What is Freight Class?
Freight class is the common language of shipping—how carriers and shippers agree on the effort it takes to move a load.
Each product or commodity gets an National Motor Freight Classification® (NMFC)® freight class from 50 to 500, based on four key transportation characteristics:
Density
How heavy the freight is relative to the space it takes up.
Handling
How easy it is to move across a dock and into or out of a trailer.
Stowability
How effectively it can be stowed in a trailer for transport.
Liability
How likely the freight is to cause damage or be damaged.
The denser and easier to move, the lower the class—and the lower the cost. Bulkier, fragile, or hazardous items have higher classes.
Why the Right Freight Class Matters
Accurate freight classification keeps your shipments (and your business) running smoothly.
Using the correct NMFC item number means:
- Fewer billing surprises;
- Safer handling; and
- Faster, more efficient deliveries.
Misclassify freight, and you could face reclassification charges, delays, or damage. The NMFC helps you avoid those roadblocks and keeps commerce moving.
Avoid Freight Class Mistakes
Freight mistakes cost time and money—but they’re easy to prevent with the right tools.
National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc.’s® (NMFTA)® ClassIT+™ helps you find the correct NMFC item number, calculate density, and confirm freight class before you ship.
Always use accurate measurements for weight and dimensions—never estimates.
Get It Right
Every Time
LTL freight classification doesn’t have to be complicated.
With NMFTA tools like ClassIT+, you can quickly search, calculate, and confirm your NMFC codes. Because when you classify with confidence, your freight and your business gets to where it’s going.