
1. Background
The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) has long been concerned with the proper units of measurement to be used in the sale of all commodities. This approach has gradually broadened to concerns of standardized package sizes and general identity of particular commodities. Requirements for individual products were at one time made a part of the Weights and Measures Law or were embodied in separate individual Model Regulations. In 1971 this "Model State Method of Sale of Commodities Regulation" was established (renamed in 1983); amendments have been adopted by the Conference almost annually since that time.
Sections with "added 1971" dates refer to those sections that were originally incorporated in the Weights and Measures Law or in individual Model Regulations recommended by the NCWM. Subsequent dates reflect the actual amendment or addition dates.
The 1979 edition included for the first time requirements for items packaged in quantities of the International System of Units (SI), the modernized metric system, as well as continuing to present requirements for inch-pound quantities. It should be stressed that nothing in this Regulation requires changing to the SI units of measurement. SI values are given for the guidance of those wishing to adopt new SI quantities of the commodities governed by this Regulation. SI means the International System of Units as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce.
This Regulation assimilates all of the actions periodically taken by the Conference with respect to certain food items, nonfood items, and general method of sale concepts. Its format is such that it will permit the addition of individual items as need arises at the end of appropriate sections. Its adoption as a regulation by individual jurisdictions will eliminate the necessity for legislative considerations of necessary changes in the method of sale of particular commodities. Such items will be able to be handled through the normal regulation-making process.
2. Status of Promulgation
The table beginning on page 8 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities.
*The National Conference on Weights and measures is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the States in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
| Preamble | |
| 1. | Food Products |
| 1.1. | Berries and Small Fruits |
| 1.1.1. | Definitions |
| 1.1.2. | Methods of Sale |
| 1.1.3. | Marking Requirements for Shipping Containers |
| 1.2. | Bread |
| 1.3. | Butter, Oleomargarine, Margarine, Butter-Like and/or Margarine-Like Spreads |
| 1.4. | Flour, Corn Meal, and Hominy Grits |
| 1.5. | Meat, Poultry, Fish, and Seafood |
| 1.5.1. | In Combination with Other Foods |
| 1.5.2. | Clams, Mussels, Oysters, and Other Mollusks |
| 1.5.2.1. | Whole clams, oysters, mussels, or other mollusks in the shell |
| 1.5.2.2. | Whole clams, oysters, mussels, or other mollusks on the half shell |
| 1.5.2.3. | Fresh oysters removed from the shell |
| 1.5.2.4. | Processed clams, mussels, oysters, or other mollusks on the half shell |
| 1.5.2.5. | Canned (heat-processed) mussels, clams, oysters, or other mollusks |
| 1.6. | Fluid Milk Products |
| 1.7. | Other Milk Products |
| 1.7.1. | Factory Packaged Ice Cream and Similar Frozen Products |
| 1.8. | Pickles |
| 1.9. | Advertising and Price Computing of Bulk Food Commodities |
| 1.9.1. | Total Price Computing |
| 1.9.2. | Unit Price Advertising |
| 1.10. | Generic Terms for Meat Cuts |
| 1.11. | Sale of Meat by Carcass, Side, or Primal Cut |
| 1.11.1. | Prior to Delivery |
| 1.11.2. | At the Time of Delivery |
| 1.11.3. | Exemptions |
| 1.11.4. | Right of Cancellation |
| 1.12. | Ready-to-Eat Food |
| 1.12.1. | Definition |
| 1.12.2. | Methods of Sale |
| 1.13. | Home Food Service Plan Sales |
| 1.13.1. | Definitions |
| 1.13.2. | Contract and Disclosure Requirements |
| 1.13.3. | Advertisement of Home Food Service Plans |
| 2. | Nonfood Products |
| 2.1. | Advertising and Price Computing of Bulk Commodities |
| 2.2. | Fence Wire Products |
| 2.3. | Coatings |
| 2.4. | Fireplace and Stove Wood |
| 2.4.1. | Definitions |
| 2.4.1.1. | Fireplace and stove wood |
| 2.4.1.2. | Cord |
| 2.4.1.3. | Representation |
| 2.4.1.4. | Flavoring chips |
| 2.4.2. | Identity |
| 2.4.3. | Quantity |
| 2.4.4. | Prohibition of Terms |
| 2.4.5. | Delivery ticket or sales invoice |
| 2.5. | Peat and Peat Moss |
| 2.5.1. | Declaration of Quantity |
| 2.5.2. | Units |
| 2.5.2.1. | Weight |
