Abstract: In a method and an arrangement for entering data into a scale via a serial interface from the postage meter machine in order to load updating data into the scale via a connecting cable, a reception unit (modem) or a chip card read/write unit of the postage meter machine can be accessed in order to call data from external memory means. Automatic checking of the most recent status of data contents stored in the scale is undertaken on the basis of check data in the postage meter machine using previously stored information about the modification to be made in the future and about the associated validity effective date. Updating in then undertaken, whereby updating data are transmitted via the postage meter machine to the scale after the activation thereof or after a modification takes effect, the data being communicated from an external memory or a chip card or via a communication network from a remote data center.