I don't quite follow the whole story. Dates and flight numbers would be helpful. If there was indeed weather (snow as you mentioned) you may be out of luck. Not sure how the weight and balance issues play in any compensation.

On the outbound was this an international flight? Did you not check in online? If there was only one flight a day to a destination and you miss the check in cut off that can create cascading problems for you which is what you experienced here.

I'm willing to bet you get a $200 travel voucher for your troubles.