Introduction
CAT scale cards are items given out at truck stops to document a commercial vehicle’s weight. When a truck driver weighs their rig on a CAT scale, they receive a small card showing the vehicle’s axle weights and total gross weight. CAT stands for Certified Automated Truck scale network. These cards serve as proof of weight for compliance with regulations as well as record keeping for the driver and trucking company.
Even though CAT scale technology has advanced over the decades, old scale cards can still be useful. Collectors may be interested in them for their history. Drivers also keep their scale cards for nostalgia and memories on the road. Additionally, the weights on old cards provide a snapshot of a truck’s stats at a certain point in time.
Reasons for Needing Old Cards
Many truck drivers and trucking enthusiasts collect old CAT Scale cards for their sentimental value. These cards represent beloved memories on the open road and serve as mementos from a driver’s years of traveling across the country. According to Fire Replicas, vintage trucks hold a special nostalgia for drivers, and old CAT Scale cards are part of that history.
In some cases, drivers may still operate older trucks that require using outdated CAT Scale technology. While many truck stops have upgraded to modern weigh station equipment, certain remote areas or privately owned scales may still rely on the old system. Drivers hauling loads with these classic rigs will need original CAT Scale cards to weigh in.
Additionally, collectors of truck memorabilia and scale replicas may desire old CAT Scale cards to complement their assortments. As highlighted on Etsy, enthusiasts enjoy decorating with these vintage trucking artifacts.
Buying Old Cards Online
One of the most popular ways to track down old CAT Scale cards is through online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy. Collectors often sell their duplicate cards or full sets on these sites. You can search for listings using keywords like “vintage CAT scale cards” or “CAT super truck cards.” Typical pricing on eBay ranges from $1-3 per individual card, or $30-60 for a full set of 32 cards. Complete 60-card collector sets may sell for $100-150.
Specialty trucking forums like The Truckers Report also have buy/sell sections where collectors may list cards for sale. Prices here are usually more reasonable than eBay.
When buying online, beware of counterfeit cards. Compare the card images closely to pictures of authentic cards. Fake cards often have poor print quality, glossy finishes, and colors that are off. Only buy from sellers with excellent feedback ratings.
Contacting Scale Manufacturers
The three main manufacturers of truck scales are CAT Scale, Air-Weigh, and Right Weigh. Each offers printed weight cards that truckers collect over time. To obtain old weight cards directly from the manufacturer, you can contact their customer service teams:
CAT Scale: According to their website, you can call CAT Scale customer service at 1-877-228-7225. However, a recent news article on their site says to call 563-284-6263 if you can’t get through on the main number. You may be able to inquire with them about ordering reprints of old weight cards you are missing from your collection. As one of the largest scale manufacturers, their customer service team should be knowledgeable on helping collectors obtain old cards.
Air-Weigh: The customer service number for Air-Weigh is 1-888-459-3247. Give them a call and ask about their policy on reprinting vintage weight cards for collectors. There may be a fee involved.
Right Weigh: You can reach Right Weigh customer service at 1-888-818-RAIL (7245). Ask them if they can look up your old weight records and send you reprints of cards you are missing. Make sure to have your account information ready.
The manufacturers want to provide good customer service, so they may be willing to help collectors get old weight cards for a reasonable fee. But their first priority is serving active trucker customers, so reprints for collectors are generally a lower priority service.
Checking with Truck Stops
Many truck stops that offer weigh scales may have unused old CAT Scale cards still in their inventory. When checking with truck stops, be clear about the specifics of the type of old CAT Scale card needed. Provide details on the year or years, any specific graphics or styles, or particular regions or brands.
For example, when contacting the truck stop, the request could be written as: “I am looking for any unused old CAT Scale weigh cards you may have in inventory from the 1990s for scales located in the Midwest region. Specifically cards with the green graphics and CAT Scale logo from that era.”
Being as precise as possible will help the truck stop know exactly what type of old card is needed and determine if they have any to offer from old stock. Assuming the truck stop did maintain unused card inventory over the years, contacting them directly and making a clear request maximizes the chances of being able to obtain the specific older CAT Scale cards of interest.
