Crane scales are weighting devices specifically designed for suspended or overhead applications. When mounted on lift devices like electric hoists, cranes, or overhead trolleys with hooks or shackles, the crane scale displays real-time weighing when an item is suspended in the air.

As opposed to traditional floor scales that consume additional floor space and provide real-time weight readings when suspended items come to rest, crane scales require no additional floor space and therefore make lifting and material handling tasks much simpler and cost-effective in limited workspaces or industrial installations where lifting/material handling are part of day-to-day business practices.