In which situation is a weigh master's certificate necessary when selling salvage materials on the basis of weight?

A weigh master's certificate is crucial when one party is not present during the transaction, as it serves as an official record of the weight of the materials being sold. This ensures that both parties have an agreed-upon, reliable source of information regarding the weight, which is essential for accurate pricing and potential disputes. When one party is absent, they may not have firsthand knowledge of the materials' weight or their condition, making the certificate an important safeguard to establish trust and legitimacy in the transaction.

In this situation, relying solely on verbal agreements could lead to misunderstandings or dishonesty, hence the requirement for an official weigh master's certificate to document the transaction. This protects both the seller and buyer, ensuring that the sale is conducted fairly and according to established standards.