| 2.5.2.2. | Cubic measure |
| 2.6. | Prefabricated Utility Buildings | 2.7. | Roofing and Roofing Material |
| 2.7.1. | Definitions |
| 2.7.1.1. | Square meter | 2.7.1.2. | Square |
| 2.7.1.3. | Square foot |
| 2.7.2. | Declaration of quantity |
| 2.7.2.1. | Common fractions |
| 2.7.2.2. | Quantity statement |
| 2.8. | Sealants |
| 2.9. | Sod and Turf |
| 2.9.1. | Application |
| 2.9.2. | Definitions |
| 2.9.2.1. | Sod |
| 2.9.2.2. | Turf |
| 2.9.2.3. | Turf plug |
| 2.9.2.4. | Turf sod |
| 2.9.2.5. | Turf sprig |
| 2.9.3. | Quantity |
| 2.9.3.1. | Turf sod | 2.9.3.2. | Turf plugs |
| 2.9.3.3. | Turf sprigs |
| 2.10. | Softwood Lumber |
| 2.10.1. | Definitions |
| 2.10.1.1. | Surfaced (dressed) lumber |
| 2.10.1.2. | Boards |
| 2.10.1.3. | Timbers |
| 2.10.1.4. | Dimension lumber |
| 2.10.1.5. | Rough lumber |
| 2.10.1.6. | Matched lumber |
| 2.10.1.7. | Patterned lumber |
| 2.10.1.8. | Shiplapped lumber |
| 2.10.1.9. | Grade |
| 2.10.1.10. | Species |
| 2.10.1.11. | Species group |
| 2.10.1.12. | Representation |
| 2.10.1.13. | Minimum dressed sizes |
| 2.10.2. | Identity |
| 2.10.3. | Quantity |
| 2.11. | Carpet |
| 2.12. | Hardwood Lumber - Retail Sales |
| 2.12.1. | Definitions |
| 2.12.1.1. | Board foot |
| 2.12.1.2. | Surfaced lumber |
| 2.12.1.3. | Kiln drying |
| 2.12.1.4. | Surface measure |
| 2.12.1.5. | Species |
| 2.12.1.6. | Species group |
| 2.12.1.7. | Standard lengths |
| 2.12.1.8. | Stock widths |
| 2.12.2. | Identity |
| 2.12.3. | Surfaced (S4S) Lumber Manufactured to Stock Widths |
| 2.12.3.1. | Quantity |
| 2.12.3.2. | Representations |
| 2.12.3.3. | Minimum surfaced sizes for kiln dried lumber (width and thickness) |
| 2.12.4. | Random Width Lumber |
| 2.12.4.1. | Sales of random width hardwood lumber |
| 2.13. | Polyethylene Products |
| 2.13.1. | Consumer and Nonconsumer Products |
| 2.13.1.1. | Sheeting and film |
| 2.13.2. | Consumer Products |
| 2.13.2.1. | Food wrap |
| 2.13.2.2. | Lawn and trash bags |
| 2.13.2.3. | Food and sandwich bags |
| 2.13.3. | Nonconsumer products |
| 2.13.3.1. | Bags |
| 2.13.4. | Declaration of weight |
| 2.14. | Insulation |
| 2.14.1. | Packaged Loose-Fill Insulation except Cellulose |
| 2.14.2. | Packaged Loose-Fill Cellulose Insulation |
| 2.14.3. | Batt and Blanket Insulation |
| 2.14.4. | Installed Insulation |
| 2.15. | Solid Fuel Products |
| 2.16. | Compressed or Liquefied Gases in Refillable Cylinders |
| 2.16.1. | Application |
| 2.16.2. | Net Contents |
| 2.16.3. | Cylinder Labeling |
| 2.16.3.1. | Tare weights |
| 2.16.3.2. | Acetylene gas cylinder tare weights |
| 2.16.3.3. | Acetylene gas cylinder volumes |
| 2.16.3.4. | Compressed gases such as oxygen, argon, nitrogen, helium, and hydrogen |
| 2.17. | Precious Metals |
| 2.17.1. | Definition |
| 2.17.1.1. | Precious metals |
| 2.17.2. | Quantity |
| 2.18. | Mulch |
| 2.18.1. | Definition |
| 2.18.1.1. | Mulch |
| 2.18.2. | Quantity |
| 2.19. | Kerosene |
| 2.20. | Gasoline-Oxygenate Blends |
| 2.21. | Liquefied Petroleum Gas |
| 2.22. | Liquid Oxygen Used for Respiration |
| 2.23. | Animal Bedding |
| 2.24. | Wiping Cloths |
| 2.25. | Baler Twine |
| 2.26. | Potpourri |
| 2.27. | Retail Sales of Natural Gas Sold as a Vehicle Fuel |
| 2.27.1. | Definitions |
| 2.27.1.1. | Natural gas |
| 2.27.1.2. | Gasoline liter equivalent (GLE) |
| 2.27.1.3. | Gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) |
| 2.27.2. | Method of retail sale and dispenser labeling |
| 2.27.2.1. | Method of retail sale |
| 2.27.2.2. | Dispenser labeling |
| 2.28. | Communication Paper |
| 2.28.1. | Definitions |
| 2.28.1.1. | Communication paper |
| 2.28.1.2. | Basis weight |
| 2.28.2. | Method of Retail Sale and Labeling |
| 2.28.2.1. | Method of retail sale |
| 2.28.2.2. | Labeling |
| 2.29. | Sand, Rock, Gravel, Stone, Paving Stone, and Similar Materials when Sold in Bulk |
| 3. | General |
| 3.1. | Presentation of Price |
| 3.2. | Allowable Differences: Combination Quantity Declarations |
| 3.2.1. | Beverageware: Pressed and Blown Tumblers and Stemware |
| 3.3. | Labeling of Machines That Dispense Packaged Commodities |
| 3.4. | Railroad Car Tare Weights |
| 3.4.1. | Newly Stenciled Tare Weights |
| 3.4.2. | Allowable Difference |
| 3.4.3. | Verification or Change of Tare Weights |
| 3.4.4. | Special Cars |
| 4. | Revocation of Conflicting Regulations |
| 5. | Effective Date |
The purpose of this regulation is to require accurate and adequate information about commodities
so that purchasers can make price and quantity comparisons.
