Weights & Measures

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

The first thing to do is to get as much information as possible. Know the pump number, the grade of gas, the price, the check-out register number, the aisle number where the item is located, the address of the establishment, the time of day, and any other information that you think might be pertinent. Call this office with this information at (781) 393-2507 or contact us using email wmeasures@medford-ma.gov We would like to have your address and daytime phone number. However, you may remain anonymous if you wish. Complaints are vital to our department. We take all complaints very seriously, and we respond to these as quickly as we can.

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. On occasion these decals may have inadvertently been removed due to the cleaning process of the device, contact the local weights and measures official if you have any questions about the device.

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 the local weights and measures official.