Fuel is sold by volume in gallons or liters.  A computer in the gasoline pump calculates what you owe based on the amount and unit price of the gasoline.  Weights and measures officials post a seal to show the equipment was tested and found to be accurate.

All commodities must be marked with a statement declaring net contents.  Net weight does not include the weight of the bag, wrapper or container of any kind in which a commodity may be packaged.  This is called the tare weight, which must be accounted for before the product is weighed.  Inspectors from the State and County periodically check the accuracy of these pre-packaged items.

The Universal Product Code (U.P.C.) is used in most retail stores to scan the price of the item.  The price of the item is entered into a computer.  When the item is scanned, the price will immediately appear on the register.  The county auditor is helping to ensure that the labeled shelf price or the advertised price matches the price appearing at the checkout.

Error rates vary within each of Ohio's 88 counties.  Ohio's jurisdictions are very responsive to calls.  Upon receiving a complaint, a weights and measures official will usually inspect the site within 24 to 48 hours.

If an error is found, the facility's equipment may be temporarily shut down or the operators may be fined.   Records are maintained for all reported complaints.