Free NMFC Freight Class Calculator

Instantly calculate your freight class, avoid costly reclassification fees, and ship smarter.

All 18 NMFC classes
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NMFC Product Lookup

Search our database of 50+ common products to get typical freight class and NMFC codes.

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Freight Class Calculator

ITEM 1

SPECIAL HANDLING (affects class)

📚 NMFC Freight Class Reference Guide

Complete reference of all 18 NMFC freight classes with density ranges and common examples.

ClassDensity (lbs/cu ft)Common ExamplesRate
50> 50Steel, bricks, cement$
5535-50Hardwood flooring, bricks in boxes$$
6030-35Auto parts, bottled beverages$$
6522.5-30Books, bottled water, canned goods$$
7015-22.5Car accessories, food items, auto parts$$
77.513.5-15Tires, bathroom fixtures$$$
8512-13.5Crated machinery, cast iron stoves$$$
92.510.5-12Computers, monitors, refrigerators$$$
1009-10.5Boat covers, car covers, canvas$$$$
1108-9Cabinets, framed artwork, table saw$$$$
1257-8Small appliances, picture frames$$$$
1506-7Auto sheet metal parts, bookcases$$$$$
1755-6Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture$$$$$
2004-5Aluminum table, packaged mattresses$$$$$$
2503-4Bamboo furniture, mattresses, plasma TV$$$$$$
3002-3Wood cabinets, tables, chairs$$$$$$$
4001-2Deer antlers$$$$$$$$
500< 1Ping pong balls, bags of gold dust$$$$$$$$$

Freight Class FAQs

What is Freight Class?

Freight class is the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system used by LTL carriers to categorize shipments. There are 18 classes ranging from 50 (cheapest, densest) to 500 (most expensive, least dense). Class is primarily determined by density (weight per cubic foot), but also considers stowability, handling, and liability.

How is Freight Class Calculated?

Four factors determine freight class: (1) Density - weight per cubic foot (primary factor), (2) Stowability - ease of loading/stacking, (3) Handling - special requirements, and (4) Liability - risk of damage or theft. For most shipments, density is the determining factor.

Why Does Freight Class Matter?

Freight class directly impacts your LTL shipping costs. The difference between Class 70 and Class 100 can be 40-60% more expensive per cwt (hundred weight). Misclassifying your freight results in reclassification fees, billing adjustments, and delayed shipments. Getting it right the first time saves money and hassle.

What is Reclassification?

Carriers measure and reweigh shipments at their facilities. If your stated class doesn't match actual measurements, they'll reclassify it - often to a higher class. This can add 20-100% to your bill as a reclassification fee. Our calculator helps you get it right the first time and avoid these costly surprises.

Common Freight Class Mistakes

  • • Not including pallet weight in total weight
  • • Measuring incorrectly (always measure longest points)
  • • Not accounting for special handling factors
  • • Using product weight instead of shipment weight
  • • Ignoring packaging that increases dimensions

How to Reduce Your Freight Class

  • Increase density: Pack more weight into smaller space
  • Proper packaging: Avoid oversized packaging
  • Consolidate shipments: More weight = better density
  • Remove excess air: Vacuum seal where possible
  • Choose right pallet: Affects overall density