This paper describes the development of a precision 3-component load cell with plate beams which may be used for measuring forces Fx, Fy and moment Mz simultaneously in industry. We have derived equations to predict the bending strains on the surface of the beams under forces or moment. We have also determined the attachment location of strain gages of each sensor and fabricated 3-component load cell. To evaluate the rated strain and interference error of each sensor, we have carried out characteristic test of precision 3-component load cell. It reveals that the rated strain calculated from the derived equations are good agreement with the results from Finite Element Method analysis.