FAQs | Weights & Measures

What do I do if I want to file a complaint?

The first thing to do is to get as much of the following information as possible:

  • The pump number
  • The grade of gas
  • The checkstand number
  • The aisle number where the item is located
  • The address of the establishment
  • Any other information that you think might be pertinent

Call this office with this information at 508-580-7120 or e-mail us at [email protected]. It would be beneficial to have your address and daytime phone number if possible however, you may remain anonymous if you wish.

Your feedback is vital to our department. We take all complaints very seriously, and we respond to them as quickly as possible.

What are the dimensions of a cord of wood?

128 cubic feet. Stack your wood neatly by placing the wood in a row, with the pieces touching and parallel to each other, and with as few gaps as possible. Multiply the length times the width times the height of the stack. If this equals 128 cubic feet, then you have a cord of wood. Common measurements of a cord of wood are:  8'x4'x4' or 16'x2'x4'.

What is tare weight?

This is the weight of all wrapping, packaging, or any other material used to contain or transport the product. Items must be sold by net weight (the weight of the product itself). Selling a product by gross weight (net weight plus tare weight) is illegal.

How often do you check commercial weighing and measuring devices and gas stations?

We inspect these annually. To determine if we have certified the device, look for a current Weights and Measures seal. An example of our seal is shown below:

What steps can I take to prevent being cheated at a gas station?

Verify that the advertised sign and the pump price are the same. Make sure the pump starts at zero. Know the estimate of what the capacity of your gasoline tank is. Make sure a current Weights and Measures seal is visible on the pump.

What steps can I take to prevent being shorted on a weighing or measuring device?

Make sure the device is on a level surface and that you can see the display. The instrument must start at zero. There should not be anything touching the device. Watch the person doing the weighing or measuring to make sure that nothing extra is added. Verify that there is a current Weights and Measures seal on the device.

How can I avoid being overcharged at the register?

The best way to avoid being overcharged is to make a list of all the items you are going to purchase, and write down the shelf prices. Compare the prices you wrote down to the prices you are charged.

What should I do if I am overcharged?

If there is a discrepancy, notify the cashier. If the cashier does not change the price, talk to the manager about your dilemma. If the manager cannot or will not change the price for you, contact our department.

Where can I find more information?

The National Conference on Weights and Measures

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