Overview of Random Weight Barcode Scanning #

Random weight barcodes, often called embedded barcodes,  scanning allows register POS to read barcodes generated by label printing scales. These barcodes contain embedded data such as item number, weight, and price, which register point of sale automatically interprets at checkout.

This feature is ideal for businesses selling variable-weight items like produce, meat, cheese, and bulk goods.

Benefits of Random Weight Barcode Scanning in register #

• Faster checkout:  Cashiers can scan instead of manually entering weight or price
  
• Improved accuracy: Pricing comes directly from the scale—reducing human error
  
• Streamlined workflow: Weigh – label – scan – complete sale
  
• Consistent pricing: Ensures the price charged matches the label exactly
  
• Reduced training time: Simple scan-based process for staff

Settings in register Admin Dashboard #

This area is where the global configuration for how workstations interpret random weight barcodes is set. 

To enable and configure random weight barcode scanning:

1. Go to the register admin dashboard
2. Navigate to the Workstation Settings tab 
3. Select Manage Random Weight Settings
4. Enable Prioritize Random Weight Barcode
5. Select your barcode format.  This is a global setting that must match your Label Printing Scale settings.  See the table below for the format options.

Barcode Format	Example	Scenario
4 digit price	02SSSSSCPPPPC	If the calculated price is $99.99 and less.
5 digit price	02SSSSSPPPPPC	If the calculated price is greater than $99.99.
4 digit weight	02SSSSSCWWWWC	Where the calculated weight will not go over 4 digits.
5 digit weight	02SSSSSWWWWWC	Where the calculated weight is greater than 4 digits and will not go over 5 digits.

6. Depending on the barcode format, Price  or Weight you will select a yes or no.  

Price Barcode Settings Yes/No for 4 digit price and 5 digit price
Yes	If this is set to Yes:  The scan will calculate the quantity from the price on the tag. So if the price on the tag is $2.43 and your item costs $0.81/unit, we will calculate the quantity as 3 and display the line as 3 @ $0.81 = $2.43
No	If this is set to No: Price from tag is $2.43 the line is qty 1 @ $2.43
Weight Barcode Settings Yes/No for 4 digit weight and 5 digit weight
Weight decimal places	Indicate how many decimal places are used for weight in the barcode.4 digit example: If the barcode encodes weight as 1234 for 12.34 lbs, you would set this to 2. 5 digit example:  If the barcode encodes weight as 12345 for 123.45 lbs, you would set this to 2.

7. Test your barcode settings. 

Testing you random weight barcode settings #

Use this section below to test your barcode settings. 

1. Enter the unit price
2. Enter the barcode to test
3. Select Test Barcode and see the parsed results based on your chosen settings

Settings Example

Test Results Example

Defining the Barcode Format #

You will need to define how register interprets your scale’s barcode.  This is an example for a 4 digit price format.

4 Digit Price Example Scenario (2SSSSSCPPPPC)

Item: Salami

PLU: 60000 

Price per lb: $6.00

Weight: 0.997 lb

Scanned Barcode: 2 60000 0 0598 0

POS Action: The POS recognizes the 2 prefix, identifies product 6000, and automatically charges the customer $5.98.

Barcode Segment	Digits	Example Digits	Description
Prefix	2	2	Prefix (PLU indicator), Identifies the barcode as a random weight item.
Item/PLU Digits	SSSSS	60000	Portion of the barcode that identifies the product.  This is also the associated SKU in register and QuickBooks Online.
Check Digit	C	0	Used for 4 digit price and weight formats.
Price Digits	PPPP	0598	Defines whether the barcode contains:Total price or WeightThis example is for price digit:  $5.98
Check Digit	C	0	Validates the entire barcode data.

Tip: These settings must match your scale’s barcode format exactly.

How to Use #

Step 1: Weigh the Item

Place the item on your label printing scale.

Step 2: Print the Label

The scale prints a barcode label with embedded:

• Item/PLU
  
• Weight or price

Step 3: Scan at checkout

Scan the barcode in register.

Step 4: Automatic Entry

register will:

• Identify the item
  
• Apply the correct weight or price
  
• Add it to the transaction instantly
  

Best Practices #

✔ Work with your local Scale Dealer

Use scales that generate industry-standard barcode formats (commonly 4- or 5-digit PLU-based formats).

✔ Keep PLUs Consistent

Ensure:

• Scale PLUs match item SKU in register
  
• No duplicate or conflicting codes

✔ Keep Sell Price in Check

QuickBooks Online price = the Label Printing Scale price

✔ Test Before Going Live

Scan several labels to confirm:

• Correct item is recognized
  
• Weight/price calculates properly
  

✔ Train Staff on Exceptions

Make sure your team knows:

• How to handle unreadable barcodes
  
• What to do if an item scans incorrectly

✔ Maintain Your Scale

Work with a local scale dealer for:

• Setup and certification
  
• Label formatting
  
• Ongoing support
  

*register by ability business supports barcode scanning but does not provide direct support for scale hardware.

Troubleshooting #

Related blog & wiki articles #

• Sell Items by Weight in register
• register POS and inventory management
• sell by weight
• accessing the item list
• item search