Clip-on wheel weights are one of the highest-turnover items in any tyre workshop. They attach to the rim flange with a spring steel clip, which makes them fast to fit and secure under load - the reason they remain the default for steel wheels. This guide covers what to look for when buying clip-on weights in bulk.
How clip-on weights work
A clip-on weight is a cast or stamped mass attached to a steel clip. The clip grips the rolled edge (flange) of the wheel rim, so the weight sits on the rim rather than on the inner barrel. Because the clip must match the flange profile, clip-on weights are supplied in several profile families (see our clip profile guide).
Clip-on vs adhesive
| Feature | Clip-on | Adhesive (stick-on) |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting position | Rim flange (edge) | Inner barrel of the rim |
| Best for | Steel wheels, some alloy and truck rims | Alloy and aluminum wheels |
| Weight range | 5 g to 500 g | Mainly 5 g to 60 g |
| Installation | Needs the correct clip profile | Needs a clean, dry surface |
| Visibility | Visible on the rim edge | Hidden behind the wheel face |
The rule most workshops use: steel rims take clip-on weights, alloy rims take adhesive weights. Many distributors stock both - see our adhesive wheel weights guide for the stick-on range.
Materials: Fe, Zn and Pb
| Material | Density | Compliance | Typical positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fe (steel) | About 7.8 g/cm³ | Lead-free; accepted worldwide | Standard range |
| Zn (zinc) | About 7.1 g/cm³ | Lead-free; strong in Europe | Premium / harsh climates |
| Pb (lead) | About 11.3 g/cm³ | Restricted or banned in some markets | Legacy markets only |
Check compliance before you order. Lead is restricted or phased out in the EU, the UK, Canada and several US states, so steel and zinc are the safe default. See our Fe vs Pb comparison for the full detail.
Weight series and packing
Car clip-on weights are usually packed 100 pcs / 50 pcs per box, while truck weights are packed 50 pcs / 25 pcs. Retail-ready and private label packing are available for distributors.
What to check before you buy
- Clip profile range - confirm the factory covers the profiles your market services.
- Coating quality - ask for salt-spray test data, and confirm the clip cavity is coated to prevent galvanic corrosion.
- Weight tolerance - request the tolerance band and a sample inspection report.
- Materials - choose Fe or Zn for lead-free markets.
- Packing - bulk or private label, in the box counts your customers expect.
Build a complete range with both clip-on and wheel balancing weights, and see our guide to choosing wheel balancing weights. To request a quote, contact our team.
- Directive 2000/53/EC on end-of-life vehicles - lead restriction background for balance weights
- Product materials, profiles and packing: Century Auto Parts published product data