(Added 1989)
| BAR B Q | Barbecue | POT-RST | Pot Roast |
| BI | Bone In | RND | Round |
| BNLS | Boneless | RST | Roast |
| DBLE | Double | SHLDR | Shoulder |
| LGE | Large | SQ | Square |
| N.Y.(NY) | New York | STK | Steak |
| PK | Pork | TRMD | Trimmed |
1.11. Sale of Meat by Carcass, Side, or Primal Cut. -- The seller of a
carcass, side, quarter, or primal cut on a gross or hanging weight basis shall provide to the buyer
a written statement giving the following information at the times indicated:
(Amended 1985)
1.11.1. Prior to Delivery
(a) The name and address of the seller (firm);
(b) the date of the contract;
(c) the name and address of the buyer;
(d) the total net weight (hanging weight) of the carcass, side, or primal cut prior to cutting or processing;
(e) the USDA quality grade and yield grade of the meat to be supplied if so represented;
(f) the price per pound for each species (not including any inducements) and the total price of the sale order;
(g) the estimated cutting loss on the order in terms of percentage and weight [e.g., "40 percent, 72.5 kg (160 lb)"];
(h) a list by name and estimated count of each cut to be derived from each primal source;
(i) additional costs, listed separately, for cutting, wrapping, freezing, and finance charges, if any; and
(j) that the buyer may keep the cutting loss.
(Added 1985)
1.11.2. At the Time of Delivery. --
(a) The name and address of the buyer and seller;
(b) the date of delivery;
(c) the total net weight of the meat delivered;
(d) a list, by name and count, of each cut derived from each primal cut; and
(e) a separate indication of the quantity of any meat or other
commodity(s) received by the purchaser as an inducement in connection with the purchase of the
carcass, side, or primal cut.
(Added 1985)
1.11.3. Exemptions. -- This subsection shall not apply to the sale of
any carcass, side, quarter, or primal cut of meat that individually or collectively has a gross or
hanging weight of 22.6 kg (50 lb) or less.
(Added 1985)
1.11.4. Right of Cancellation. -- The buyer shall have the right to
cancel any carcass, side, quarter, or primal cut meat contract until midnight of the third business
day after the day on which the buyer executed the contract or after the day on which
the seller provided the buyer with a fully executed copy of the contract, whichever is later.
(Added 1985 and 1977; Amended 1980, 1985)
1.12. Ready-to-Eat Food
1.12.1. Definition. "Ready-to-Eat Food" is restaurant-style food offered or exposed for sale, whether in restaurants, supermarkets, or similar food service establishments, that is ready for consumption, though not necessarily on the premises where sold. Ready-to-Eat Food does not include sliced luncheon products, such as meat, poultry, or cheese when sold separately.
1.12.2. Methods of Sale. -- Ready-to-Eat Food sold from bulk or in
single servings packed on the premises may be sold by weight, measure, or count (count includes
servings).
(Amended 1993)
1.13. Home Food Service Plan Sales
1.13.1. Definitions.
As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings:
(a) Home Food Service Plan. "Home food service plan" means the offering for sale to a consumer, in the consumers home, any food item, or food item in combination with any nonfood item and/or services, whether or not a membership fee or similar charge is involved.
(b) Seller. "Seller" means any person, partnership, corporation or association, however organized, engaged in the sale of a home food service plan.
(c) Buyer. "Buyer" means both the actual and prospective purchaser, but does not include persons purchasing for resale.
(d) Contract. "Contract" means all of the collective written agreements subscribed by a Buyer at the time of sale relating to the purchase of a home food service plan, except promissory notes or other financing agreements.
(e) Food Item. "Food Item" means each edible product sold as part of a home food service plan, including, but not limited to, each constituent part or kind of meat cut from a primal source, each kind of whole poultry or poultry part, seafood products, and other like products.
(f) Nonfood Item. "Nonfood item" means each inedible product sold as part of a home food service plan, including, but not limited to, paper products, health and beauty products, detergents, cleaners and disinfectants, rolls of wrapping, and like products. The term does not include food items and durable consumer goods such as appliances.
(g) Unit Price. "Unit Price" means the price of a food or nonfood item sold as part of a home food service plan, computed to the nearest tenth of 1 cent when less than 1 dollar, and to the nearest cent when 1 dollar or more. The unit price, exclusive of any service charge(s), shall be expressed in terms of the price per unit of weight, measure, or count set forth in the "Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation" in the current edition of National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130.
(h) Service Charge. "Service charge" means the total price for any additional features, services, and processing associated with the purchase of a home food service plan, whether stated in terms of membership fees or otherwise.
(i) Primal Source. "Primal source" means the following cuts: (i) for beef, the primal sources are the round, flank, loin, rib, plate, brisket, chuck, and shank; (ii) for veal and lamb or mutton, the primal sources are the leg, flank, loin, rack (rib), and shoulder; and (iii) for pork, the primal sources are the belly, loin, ham, spareribs, shoulder, and jowl.
1.13.2. Contract and Disclosure Requirements
1.13.2.1. At the time of sale:
(a) At the time of sale, the Seller shall provide the Buyer with a single document, referred to in this subsection as the "written agreement," which shall clearly and conspicuously disclose the following:
(1) The name, address, and telephone number of the Seller and the name and address of the Buyer;(b) In addition to the above disclosures required in the written agreement, the following disclosures are required to be given to the Buyer at the time of sale:(2) The date of the contract;
(3) The price of the food and nonfood items of the home food service plan;
(4) The service charge or the price of any service charges associated with the home food service plan;
(5) The total price of the home food service plan, including the price of the food and nonfood items, and the price of any service charge; and
(6) A statement that the Buyer shall have the right to cancel the home food service plan contract until midnight of the third business day after the date on which the Buyer executed the contract or after the day on which the Seller provided the Buyer with a fully executed copy of the contract, whichever is later, by giving written notice of cancellation to the Seller. Compliance with requirements of Federal statutes, rules, or regulations governing form of notice of right of cancellation shall be deemed satisfactory notice of the requirements of this regulation.
