As part of its ongoing effort to modernize and simplify the less-than-truckload (LTL) freight classification system, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc.® (NMFTA)® has released Docket 2026-2 for public review today, August 28, 2026. This next phase includes approximately 33 proposed changes focused on simplifying and consolidating National Motor Freight Classification® (NMFC)® items.
Industry participation is essential to this process. We encourage professionals across the supply chain to review the proposed changes and share questions, concerns, and feedback. Broad participation helps ensure the perspectives of shippers, carriers, and other industry stakeholders are considered as the NMFC continues to evolve.
Why This Update Matters
Many of the principles governing freight classification, released values, packaging, and shipping practices have been in place for decades. During that time, products, materials, values, service requirements, and freight-handling practices have changed significantly. As a result, applying classifications developed for an earlier marketplace to today’s products and transportation environment can create unnecessary complexity and make accurate classification more difficult. NMFTA’s goal is to modernize this transition and create stable, sensible shipping rules that support engagement across all sectors as supply chains move safely and efficiently into the future.
NMFTA is committed to developing a more modern, streamlined, and user-friendly classification system that reduces unnecessary complexity while continuing to serve the needs of the entire LTL industry. In evaluating each proposal, the FCDC weighs more than where an item lands on the classification scale. Packaging is part of the assessment, since the materials and methods used affect how a shipment handles, stows, and survives transit. So is how the freight is described at tender, because a classification only works if the shipper can apply it accurately at the point of shipment. And so is the documentation available to support that classification when a carrier questions it, which is often what determines whether a reclass holds.
Your experience and perspective are important to this effort. We invite you to review the proposed changes, give us your feedback, and become a part of shaping a classification system that is practical, equitable, and adaptable to an evolving transportation marketplace.
There are several ways to access and review the proposed changes.
How to Submit Feedback
Feedback for Docket 2026-2 can be submitted one of three ways:
Option 1: Complete the online submission form; or
Option 2: Send your feedback via email to fcdc@nmfta.org; or
Option 3: Submit your feedback via postal mail.
Our mailing address is:
Freight Classification Development Center
1001 North Fairfax Street, Suite 600
Alexandria, VA 22314
We invite all industry professionals to submit docket feedback via the form linked below.
Key Deadlines
Feedback submitted via mail, email or form must be received by the FCDC no later than 5:00 pm ET, Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
What to Include in Feedback
Feedback should address how items are grouped and how the class scales are structured, along with pertinent information relating to the transportation characteristics of the products involved: density, handling, stowability, and liability.
For comments on proposed packaging rules, data carries the argument. If you believe the proposed requirement is unworkable, support that position with the packaging you use today and how it performs in your damage and claims experience. Opposition backed by specifics gives the FCDC something to act on.
Attend the Public Meeting
If interested, you are invited to attend the FCDC meeting on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The meeting will be held at Marriott Long Beach Downtown in Long Beach, CA, commencing at 11:15 am PT. If you wish to schedule an appearance at the meeting, please complete the “Intent to Attend” form here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Docket 2026-2?
Docket 2026-2 is NMFTA’s latest round of proposed changes to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), covering approximately 33 proposed changes focused on simplifying and consolidating existing NMFC items.
How do I submit feedback on the proposed NMFC changes?
You can submit feedback on Docket 2026-2 in one of three ways: through the online feedback form, by email to fcdc@nmfta.org, or by postal mail to the Freight Classification Development Center, 1001 North Fairfax Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314.
When is the feedback deadline for Docket 2026-2?
Feedback submitted by mail, email, or form must be received by the FCDC no later than 5:00 pm ET on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Where and when is the FCDC public meeting on Docket 2026-2?
The FCDC public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Marriott Long Beach Downtown in Long Beach, CA. Industry professionals who wish to schedule an appearance can complete the “Intent to Attend” form.
