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.

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Each product or commodity gets an 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.
  • Faster, more efficient deliveries.

Misclassify freight, and you could face reclassification charges, delays, or damage. The NMFC helps you avoid those roadblocks.

Avoid Freight Class Mistakes

Freight mistakes cost time and money—but they’re easy to prevent with the right tools.
NMFTA’s ClassIT+TM 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

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 get to where it’s going.


NMFC Resources & Products

NMFC Products

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ClassIT+

Innovating how the LTL industry classifies freight with one intuitive platform.

NMFC Book

Access the hard-copy standard that provides a comparison of commodities moving in interstate, intrastate, and foreign commerce.

Classification Interpretation Assistance

Submit a commodity’s specific information and get an expert opinion on which NMFC item number and description applies.

SKU Interpretations Assistance

NMFTA staff is available to help shippers and 3PLs determine the proper classification for their products.

Public Dockets

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