(1) A written list of all food and nonfood items to be sold, which shall include:1.13.2.2. At the time of delivery:(i) The identity of each unit and, where applicable, the United States Department of Agriculture quality grade of the item, if so graded; the primal source; and the brand or trade name;
(ii) The quantity of each item sold;
(iii) The estimated serving size by net weight of each piece of meat, poultry, and seafood item offered for sale under the home food service plan, provided, however, that such estimates shall not differ from the actual weight at the time of delivery by more than 5 percent and the dollar value of the meat, poultry, and seafood items delivered is equal to or greater than that represented to the Buyer; and
(iv) The net weight, measure, or count of all other food and nonfood items offered for sale.
(2) A current unit price list stating in dollars and cents the price per kilogram or pound or other appropriate unit of measure, and the total sale price of each item to be delivered. This price list shall clearly and conspicuously make reference to the fact of whether there are additional costs disclosed in the written agreement relating to any "service charges" associated with the purchase of the home food service plan.
(3) If a membership is sold, a written statement of all terms, conditions, benefits, and privileges applicable to the membership.
(4) If a service charge is included, a written statement specifically identifying the service(s) provided and the price(s) charged for them.
(a) At the time of delivery, the Seller shall provide a receipt, for signature by the Buyer, disclosing the following information:
(1) The identity of the item and the net quantity of the contents in terms of either weight, measure, or count, as required by applicable law. The net weight of each food item delivered shall be within the limit specified in § 1.13.2.1b(i)(iii) Contract and Disclosure Requirements; and1.13.3. Advertisement of Home Food Service Plans -- Any advertisement of a home food service plan which discloses item pricing information in accordance with the provisions of this section shall set forth, in a clear and conspicuous manner, whether there are any service charges or other additional costs associated with the purchase of the home food service plan.(2) The unit price and total sales price of each food and nonfood item. The unit price shall be the same as that specified on the unit price list given to the Buyer at the time of sale.
Minimum standard surfaced sizes at the time of manufacture for both unseasoned (green) and dry lumber as published by the U.S. Department of Commerce in Voluntary Product Standard PS 20- 94 or latest edition. |
||||
| Product Classification (Nominal Size) inches |
Minimum Dressed Sizes** | |||
| Unseasoned | Dry | |||
| inches | millimeters | inches | millimeters | |
| Surfaced Lumber* | ||||
| 2 x 4 | 1-9/16 x 3-9/16 | 40 x 90 | 1-1/2 x 3-1/2 | 38 x 89 |
| 2 x 6 | 1-9/16 x 5-5/8 | 40 x 143 | 1-1/2 x 5-1/2 | 38 x 140 |
| 2 x 8 | 1-9/16 x 7-1/2 | 40 x 190 | 1-1/2 x 7-1/4 | 38 x 184 |
| 2 x 10 | 1-9/16 x 9-1/2 | 40 x 241 | 1-1/2 x 9-1/4 | 38 x 235 |
| 2 x 12 | 1-9/16 x 11-1/2 | 40 x 292 | 1-1/2 x 11-1/4 | 38 x 286 |
| Board Lumber | ||||
| 1 x 4 | 25/32 x 3-9/16 | 20 x 90 | 3/4 x 3-1/2 | 19 x 89 |
| 1 x 6 | 25/32 x 5-5/8 | 20 x 143 | 3/4 x 5-1/2 | 19 x 140 |
| 1 x 8 | 25/32 x 7-1/2 | 20 x 190 | 3/4 x 7-1/4 | 19 x 184 |
| 1 x 10 | 25/32 x 9-1/2 | 20 x 241 | 3/4 x 9-1/4 | 19 x 235 |
| 1 x 12 | 25/32 x 11-1/2 | 20 x 292 | 3/4 x 11-1/4 | 19 x 286 |
| *The dry thicknesses of nominal 3-in and 4-in lumber are 2- 1/2 in (64 mm) and 3-1/2 in (89 mm); unseasoned thicknesses are 2-9/16 in (65 mm) and 3-9/16 (90 mm). Widths for these thicknesses are the same as shown above. | ||||
| **PS 20-94 defines dry lumber as being 19 percent or less in moisture content and unseasoned lumber as being over 19 percent moisture content. The size of lumber changes approximately 1 percent for each 4 percent change in moisture content. Lumber stabilizes at approximately 15 percent moisture content under normal use conditions. (Added 1971) | ||||
| Table 2 - Minimum Surfaced Sizes for Kiln Dried Hardwood Lumber | ||
| SI Units for Thickness and Width | Thickness and Width in Inches | |
| Minimum Sizes in millimeters | Nominal Sizes | Minimum Sizes |
| 38 x 89 | 2 x 4 | 1-1/2 x 3-1/2 |
| 38 x 140 | 2 x 6 | 1-1/2 x 5-1/2 |
| 38 x 184 | 2 x 8 | 1-1/2 x 7-1/4 |
| 38 x 235 | 2 x 10 | 1-1/2 x 9-1/4 |
| 38 x 286 | 2 x 12 | 1-1/2 x 11-1/4 |
| 19 x 19 | 1 x 1 | 3/4 x 3/4 |
| 19 x 38 | 1 x 2 | 3/4 x 1-1/2 |
| 19 x 63 | 1 x 3 | 3/4 x 2-1/2 |
| 19 x 89 | 1 x 4 | 3/4 x 3-1/2 |
| 19 x 140 | 1 x 6 | 3/4 x 5-1/2 |
| 19 x 184 | 1 x 8 | 3/4 x 7-1/4 |
| 19 x 235 | 1 x 10 | 3/4 x 9-1/4 |
| 19 x 286 | 1 x 12 | 3/4 x 11-1/4 |
| The dry thickness of nominal 1-1/2-inch lumber is 1-3/16 inch. The dry thickness of nominal 1-1/4-inch lumber is 1 inch. Sizes are shown in inches and millimeters. Minimum sizes in millimeters are calculated by multiplying the size in inches by 25.4 and rounding to the nearest millimeter. The rule for rounding is: round up for numbers greater than 0.50 mm and round down for numbers less than or equal to 0.50 mm. In case of a dispute on size measurements, the inch measurement takes precedence. Nominal and minimum widths for these thicknesses are shown above. The SI equivalents for 1-inch and 1-3/16-inch lumber are 25.4 mm and 30.1 mm, respectively. | ||
purchaser, the kiln drying or surfacing charge shall be clearly shown and identified on the
quotation and invoice.
