NTEP vs Measurement Canada Approval | andweighing.ca

NTEP vs Measurement Canada Approval | andweighing.ca

NTEP vs Measurement Canada Approval: What Canadian Buyers Must Know

If you are purchasing a scale for commercial use in Canada, one of the most important factors to consider is certification. Many weighing devices are marketed as "NTEP approved," but that certification only applies to the United States. In Canada, scales used for legal-for-trade applications must be approved by Measurement Canada.

What is NTEP?

NTEP stands for the National Type Evaluation Program. It is managed by the National Conference on Weights and Measures in the United States. A device with NTEP certification meets U.S. standards for legal trade, but it is not automatically compliant with Canadian regulations.

What is Measurement Canada Approval?

Measurement Canada is a federal agency that regulates the use of weighing devices in commerce across Canada. If you are buying, selling, invoicing, or packaging goods by weight, you are legally required to use a device that has been tested, approved, and sealed by Measurement Canada.

Each approved device will have a unique MC approval number. This number confirms that the scale complies with the requirements of the Weights and Measures Act.

How to Recognize NTEP vs Measurement Canada Approval

  • NTEP Approval: Usually shown on a label as "NTEP CC" followed by a number (e.g., NTEP CC 08-045A2). This label may also include the words “Certified by NTEP” or reference to “Handbook 44” compliance.

  • Measurement Canada Approval: Will include a separate label or markings showing the MC approval number (e.g., "AM-5692") and a sealing provision such as a place for an inspection tag, holographic sticker, or government seal. Most units also include a bilingual (English and French) notice of approval reference on the data plate.

    Figure 1: Measurement Canada's Inspection Sticker

Are NTEP and Measurement Canada Certifications Interchangeable?

No. There is no mutual recognition between Canada and the United States for balance /  scale certification. A balance / scale with NTEP approval must go through a separate Canadian evaluation and approval process before it can be used for legal trade in Canada.

Why It Matters

If your balance /  scale is not Measurement Canada approved and you are using it in a legal-for-trade application, you risk:

  • Failing a government inspection
  • Being fined or penalized
  • Having your sales transactions challenged or invalidated
  • Damaging your business reputation

How to Confirm Measurement Canada Approval

  1. Check the scale or spec sheet for an Measurement Canada approval number.
  2. Look it up in the official Measurement Canada Notice of Approval database.
  3. Ask your local supplier directly.

At andweighing.ca, we clearly identify which A&D models are Measurement Canada approved. Our team can assist in confirming compliance and helping you select a suitable certified device.

Our Commitment

As the Master Distributor for A&D Weighing in Canada, Cambridge Environmental Products Inc. only supplies legal-for-trade A&D scales that meet Measurement Canada standards. We support our dealers and customers with certified equipment, inspection guidance, and proper documentation.

Need Help?

Contact us or your local A&D dealer, if you are unsure about your current scale’s certification status or need a compliant device. We will guide you through the process and ensure you stay within Canadian regulations.

Do not rely on NTEP certification alone. In Canada, only Measurement Canada approval makes a scale legal for trade.

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