Freight Class Guide
Current NMFC density scale (FCDC 13-subprovision, effective July 19, 2025)
Freight class is a standardized classification system used by LTL (Less Than Truckload) carriers to categorize shipments and determine pricing. The system ranges from Class 50 (lowest, cheapest) to Class 500 (highest, most expensive).
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, maintained by the NMFTA, assigns freight classes based on four factors (see our freight glossary for definitions):
- Density — Weight per cubic foot (most important factor)
- Stowability — How easily it fits with other freight
- Handling — Special equipment or care required
- Liability — Risk of damage, theft, or causing damage
For most commodities, density is the primary factor. Higher density (more weight per cubic foot) = lower freight class = lower shipping cost.
FCDC 13-subprovision full-density scale, effective July 19, 2025.
| Class | Density Range |
|---|---|
| 50 | 50+ lbs/ft³ |
| 55 | 35–<50 lbs/ft³ |
| 60 | 30–<35 lbs/ft³ |
| 65 | 22.5–<30 lbs/ft³ |
| 70 | 15–<22.5 lbs/ft³ |
| 85 | 12–<15 lbs/ft³ |
| 92.5 | 10–<12 lbs/ft³ |
| 100 | 8–<10 lbs/ft³ |
| 125 | 6–<8 lbs/ft³ |
| 175 | 4–<6 lbs/ft³ |
| 250 | 2–<4 lbs/ft³ |
| 300 | 1–<2 lbs/ft³ |
| 400 | <1 lb/ft³ |
Density scale shown for reference. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is published by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), which is the sole authority on NMFC commodity classifications. For an authoritative class on a specific commodity, consult the NMFC directly via NMFTA's ClassIT tool or your carrier.
For most shipments, follow these steps:
- Calculate total cubic feet:
(Length × Width × Height in inches) ÷ 1,728 = cubic feet - Calculate density:
Total weight ÷ cubic feet = pounds per cubic foot (PCF) - Match density to freight class using the chart above
Many products have a specific NMFC code that assigns a fixed class regardless of density. Always check if your product has an assigned NMFC code before using density-based classification. You can look up NMFC codes using the official NMFTA ClassIT tool.
LTL carriers may inspect shipments and reclassify if they determine the stated class is incorrect. This results in billing adjustments and potential inspection fees. Always classify accurately.
The same product can have different classes based on packaging. Boxed vs crated vs loose, assembled vs knocked down — all affect classification. When in doubt, describe your packaging to your carrier.