(Amended 1993)
2.13. Polyethylene Products
2.13.1. Consumer and Nonconsumer Productsoffered and exposed for sales shall be sold in the terms given in § 2.13.1.1. Sheeting and film.
2.13.1.1. Sheeting and film
Consumer products shall include quantity statements in both SI and Inch-Pound Units.
Consumer products:
(a) length and width (in SI and inch-pound units)
(b) area (in square meters and square feet)
(c) thickness (in micrometers and mils [NOTE 4, see page 96])
(d) weight (in SI and inch-pound units)
Non-Consumer Products:
(a) length and width (in SI or inch-pound units)
(b) area (in square meters or square feet)
(c) thickness (in micrometers or mils [NOTE 4, see page 96])
(d) weight (in SI or inch-pound units)
(Added 1982; Amended 1979, 1993, 1998)
NOTE 4: 1 mil = 0.001 in = 25.4 micrometers
(m). 1 micrometer = 0.000039 in.
(Amended 1993)
2.13.2. Consumer Products at retail shall be sold in the terms given in § 2.13.2.1. Food wrap, § 2.13.2.2. Lawn and trash bags, and § 2.13.2.3. Food and sandwich bags.
2.13.2.1. Food wrap
(a) length and width
(b) area in square meters and square feet
(Amended 1979)
2.13.2.2. Lawn and trash bags
(a) count
(b) dimensions
(c) thickness in micrometers and mils
(Amended 1993)
(d) capacity [NOTE 5, see page 96]
The capacity statement does not apply to fold-over sandwich bags.
2.13.2.3. Food and sandwich bags
(a) count
(b) dimensions
(c) capacity [NOTE 5, see page 96]
2.13.3. Nonconsumer products shall be offered and exposed for sale in
the terms given in § 2.13.3.1. Bags. (Package shall be labeled in SI or inch-pound units and
may include both units.)
(Amended 1998)
2.13.3.1. Bags
(a) count
(b) dimensions
(c) thickness in micrometers or mils
(d) weight
(e) capacity [NOTE 5, see page 96]
NOTE 5: See §10.8.2. Capacity of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation.
2.13.4. Declaration of weight. -- The labeled statement of weight for polyethylene sheeting and film products under § 2.13.1.1. Sheeting and film, and 2.13.3.1. Bags, shall be equal to or greater than the weight calculated by using the formula below. The final value shall be calculated to four digits, and declared to three digits, dropping the final digit as calculated (for example, if the calculated value is 2.078 lb, then the declared net weight shall be 2.07 lb.)
For SI dimensions:
M = T x A x D/1000, where:
M = net mass in kilograms
T = nominal thickness in centimeters
A = nominal length in centimeters times nominal width [NOTE 6, see page 96]
in centimeters
D = density in grams per cubic centimeter as determined by ASTM Standard D1505-68,
"Standard Method of Test for Density of Plastics by the Density Gradient Technique" (or latest
issue)
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density shall be 0.92 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For inch-pound dimensions:
W = T x A x 0.03613 x D, where:
W = net weight in pounds;
T = nominal thickness in inches;
A = nominal length in inches times nominal width [NOTE 6, see page 96] in
inches;
D = density in grams per cubic centimeter as determined by ASTM Standard D1505-68,
"Standard Method of Test for Density of Plastics by the Density Gradient Technique" (or latest
issue); and 0.03613 is a factor for converting g/cm3 to lb/in3.
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density shall be 0.92 g/cm3.
(Added 1977; Amended 1980, 1982, 1987, 1989, 1990, and 1993)
NOTE 6: The nominal width for bags in this calculation is twice the labeled width.
2.14. Insulation
2.14.1. Packaged Loose-Fill Insulation except Cellulose. -- The label shall declare:
(a) the type of insulation and the net weight with no qualifying statement; and
(b) the minimum thickness, maximum net coverage area, and
minimum weight per square foot at R-values of 11, 19, and 22. This information shall also be
supplied for any additional R-values listed.
(Amended 1990)
2.14.2. Packaged Loose-Fill Cellulose Insulation. -- The label shall declare:
(a) the type of insulation and the net weight with no qualifying statement; and
(b) the minimum thickness, maximum net coverage area, number of
bags per 1000 square feet, and minimum weight per square foot at R-values of 13, 19, 24, 32, and
40. This information shall also be supplied for any additional R-values listed.
(Amended 1990)
2.14.3. Batt and Blanket Insulation. -- The principal display panel of packaged batt or blanket insulation shall declare the square feet of insulation in the package and the length and width of the batt or blanket. In addition, R-value and thickness shall be declared on the package.
2.14.4. Installed Insulation. -- Installed insulation must be accompanied by a contract or receipt. For all insulation except loose fill and aluminum foil, the receipt must show the coverage area, thickness, and R-value of the insulation installed. For loose-fill, the receipt must show the coverage area, thickness, and R-value of the insulation, plus the number of bags used. For aluminum foil, the receipt must show the number and thickness of the air spaces, the direction of heat flow, and R-value. The receipt must be dated and signed by the installer.
Example: This is to certify that the insulation has been installed in
conformance with the requirements indicated by the manufacturer to provide a value of R-19
using 31.5 bags of insulation to cover 1,500 sq ft area. Signed and dated.
