Preparing for the NMFC changes set for July 19, 2025? Access resources, learn more at www.nmfcchanges.com
NEW for Shippers, 3PLS—NMFC Item Lookup Tool: www.getclassification.com
In less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, density is one of the most important—but often misunderstood—factors that affect freight classification and pricing.
Put simply, density is the weight of your shipment divided by its volume. It’s measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF) and in many cases plays a critical role in determining the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC®) class of your freight—especially for items with density-based classifications.
In the NMFC, many items are classified based on density ranges. That means the exact same item can fall into different classes depending on the handling units density.. For example, an item that ships at 15 PCF might fall into a lower class than the same item at 5 PCF.
While many in the industry use, and some carrier contracts permit, straight dimensioning or default product assumptions, the truth is that if you get it wrong, you risk reclassifications, back charges, or shipping delays.
Unfortunately, that’s a common issue. We often see shippers:
The new 2025 NMFC changes introduce updated standard density ranges across many classifications, making it essential to recheck your commonly used NMFC items.
The new standard density breaks are:
Sub 1 | Less than 1 | Class 400 |
Sub 2 | 1 but less than 2 | Class 300 |
Sub 3 | 2 but less than 4 | Class 250 |
Sub 4 | 4 but less than 6 | Class 175 |
Sub 5 | 6 but less than 8 | Class 125 |
Sub 6 | 8 but less than 10 | Class 100 |
Sub 7 | 10 but less than 12 | Class 92.5 |
Sub 8 | 12 but less than 15 | Class 85 |
Sub 9 | 15 but less than 22.5 | Class 70 |
Sub 10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | Class 65 |
Sub 11 | 30 but less than 35 | Class 60 |
Sub 12 | 35 but less than 50 | Class 55 |
Sub 13 | 50 or greater | Class 50 |
These new ranges will impact many density-based NMFC items. Even a small difference in how you calculate dimensions can bump your item into a completely different class.
A big challenge in freight classification is the use of “straight dimensioning”—length × width × height—without accounting for the actual shape or packaging style of the item, for example, void fill, stackable contours, or curved surfaces. This method assumes uniform packaging, which isn’t always accurate. Irregular, stackable, or oddly shaped freight can result in miscalculated density and incorrect classifications.
Tips for Getting Density Right
Accurate density doesn’t just help you avoid penalties—it helps you ship smarter. It improves carrier relationships, reduces delays, and supports better transportation planning. In a cost-conscious LTL environment, understanding density is a strategic advantage.
NMFC® and National Motor Freight Classification® are registered trademarks of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. ClassIT® and ClassIT+® are also registered trademarks of NMFTA.
Adam Mercer is the Classification Development Manager at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™. In this role, he is instrumental in advancing initiatives to streamline and modernize the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC®), ensuring it remains relevant and efficient for the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. Adam collaborates with industry stakeholders to gather data and insights, enhancing the NMFC's accuracy and applicability. He also plays a key role in organizing and conducting public meetings of the Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC), where proposed amendments to the NMFC are discussed and evaluated. Mercer is a graduate of George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and earned his Bachelor of Arts in English with Honors, specializing in Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies.