Scales and weighing systems designed for heavy use in the demanding environment of the waste and recycling industries. The waste and recycling industries revolve around weight, as both the buying and selling of recycled materials are based upon the weight of the collected items. Whether the goal is to optimize profits, to pay for precisely the materials deposited or purchased, or simply to offer an added level of security, scale equipment capable of reliable and repeatable weighing is essential for improving billing accuracy and the overall bottom line in recycling applications.