(Added 1979; Amended 1983)
2.15. Solid Fuel Products. -- Anthracite, semi-anthracite, bituminous,
semi-bituminous or lignite coal, and any other natural, manufactured, or patented fuel, not in
liquid or gaseous form, except fireplace and stove wood, shall be offered, exposed for sale, or
sold by net weight when in package form.
(Added 1979)
2.16. Compressed or Liquefied Gases in Refillable Cylinders
2.16.1. Application.-- This Section does not apply to disposable cylinders of compressed or liquefied gases.
2.16.2. Net Contents. -- The net contents shall be expressed in terms of cubic meters or cubic feet, kilograms, or pounds and ounces. See § 2.21. Liquefied Petroleum Gas for permitted expressions of net contents for liquefied petroleum gas. A standard cubic foot of gas is defined as a cubic foot at a temperature of 21°C (70°F) and a pressure of 101.35 kilopascals (14.696 psia) except for liquefied petroleum gas as stated in § 2.21.
2.16.3. Cylinder Labeling. -- Whenever cylinders are used for the sale of compressed or liquefied gases by weight, or are filled by weight and converted to volume, the following shall apply:
2.16.3.1. Tare weights
(a)Stamped or stenciled tare weight. -- For safety purposes, the tare weight shall be legibly and permanently stamped or stenciled on the cylinder. All tare weight values shall be preceded by the letters "TW" or the words "tare weight." The tare weight shall include the weight of the cylinder (including paint), valve, and other permanent attachments. The weight of a protective cap shall not be included in tare or gross weights. The Code of Federal Regulations Title 49, § 178.50-22 requires the maker of cylinders to retain test reports verifying the cylinder tare weight accuracy to a tolerance of 1 percent.
(b) Tare weight for purposes of determining the net contents. -- The tare weight used in the determination of the final net contents may be either:
(1) the stamped or stenciled tare weight or(c) Allowable difference. --If the stamped or stenciled tare is used to determine the net contents of the cylinder, the allowable difference between the actual tare weight and the stamped (or stenciled) tare weight, or the tare weight on a tag attached to the cylinder for a new or used cylinder, shall be:(2) the actual tare determined at the time of filling the cylinder. If the actual tare is determined at the time of filling the cylinder, it must be legibly marked on the cylinder or on a tag attached to the cylinder at the time of filling.
(1) 1/2 percent for tare weights of 9 kg (20 lb) or less or(d) Average Requirement. -- When used to determine the net contents of cylinders, the stamped or stenciled tare weights of cylinders at a single place of business found to be in error predominantly in a direction favorable to the seller and near the allowable difference limit shall be considered to be not in conformance with these requirements.(2) 1/4 percent for tare weights of more than 9 kg (20 lb).
2.16.3.2. Acetylene gas cylinder tare weights. -- Acetone in the cylinder shall be included as part of the tare weight.
2.16.3.3. Acetylene gas cylinder volumes. -- The volumes of acetylene shall be determined from the product weight using approved tables such as those published in NIST Handbook 133 or those developed using 70°F (21°C) and 14.7 cubic feet (101.35 kPa) per pound at 1 atmosphere as conversion factors.
2.16.3.4. Compressed gases such as oxygen, argon, nitrogen, helium, and
hydrogen. -- The volumes of compressed gases such as oxygen, argon, nitrogen,
helium, or hydrogen shall be determined using the tables and procedures given in NIST
Technical Note 1079, Tables of Industrial Gas Container Contents and Density for Oxygen,
Argon, Nitrogen, Helium, and Hydrogen and supplemented by additional procedures and tables
in NIST Handbook 133.
(Added 1981; Amended 1990)
2.17. Precious Metals
2.17.1. Definition
2.17.1.1. Precious metals. -- Gold, silver, platinum, or any item composed partly or completely of these metals or their alloys and in which the market value of the metal in the item is principally the gold, silver, or platinum component.
2.17.2. Quantity. -- The unit of measure and the method of sale of
precious metals, if the price is based in part or wholly on a weight determination, shall be either
troy weight or SI units. When the measurement or method of sale is expressed in SI units of
mass, a conversion chart to troy units shall be prominently displayed so as to facilitate price
comparison. The conversion chart shall also display a table of troy weights indicating grains,
pennyweights, and troy ounces.
(Added 1982)
2.18. Mulch
2.18.1. Definition
2.18.1.1. Mulch. -- Any product or material except peat or peat moss
(see § 2.5.) that is advertised, offered for sale, or sold for primary use as a horticultural,
aboveground dressing, for decoration, moisture control, weed control, erosion control,
temperature control, or other similar purposes.
(Added 1987)
2.18.2. Quantity. -- All mulch shall be sold, offered, or exposed for
sale in terms of volume measure in SI units in terms of the cubic meter or liter or in inch-pound
units in terms of the cubic yard or cubic foot.
(Added 1983; Amended 1987)
2.19. Kerosene. -- All kerosene kept, offered, exposed for sale, or sold shall be identified as such and will include, with the word kerosene, an indication of its compliance with the standard specification adopted by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) in Specification number D-3699 (1982 or latest revision).
Example: 1K Kerosene; Kerosene - 2K.
