it for $7,000 and for a 10'X60' with all the electronics that was a bargain. It is certified to 120,000# in 20# increments - - - great for gravel and for loads of cattle but not good for an individual.
It is a Fairbanks Morse and I have had no problems with it in about 20 years - - - I always try to get the State DOT to certify as that is free - - - If I hire a scale company to certify it is $500.00 for them to show up ( I did not know th state would do for free the first 2 years and I paid )
Keep it clean and put a surge protector on the electronics and it should be good for a long time.
There are some good old scales around. Most importantly check with your state to find out what the regulations are for putting in a permanent scale. Each state is different and if not done right then the scale can't be certified. Norac and some others make a portable scale that is certifiable and is just set down on the ground. Pretty pricey tho!