What is Freight Class?
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a standardized system used in less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping to categorize freight based on specific characteristics. Freight classes range from 50 to 500, with lower numbers assigned to denser, easier-to-handle freight and higher numbers given to bulky, fragile, or high-risk cargo.
Freight Class Examples
- Low-class freight (50-85): Heavy, compact, and durable items like bricks, car parts, and hardwood flooring.
- High-class freight (200-500): Lightweight, bulky, or delicate items like kayaks, assembled furniture, or fragile electronics.
- Hazardous or high-value goods: Often classified in the upper range due to special handling requirements.
How to Avoid Freight Class Mistakes
Misclassifying freight can lead to unexpected fees, delays, or rejected shipments. To avoid these issues:
- ✅ Use a reliable classification tool – The NMFC Code Lookup Tool helps determine the correct freight class.
- ✅ Measure accurately – Always use precise weight and dimensions instead of estimates.
- ✅ Stay updated – Freight classifications change periodically based on industry regulations.
Why Freight Classification Matters
The NMFC system ensures efficiency, safety, and cost accuracy in LTL shipping. Proper classification helps:
- 📦 Optimize trailer space – Ensures cargo is loaded efficiently.
- 🚛 Prevent delays & disputes – Incorrect freight class can lead to billing adjustments or rejected loads.
- ⚠️ Ensure safety & compliance – Hazardous materials and fragile goods require specific handling.
Key Classification Factors
Freight class is determined by four key factors:
- Density: The space the freight occupies in relation to its weight.
- Handling: Ease or difficulty associated with loading and unloading.
- Stowability: How freight can be arranged or stored in relation to other freight.
- Liability: Probability of theft or damage, or possibility of damage to other freight.
How NMFC Codes Are Determined
Freight class is based on four key factors:
1️⃣ Density (Space Efficiency Matters)
Density is calculated as:
Cubic feet of cargo ÷ Total weight (lbs) = Density (lbs per cubic foot)
- High-density items (low freight class, cheaper to ship): Nuts & bolts, bricks, car parts, books.
- Low-density items (high freight class, more expensive): Ping-pong balls, kayaks, mattresses, assembled furniture.
2️⃣ Handling (Ease of Loading & Transporting)
- Easy-to-handle freight (low class): Boxed, stackable, and palletized goods.
- Difficult-to-handle freight (high class): Oddly shaped, oversized, or fragile items like loose car parts, bulky sofas, or hazardous materials.
3️⃣ Stowability (How Well It Fits in a Trailer)
- High stowability (low class): Uniformly shaped items like boxes of bolts or stacked pallets.
- Low stowability (high class): Irregularly shaped items like rolled-up rugs, large furniture, or loose automotive parts.
4️⃣ Liability (Risk & Special Handling Needs)
- Low-risk freight (low class): Durable, non-hazardous items.
- High-risk freight (high class): Fragile, high-value, or hazardous materials like fireworks, corrosives, or sensitive electronics.
Common NMFC Classes
- Class 50: Dense items like bricks or steel.
- Class 85-92.5: Automotive parts, machinery.
- Class 125: Household appliances.
- Class 250-400: Electronics, clothing.
Final Thoughts: Get Your Freight Class Right
Understanding freight class is key to avoiding extra fees, ensuring smooth shipping, and keeping your LTL operations efficient. Whether you're shipping heavy machinery, fragile electronics, or bulk materials, always:
- ✅ Use accurate measurements
- ✅ Check NMFC classifications
- ✅ Follow proper packaging guidelines
By getting your freight class right the first time, you’ll save money, prevent delays, and keep your shipments moving hassle-free. 🚛💨
Need Help with Freight Classification?
If you're unsure about your freight class, check with your LTL carrier or use the NMFC Code Lookup Tool to get an accurate classification.
🔹 Accurate freight class = Lower costs & fewer shipping headaches!