(Added 1983)
2.20. Gasoline-Oxygenate Blends
2.20.1. Method of Retail Sale - Type of Oxygenate must be Disclosed.
-- All automotive gasoline or automotive gasoline-oxygenate blends kept, offered, or exposed for
sale, or sold at retail containing at least 1.5 mass percent oxygen shall be identified as "with" or
"containing" (or similar wording) the predominant oxygenate in the engine fuel. For example,
the label may read "contains ethanol" or "with MTBE." The oxygenate contributing the largest
mass percent oxygen to the blend shall be considered the predominant oxygenate. Where
mixtures of only ethers are present, the retailer may post the predominant oxygenate followed by
the phrase "or other ethers" or alternatively post the phrase "contains MTBE or other ethers." In
addition, gasoline-methanol blend fuels containing more than 0.15 mass percent oxygen from
methanol shall be identified as "with" or "containing" methanol. This information shall be
posted on the upper 50 percent of the dispenser front panel in a position clear and conspicuous
from the driver's position in a type at least 12.7 mm (1/2 in) in height, 1.5 mm (1/16 in) stroke
(width of type).
(Amended 1996)
2.20.2. Documentation for Dispenser Labeling Purposes. At the
time of delivery of the fuel, the retailer shall be provided, on an invoice, bill of lading, shipping
paper, or other documentation a declaration of the predominant oxygenate or combination of
oxygenates present in concentrations sufficient to yield an oxygen content of at least 1.5 mass
percent in the fuel. Where mixtures of only ethers are present, the fuel supplier may identify
either the predominant oxygenate in the fuel (i.e., the oxygenate contributing the largest mass
percent oxygen) or, alternatively, use the phrase "contains MTBE or other ethers." In addition,
any gasoline containing more than 0.15 mass percent oxygen from methanol shall be identified as
"with" or "containing" methanol. This documentation is only for dispenser labeling purposes; it
is the responsibility of any potential blender to determine the total oxygen content of the engine
fuel before blending.
(Added 1984; Amended 1985, 1986, 1991, 1996)
2.21. Liquefied Petroleum Gas. -- All liquefied petroleum gases,
including but not limited to propane, butane, and mixtures thereof, shall be kept, offered,
exposed for sale, or sold by the pound, metered cubic foot [NOTE 7, see
page 99] of vapor (defined as 1 cu ft at 60°F), or the gallon (defined as 231 cu in at
60°F). All metered sales by the gallon, except those using meters with a maximum rated
capacity of 20 gallons per minute or less, shall be accomplished by use of a meter and device that
automatically compensates for temperature.
(Added 1986)
NOTE 7: Sources: American National Standards Institute, Inc., "American National Standard for Gas Displacement Meters (500 Cubic Feet per Hour Capacity and Under)," First Edition, 1974, and National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices."
2.22. Liquid Oxygen Used for Respiration
(a) If sold by weight, liquid oxygen must be weighed on an appropriate, sealed commercial scale. A pressure or other type of gauge may not be used to determine weight.
(b) A delivery ticket or sales invoice shall be provided and shall contain at least the following information:
(1) date delivered,2.23. Animal Bedding. -- Packaged animal bedding of all kinds, except for baled straw, shall be sold by volume, that is, by the cubic meter, liter, or milliliter and by the cubic yard, cubic foot, or cubic inch. If the commodity is packaged in a compressed state, the quantity declaration shall include both the quantity in the compressed state and the usable quantity that can be recovered.(2) name and address of vendor,
(3) name and address of the purchaser,
(4)(i) if sold by weight:
weight of cylinder before filling,
weight of cylinder after filling, and
the net weight of liquid oxygen delivered,
(4)(ii) if sold by measure:
method of measurement and any computation used to arrive at the net quantity of liquid oxygen delivered,
(5) the unit price,
(6) the total computed price, and
(7) weigher's or measurer's signature.
(Added 1989)
Example: "250 mL expands to 500 mL" ("500 cu in expands to 1000
cu in").
(Added 1990)
2.24. Wiping Cloths. - - Wiping cloths shall be sold by net weight or
by count plus size of wiping cloths. When sold by count plus size, and the wiping cloths are of
assorted sizes, the term "irregular dimensions" and the minimum size of such cloths
must be declared. The gross weight may not be printed on any package, either consumer or
nonconsumer.
(Added 1991)
2.25. Baler Twine. -- Baler twine shall be sold on the basis of length
in meters or feet, and net mass or weight by kilograms or pounds.
(Added 1992)
2.26. Potpourri -- Potpourri shall be sold as follows:
(a) Potpourri packaged in advance of sale shall be sold by weight, except when sold in a decorative container or sachet, which may be sold by count.
(b) Potpourri sold from bulk shall be sold by weight or by dry volume.
(Added 1992)
2.27. Retail Sales of Natural Gas Sold as a Vehicle Fuel
2.27.1. Definitions
2.27.1.1. Natural gas. -- Natural gas means a gaseous fuel composed primarily of methane that is suitable for compression and dispensing into a fuel storage container(s) for use as an engine fuel.
2.27.1.2. Gasoline liter equivalent (GLE). -- Gasoline liter equivalent (GLE) means 0.678 kg of natural gas.
2.27.1.3. Gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE). -- Gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) means 2.567 kg (5.660 lb) of natural gas.
2.27.2. Method of retail sale and dispenser labeling
2.27.2.1. Method of retail sale. -- All natural gas kept, offered, or exposed for sale and sold at retail as a vehicle fuel shall be in terms of the gasoline liter equivalent (GLE) or gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE).
2.27.2.2. Dispenser labeling. -- All retail natural gas dispensers shall be labeled with the conversion factor in terms of kilograms or pounds. The label shall be permanently and conspicuously displayed on the face of the dispenser and shall have either the statement "1 Gasoline Liter Equivalent (GLE) is equal to 0.678 kg of Natural Gas" or "1 Gasoline Gallon Equivalent (GGE) is equal to 5.660 lb of Natural Gas" consistent with the method of sale used.
2.28. Communication Paper
2.28.1. Definitions
2.28.1.1. Communication paper. -- "Communication paper" means packaged bond, mimeo, spirit duplicator, xerographic, and other papers, including cut-sized office paper and computer paper.
