Class I and Class II are accuracy classes. Class I allows less error at the same tested length. That does not make it a complete measure of product quality, and it does not mean every supplier offers both classes. GIBOR currently supplies Class II handheld tape measures on confirmed models. We do not currently offer Class I.
Current GIBOR offer
Class II handheld tape measures only. The available model, length, scale, marking, sample, and supporting record are confirmed for each order. This page is an explanation, not a certification claim for every GIBOR model.
1. Class I and Class II in plain language
OIML R 35 describes accuracy classes for material measures of length. For a distance between two non-consecutive scale marks, the error limit is calculated from the tested length. Class I uses tighter coefficients than Class II. The difference is about measurement error, not the case, hook, lock, blade coating, packaging, or expected service life.
| Accuracy class | Basic error limit | What it means | GIBOR status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | +/- (0.1 + 0.1L) mm | A tighter error limit for the same tested length. | Not currently offered by GIBOR. |
| Class II | +/- (0.3 + 0.2L) mm | A wider error limit than Class I, but still a defined accuracy class. | Available on confirmed handheld models. |
In the formula, L is the tested length in metres, rounded up to the next whole metre. Buyers do not need to calculate every possible length before sending an RFQ. The useful first step is to state the model, length, scale, destination market, and any accuracy requirement already written into the buying specification.
2. What Class II means for a GIBOR order
A Class II requirement should be tied to a real product, not copied from a generic catalogue sentence. When discussing an order with GIBOR, confirm the exact handheld model and length first. Then review the class marking, scale layout, physical sample, and any test or inspection record required by the buyer.
GIBOR's current capability is Class II. We will not replace a buyer's Class I requirement with Class II. We also do not treat one Class II sample or one document as proof for every model, length, private-label version, or future shipment. Availability and records are checked against the actual order.
3. A simple 5 m Class II example
5 m between scale marks
For Class II, the basic calculation is 0.3 + (0.2 x 5) = 1.3 mm. The maximum permissible error is therefore +/- 1.3 mm for this example. If the measured interval starts from an end surface, the OIML rule adds 0.2 mm for Class II.
This example explains the formula only. It is not a test result for a GIBOR model or shipment. A usable record should identify the model, sample, tested points, reference equipment, readings, date, and the order or batch covered.
4. Five things to check before ordering
Confirm the exact handheld model and nominal length. Do not apply one model's claim to every tape measure in a range.
Check that the Class II marking is visible on the actual sample or product being approved.
Approve the scale layout: metric, imperial, or dual scale. Accuracy class and scale artwork are separate decisions.
Agree which points will be checked on the sample and keep the readings with the model or batch reference.
Ask which specification, sample record, or order document is available for that model. Documents are confirmed order by order.
Accuracy is one part of the product specification. Use the tape measure QC checklistfor the hook, lock, return action, blade appearance, case, packaging, and shipment checks. Use the blade options guide when the order also needs acrylic, nylon, matte, glossy, or stainless-steel blade decisions.
5. A shorter Class II RFQ
You do not need to send a standards report before asking for a quotation. The following details are enough for GIBOR to identify a relevant Class II handheld model and tell you what can be confirmed next.
Destination market: Reference model or product photo: Nominal length and blade width: Scale: metric / imperial / dual: Quantity: Logo and packaging requirement: Sample or record needed: Message:
6. Official references and limits
The class comparison and 5 m example in this guide use the accuracy-class coefficients in OIML R 35-1. OIML R 35-2 covers examination and test procedures. Buyers selling into the EU should also review the Measuring Instruments Directive MI-008 and confirm the rules that apply in the destination market.
Read the official sources on OIML R 35-1, OIML R 35-2, and EUR-Lex. These sources explain the framework. The final GIBOR offer still depends on the confirmed handheld model and order.
Class II handheld tapes
Send the model, length, scale, quantity, logo, and packaging requirement.
GIBOR will check the relevant Class II model, sample path, available record, and next quotation step for the order.