Big changes are coming to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC®) system on July 19, 2025. It’s been said that this is the biggest change to the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry since deregulation, and carriers who ship LTL freight need to be ready.
Over 2,000 NMFC items are being reclassified. A new density scale is being introduced. And with that, the tools and rules that keep LTL freight moving efficiently are evolving.
If you’re not preparing now, you risk delays, misclassified shipments, and unnecessary chargebacks—all of which affect your bottom line and customer relationships.
What’s Changing?
- The 11-sub density scale is being replaced with a more detailed 13-sub density scale;
- Thousands of items are moving to full-scale, density-based classification;
- Generic headings are being consolidated for greater clarity;
- Items with special handling, stowability, or liability considerations will be clearly noted; and
- National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™ is launching ClassIT+, a modern digital LTL classification tool designed to simplify and streamline the process..
What Carriers Need to Do
- Review the 2025-1 Disposition Bulletin in the Public Docket Files;
- Audit your customers’ most frequently shipped items—are they affected?;
- Update internal systems to align with new item numbers and density scales;
- Educate your ops and customer service teams so they can support shippers during the transition; and
- Be ready to advise shippers on proper freight classification starting July 19.
The more prepared your team is, the more value you can provide to your customers.
Prepare Now
Visit nmfcchanges.com/carriers for a full breakdown of the changes, important dates, and tools to help you and your customers stay ahead.
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Avoid delays. Avoid chargebacks. Start preparing today.