2.28.1.2. Basis weight. -- "Basis weight" as used in this regulation for labeling means the grade, category, or identity of the paper determined according to the latest version of American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Method D 646 for "Grammage of Paper and Paperboard." Basis weight is used as a standard of identity and is not considered a net weight declaration.
2.28.2. Method of Retail Sale and Labeling
2.28.2.1. Method of retail sale. -- All packaged communication paper kept, offered, or exposed for sale and sold at retail shall be sold in terms of sheet length and width and count.
2.28.2.2. Labeling. -- Communication paper in package form shall bear a label that includes:
(a) a declaration of quantity, in terms of sheet length and width and count, in the lower 30 percent of the principal display panel.
(b) a declaration of identity including the basis weight, and may
include such other information as grain direction, color, brightness, printed lines, and hole punch
information. Due to the variation in basis weight in manufacturing and analysis, the basis weight
declared on the label shall correspond to the basis weight declared by the original manufacturer.
(Added 1994)
2.29. Sand, Rock, Gravel, Stone, Paving Stone, and Similar Materials when Sold in Bulk. - - All sand, rock, gravel, stone, paving stone, and similar materials kept, offered, or exposed for sale in bulk must be sold as follows:
(a) Top-soil, fill dirt, aggregate or chipped rock, sand (including concrete and mortar sand), decomposed granite, landscape type rock, and cinders must be sold by the cubic meter or cubic yard or by weight.
(b) Flagstone must be sold by weight.
(c) Dimensional cut stone must be sold by square meter, square foot, or weight.
(d) This requirement does not apply to single stones with engraving
such as grave-stones, natural or manmade artwork, landscape boulders, and pre-cast uniform
size blocks.
(Added 2000)
3.1. Presentation of Price. -- Whenever an advertised, posted, or
labeled price per unit of weight, measure, or count for any commodity includes a fraction of a
cent, all elements of the fraction shall be prominently displayed, and the numerals expressing the
fraction shall be immediately adjacent to, of the same general design and style as, and at least
one-half the height and width of the numerals representing the whole cent. (Added 1976)
3.2. Allowable Differences: Combination Quantity Declarations. --
Whenever the method of sale for a bulk or packaged commodity requires the use of a statement
that includes count in addition to weight, measure, or size, the following shall apply to the
particular commodity:
3.2.1. Beverageware: Pressed and Blown Tumblers and Stemware. --
The allowable difference between actual and declared capacity shall be:
(a) SI units:
(2) plus or minus 5 percent of the stated capacity for items over 200
milliliter capacity.
(2) plus or minus 5 percent of the stated capacity for items over 5 fluid
ounce capacity.
(a) product identity;
(b) net quantity; and
(c) the party responsible for the vending machine. (Examples: "For
service or refunds contact: the XYZ Cola Company, Rockville, MD 20800; Telephone:
301-598-1000." or "See attendant inside for refunds.")
(d) The requirements for product identity and net quantity can be met
either by display of the package or by information posted on the outside of the machine.
3.4. Railroad Car Tare Weights. -- Whenever stenciled tare weights on
freight cars are employed in the sale of commodities or the assessment of freight charges, the
following conditions and requirements shall apply:
3.4.1. Newly Stenciled Tare Weights. -- All newly stenciled or
restenciled tare weights shall be accurately represented to the nearest 50 kilograms for metric
units and to the nearest 100 pounds for inch-pound units, and the representation shall
include the date of weighing.
3.4.2. Allowable Difference. -- The allowable difference between
actual tare weight and stenciled tare weight on freight cars in use shall be per § 3.4.2.(a) or
§ 3.4.2.(b).
(a) SI allowable difference:
(2) plus or minus 200 kilograms for cars over 25 000 kilograms to and
including 30 000 kilograms;
(3) plus or minus 250 kilograms for cars over 30 000 kilograms.
(2) plus or minus 400 pounds for cars over 50 000 pounds to and
including 60 000 pounds;
(3) plus or minus 500 pounds for cars over 60 000 pounds.
3.4.4. Special Cars. -- Tank cars, covered hopper cars, flat cars
equipped with multideck racks or special superstructure, mechanical refrigerator cars, and
house-type cars equipped with special lading protective devices must be reweighed and
restenciled only by owners or their authorized representatives:
(a) when car bears no lightweight (empty weight) stenciling;
(b) when repairs or alterations result in a change of weight in excess of
the permissible lightweight tolerance.
All provisions of all orders and regulations heretofore issued on this same subject that are
contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this regulation, and specifically,
______________ are hereby revoked.
This regulation shall become effective on _________________________________.
Signed ___________________________________
(1) plus or minus 10 milliliters for items of 200 milliliter capacity or
less;
(b) Inch-pound:
(Added 1973; Amended 1974, 1979 and 1980)
(1) plus or minus 1/4 fluid ounce for items of 5 fluid ounce
capacity or less;
3.3. Labeling of Machines That Dispense Packaged Commodities. --
All vending machines dispensing packaged commodities shall indicate:
(Amended 1995)
(Added 1972)
(Amended 1979)
(1) plus or minus 150 kilograms for cars 25 000 kilograms or less;
(b) Inch-Pound allowable difference:
(Added 1979)
(1) plus or minus 300 pounds for cars 50 000 pounds or less;
3.4.3. Verification or Change of Tare Weights. -- Tare weight
determinations for verification or change of stenciled weights shall only be made on properly
prepared and adequately cleaned freight cars.
(Added 1974; Renumbered 1985)
(Added 1973; Amended 1974, 1979, and 1985)
(Added 1971)
Given under my hand and the seal of my office in the City of _______________ on this
________ day of _______, A.D. 20____.
(Added 1971; Amended 1973)