Contacting Trucking Associations
Another option is to reach out to trucking associations, as they often have connections with local groups of truck drivers who may have access to old CAT Scale cards. Some associations provide services for retiring truck drivers, so it’s possible they may donate or sell their collection of cards.
For example, according to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), many owner-operators keep their cards as collectibles when they retire from trucking. OOIDA members may be willing to part with some of their cards if they have duplicates. Checking with state or regional trucking associations could connect collectors with these retiring owner-operators looking to pass on their card collections.
Additionally, some local chapters of the Antique Truck Club of America (ATCA) may have members with old CAT Scale cards they’d be willing to sell or trade. These hobbyist groups tend to have connections within the trucking community to find rare collectibles.
With the right connections through a local or regional trucking association, collectors may be able to obtain cards from earlier series that can be hard to find through regular channels today.
Looking for Private Collectors
With CAT Scale cards issued over decades, many avid collectors have built up substantial personal collections. Connecting with these collectors can be a great way to obtain specific rare or vintage cards you’re missing.
Search online collector forums and Facebook groups to find other enthusiasts. Introduce yourself and describe the cards you’re seeking for your collection. Many collectors enjoy helping fellow enthusiasts fill in gaps.
You can also arrange trades or purchases directly with collectors. Having cards to trade can give you bargaining power if a collector has duplicates of a rare card you want. Be clear in negotiations and follow standard safe practices when arranging trades or sales.
Building relationships with other collectors can lead to future opportunities too. They may reach out down the road if they come across cards you’ve been searching for.
With courtesy and care, the collector community can be a valuable resource for obtaining cherished cards over time. Just be patient – finding that one elusive card may take persistence!
Using Image Reproductions
One option for obtaining old CAT Scale cards is to scan cards you already own or find images online and print reproductions. You could scan both sides of the card at high resolution or find images through search engines like Google. However, there are some legal issues to consider.
The artwork and design of the CAT Scale collector cards is copyrighted intellectual property of the CAT Scale Company. According to their website, “The cards were created for the exclusive use of CAT Scale and may not be reproduced in any way without prior written approval from CAT Scale.”
Before scanning or downloading images of the cards, it’s important to check the terms of use and verify you have permission. Distributing unauthorized reproductions could potentially lead to legal action for copyright infringement. If you want to legally reproduce the card images, you would need to contact CAT Scale and get their written approval first.
While image scanning seems like an easy shortcut, because the cards and artwork are protected intellectual property, this method involves legal risks. It’s safer to obtain original cards or authorized reprinted editions directly from the copyright holder.
Alternatives to Original Cards
People who want a functional equivalent to old CAT scale cards have some options. They do not need an original card to operate their trucks effectively. Two current alternatives include smartphone apps and modern card design.
Many truckers now use apps like Trucker Path to log their weights digitally. The app lets drivers record weights and share that data electronically. They can then access a complete weight history from their smartphones.
Drivers can also purchase newly designed weight cards that serve the same purpose as old cards while featuring a more modern look. Companies like AppWeigh offer digital scales paired with custom cards drivers can install in their trucks. The cards record weights digitally for a smooth user experience.
Conclusion
There are a few ways to obtain old CAT Scale cards and weigh slips, but it may require some persistence and creativity. Buying from online collectors or contacting scale manufacturers directly can yield original cards, but expect to pay a premium. Reproductions from images found online or provided by truck stops are a more affordable option that may suffice for some collectors. Whatever method you pursue, remember to be flexible – these vintage items are rare, so you may need to compromise on condition or era in order to find cards within your budget. With some resourcefulness, most dedicated collectors can locate satisfactory CAT Scale memorabilia to showcase.
Look outside the usual channels, get creative with reproductions if needed, and don’t get discouraged during your search. With the thrill of the hunt, half the fun of collecting is in the pursuit itself. Though original cards are ideal, the most important thing is being able to admire and preserve a piece of trucking history. As long as your collection reflects your passion, you’ve succeeded.
