What is an LTL freight class?
Freight class is a standardized category used to help price less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), published by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), has 18 freight classes ranging from 50 to 500.
An NMFC item number identifies a commodity and its classification rules. Freight class is the rating category assigned under those rules. They are related, but they are not the same thing: a density calculation cannot identify your commodity’s NMFC item number.
- Density
- How much the packaged shipment weighs for the space it occupies, measured in pounds per cubic foot.
- Handling
- Whether its size, shape or other characteristics make it difficult to move safely.
- Stowability
- How readily it fits with other freight; restrictions can limit usable trailer space.
- Liability
- The risk of damage, theft, spoilage or damage to other freight.
What changed in the NMFC density scale?
The NMFC changes effective July 19, 2025 expanded the standard density scale from 11 to 13 subprovisions and moved many commodities to density-based classification. The higher-density bands now distinguish classes 60, 55 and 50.
That does not mean every shipment is classified by density alone. Check the current item, subprovision, packaging requirements and any handling, stowability or liability exceptions in ClassIT+ or with your carrier. An old invoice or an outdated commodity chart may no longer be a reliable reference.
Source: NMFTA’s classification update.
How to calculate pallet density
- Measure the greatest outside length, width and height in inches, including the pallet, packaging and projections.
- Multiply length × width × height, then divide by 1,728 to convert cubic inches into cubic feet.
- Divide the total packaged weight in pounds by the cubic feet to get density in pounds per cubic foot (PCF).
Worked example: one packaged pallet
A 48 × 40 × 48-inch pallet weighs 600 lb including the pallet and packaging.
48 × 40 × 48 ÷ 1,728 = 53.33 cubic feet
600 ÷ 53.33 = 11.25 PCF
On the standard 13-sub density scale, 11.25 PCF falls in class 92.5. This is a density-based example, not a final NMFC determination for an unspecified commodity.
For several identical pallets, the density remains the same when both weight and volume are multiplied by the pallet count. For different commodities or differently packaged units, record each unit separately and confirm whether the applicable rules allow combining them. Do not round density upward to reach a lower class.
Freight class density chart: 13-sub scale
Use this chart only when the applicable NMFC item uses the standard 13-sub density scale. Each lower boundary is inclusive; “less than” excludes the upper boundary.
| Density (PCF) | Freight class |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 | 400 |
| 1 to less than 2 | 300 |
| 2 to less than 4 | 250 |
| 4 to less than 6 | 175 |
| 6 to less than 8 | 125 |
| 8 to less than 10 | 100 |
| 10 to less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 12 to less than 15 | 85 |
| 15 to less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 22.5 to less than 30 | 65 |
| 30 to less than 35 | 60 |
| 35 to less than 50 | 55 |
| 50 or greater | 50 |
Sources: NMFTA density guidance and NMFTA’s 13-sub classification FAQ. Classes outside this chart still exist under other NMFC provisions.
How freight class affects freight pricing
Within a comparable LTL rating structure, a higher class generally carries a higher rate because of space or transport characteristics. But class is not a price by itself. Your lane, weight, carrier capacity, service requirements and applicable tariff or negotiated agreement also affect the freight price.
FAK means “freight all kinds.” A negotiated FAK arrangement can rate eligible commodities at an agreed class rather than their individual classes. Eligibility and exclusions depend on the carrier agreement; FAK is not permission to omit accurate dimensions, weight or commodity details.
A carrier may inspect and reweigh freight after pickup. If the actual measurements, commodity or required services differ from the quote, the shipment can be reclassified or rerated. Accurate inputs reduce surprises; this guide does not guarantee a final invoice amount.
Before you request an LTL quote
- A specific commodity description, not simply “general freight.”
- Current NMFC item and subprovision, if known; flag uncertainty rather than guessing.
- Packaged dimensions, weight and quantity for each pallet or handling unit.
- Pickup and delivery ZIP codes, facility types and loading availability.
- Liftgate, residential, limited-access, appointment or other service requirements.
- Hazardous materials, stackability restrictions and special handling requirements.
Keep measurement records and photos of the packaged freight. If the class is uncertain, contact Operation@FreightPricing.AI or call 770-588-0140 before booking.
Common freight class questions
Is class 50 always the cheapest freight price?
No. It is the lowest NMFC class, but the overall price still depends on lane, weight, services and carrier terms. Comparing different lanes or shipment sizes by class alone is misleading.
Can I find an NMFC code from dimensions and weight?
No. Those measurements determine density. An NMFC item also depends on the specific commodity and its applicable provisions; verify it in current NMFC information or with the carrier.
Does freight class apply to full truckload or parcel?
This guide concerns NMFC-based LTL rating. Full truckload and parcel services use their own pricing rules; do not apply this LTL chart to them as a universal rate formula.
Can smaller packaging lower my freight class?
It can increase density for an item rated by density, but only if the packaging remains compliant and protects the cargo. Include the actual shipping dimensions and confirm the item’s rules.
Compare rates for your actual shipment
Have your packaged measurements ready? Request live LTL rates, or compare partial truckload when your shipment takes up more trailer space. Shipment booking requires an approved Ship Now Pay Later credit line.