Freight Class Calculator
Determine your NMFC freight class from package density. Required for accurate LTL freight quotes.
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Freight Class Reference Table
| Class | Density (lbs/ft³) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Class 50 | > 50 lbs/ft³ | Durable freight (fits on a standard 4×4 pallet) |
| Class 55 | > 35 lbs/ft³ | Bricks, cement, hardwood floors |
| Class 60 | > 30 lbs/ft³ | Car accessories, canned goods |
| Class 65 | > 22.5 lbs/ft³ | Car parts, bottled beverages, books |
| Class 70 | > 15 lbs/ft³ | Car engines, food items, auto parts |
| Class 77.5 | > 13.5 lbs/ft³ | Tires, bathroom fixtures |
| Class 85 | > 12 lbs/ft³ | Crated machinery, cast iron stoves |
| Class 92.5 | > 10.5 lbs/ft³ | Computers, monitors, refrigerators |
| Class 100 | > 9 lbs/ft³ | Boat covers, car covers, wine cases |
| Class 110 | > 8 lbs/ft³ | Cabinets, framed artwork, table saws |
| Class 125 | > 7 lbs/ft³ | Small home appliances |
| Class 150 | > 6 lbs/ft³ | Auto sheet metal parts, bookcases |
| Class 175 | > 5 lbs/ft³ | Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture |
| Class 200 | > 4 lbs/ft³ | Aircraft parts, auto sheet metal, aluminum table |
| Class 250 | > 3 lbs/ft³ | Bamboo furniture, mattresses, plasma TVs |
| Class 300 | > 2 lbs/ft³ | Wood cabinets, tables, chairs (set up) |
| Class 400 | > 1 lbs/ft³ | Deer antlers, ping pong balls |
| Class 500 | > 0 lbs/ft³ | Gold dust, bags of air, low |
What is Freight Class?
Freight class is a standardized classification system developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It is used by every LTL (less-than-truckload) carrier in the US to price shipments consistently. Classes range from 50 (densest, cheapest to ship) to 500 (lightest, most expensive). Getting the class wrong can result in reclassification fees from the carrier after delivery - which are often significant.
How is Freight Class Calculated?
The primary factor is density - weight per cubic foot. To calculate density, divide the total shipment weight in pounds by the volume in cubic feet. Higher density means a lower freight class number and lower rates per pound. For example, a shipment with a density of 12 lbs/ft3 falls into Class 92.5, while a density of 1.5 lbs/ft3 is Class 300.
Density alone determines class for most general commodities. Some commodities have NMFC-assigned classes based on item type regardless of density - electronics, hazardous materials, and high-value goods often fall into this category. When in doubt, provide the NMFC item number to your carrier or freight broker.
Why Accurate Freight Class Matters
LTL rates are quoted per hundredweight (CWT - cost per 100 lbs) and vary significantly by class. A Class 500 shipment can cost 5-10x more per pound than a Class 50 shipment of identical weight. If a carrier inspects your freight at the dock and determines the class is higher than what you declared, they will reclassify it and bill the difference - plus an inspection fee. Accurate freight class upfront avoids surprises on the final invoice.
Frequently Asked Questions
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