Fairness in Every Ounce: How Weights and Measures Transforms Commerce

As President of the Indiana Weights and Measures Association, I often reflect on how our work touches every corner of trade and commerce. Recently, I came across a fascinating article in the NCWM Newsletter that truly highlights what it means for equity to prevail in our field. It told the story of WIN Propane in Iowa, a small business transformed by the critical work of weights and measures inspectors.

The Role of Weights and Measures: More Than Meets the Eye

Many people believe our job is solely about protecting consumers, but the reality is broader. Weights and Measures professionals serve as impartial referees in the marketplace, ensuring fairness for both buyers and sellers. We’re the “third person,” as the article described—a vital player ensuring everyone gets their due share.

WIN Propane’s story demonstrates this dual role. During routine inspections by the Iowa Department of Agriculture’s Weights and Measures Bureau, inspectors discovered significant overfills in 15 lb propane grill bottles. Poorly calibrated mechanical scales were costing the company money with every sale, eroding their ability to compete in the marketplace.

The Transformation at WIN Propane

With the encouragement of inspectors and insights from a National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) survey, WIN Propane partnered with Kosan-Crisplant to modernize their plant. They replaced their outdated scales with semi-automatic digital systems. These upgrades not only brought the company into compliance but revolutionized their efficiency.

The results were remarkable. Within months, WIN Propane saw their profit margins increase by 40%, and they achieved a record year in production. The company’s precise measurements even caught the attention of Lettermen’s Energy Holdings LLC, leading to an acquisition. This success underscores the economic power of accurate measurements and fair trade practices.

Equity for All

The WIN Propane case is a reminder of why our work matters. By ensuring accurate measurements, inspectors uphold trust in the marketplace. Consumers get what they pay for, and businesses operate on a level playing field. This is equity in action—fair and equal trade as it should be.

As we continue our mission in Indiana, let’s remember the critical role we play. Whether calibrating a scale or conducting inspections, our efforts resonate far beyond the surface. We are stewards of fairness, champions of equity, and essential contributors to the integrity of commerce.

This story is a testament to the transformative power of our work as inspectors and a call to action for us all to continue striving for excellence.