Ultimate Guide to LTL Freight Class Lookup and NMFC Codes
This guide helps you perform an accurate freight class lookup so you can quote with confidence and avoid costly reclasses. You will learn what data to collect—length, width, height, weight, and commodity—to calculate density and map shipments to the right class.
What LTL Freight Classes and NMFC Codes Mean Today
Use this section to find quick, practical steps: how the national motor freight system works, where NMFC codes fit, and when dimensional rating matters. We also show verification steps so your information is current before you book.
You’ll see how a lookup tool and a codes table speed decisions across less-than-truckload and truckload lanes. When a shipment is complex, consult an expert to prevent disputes with documented measurements and photos.
Knowing how the national motor freight system assigns classes keeps shipments priced and handled correctly.
The NMFTA sets the range from 50 to 500, which defines expectations for pricing and handling. A freight class combines density, handling needs, liability, and stowability to create a single reference point.
How the NMFTA defines classes 50-500
The numbering reflects how easy an item is to move. Lower numbers usually mean higher density and lower cost. Higher numbers cover light or awkward items that need special care.
Why carriers require NMFC codes for shipments under 20,000 pounds
Carriers use an nmfc code to confirm pricing, prepare equipment, and reduce delays. The NMFC database is gated, so many shippers rely on a broker or 3PL for accurate identification.
- Include class on the Bill of Lading to avoid disputes.
- Verify codes periodically—rules and commodities change.
- Document measurements and type of packaging at booking.
How to Do an LTL Freight Class Lookup Step by Step
Follow a clear, step-by-step routine to measure shipments, compute density, and pick the right preliminary class and code.
Start by capturing exact dimensions for each unit. Measure length, width, and height at the widest and tallest points. Include pallets and any overhangs. Record total weight for the shipment.
Convert volume to cubic feet: multiply L × W × H × pallet count, then divide by 1,728 to change cubic inches into cubic feet. This avoids errors when you calculate density.
Calculate density in pounds per cubic foot by dividing total pounds by total cubic feet. That density is the foundation for a preliminary freight class.
- Map density to a class using a lookup tool and note the tentative code in your TMS.
- Check NMFC listings for any commodity-specific fixed class; fixed codes override density-based estimates.
- Photograph labels, dimensions, and scales and attach them to the shipment record.
If pallets or packaging change, recalc immediately. Small shifts in foot or cubic measurements can push a shipment into a different freight class and trigger reclass fees.
| Step | Action | Why it matters | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measure | Length × Width × Height per pallet | Ensures accurate volume | Include overhangs and pallets |
| Convert | Divide cubic inches by 1,728 | Gets total cubic feet for density | Use a spreadsheet formula |
| Density | Total pounds ÷ cubic feet | Determines preliminary freight class | Round consistently |
| Verify | Confirm NMFC code for commodity | Prevents reclass fees | Ask carrier before printing BOL |
Density Made Simple: Pounds per Cubic Foot That Drive Class
A fast, repeatable density formula turns dimensions and weight into a predictable class estimate.
Quick formula: inches to cubic feet and density bands
Measure length × width × height in inches and multiply by pallet count. Then divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet.
Divide total weight by that cubic feet value to get pounds per cubic foot. This per cubic measure is the core input for estimating a freight class.
From 50+ lb/ft³ to sub-1 lb/ft³: how density shifts class 50 to 500
- Convert inches → cubic feet: (L × W × H × pallets) ÷ 1,728.
- Compute pounds per cubic foot: total pounds ÷ cubic feet.
- Use density bands as a guide; modest height or overhang changes can raise your class quickly.
| Density (lb/ft³) | Typical class | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 50+ | 50 | Lowest cost per unit |
| 15–22.5 | 70 | Mid-range pricing |
| 2–3 | 300 | Higher handling costs |
| 1–2 | 400 | Very light, bulky |
| 500 | Highest rate band | - |
Keep a worksheet for repeatable results. When density sits on a threshold, assume the higher class or confirm with your provider to avoid surprises from carrier adjustmentsto class codes.
Freight Class Codes by Example Items and Weight per Cubic Foot
Use concrete examples to match common items to likely shipping classes and expected weight per cubic foot.
Heavy, dense type examples like bricks, cement, and hardwood flooring usually sit in the 50–55 range. These items often exceed 30 lb per cubic foot and fit on standard pallets.
Mid-density items such as auto parts, tires, boxed books, and bottled drinks generally map between 60 and 125. Their weight per cubic foot ranges from about 7 to 35 lb depending on packaging.
Bulky goods—furniture, cabinets, mattresses, and TVs—tend to rate in the 150–300 bands. Volume, not just weight, drives these results; assembled wood pieces often fall near 250–300.
Ultra-light items like deer antlers, styrofoam, and ping pong balls occupy the highest bands (400–500) because they weigh under 2 lb per cubic foot.
| Example Item | Typical Range | Weight per cu ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bricks / cement | 50–55 | 30–50+ | High density, pallet-friendly |
| Auto parts / engines | 60–125 | 15–35 | Varies by crating and metal content |
| Cabinets / assembled wood | 250–300 | 2–4 | Volume-heavy; wood often pushes higher bands |
| Mattresses / plasma TVs | 150–300 | 2–7 | Bulky, require special handling |
| Styrofoam / ping pong balls | 400–500 | <1–2 | Ultra-light, high rate bands |
Quick tip: Use these examples as benchmarks. Always confirm exact measurements and packaging to finalize the freight class and avoid surprises at booking.
Finding and Verifying NMFC Codes Without Costly Reclasses
Confirming the correct NMFC code early prevents unexpected reclass fees and delivery delays.
Start with a freight class lookup chart and an NMFC code lookup tool to narrow options before you create the BOL.
Many providers offer these reference tools, but national motor freight listings change. Always verify the current entry with your carrier or an expert before you book.
Practical steps to reduce reclass risk
- Identify fixed-class commodities, such as certain auto transmissions, where the NMFC assigns a permanent class irrespective of density.
- Document the exact commodity description, packaging, and any special handling notes to match NMFC language.
- Save screenshots or confirmations and tag them to the shipment record to resolve post-audit questions.
- Train customer service and warehouse teams to use consistent class codes references and maintain a "last verified" date for critical SKUs.
| Action | Why it matters | Who to contact |
|---|---|---|
| Use lookup chart + tool | Narrows likely codes before booking | Internal shipper or 3PL |
| Verify current listing | Avoids surprise reclasses | Carrier or industry expert |
| Document & store confirmations | Evidence for audits and disputes | Operations and CS teams |
| Escalate disagreements | Reconcile codes before tender | Provider or 3PL with NMFC access |
Beyond Density: Handling, Liability, and Stowability Factors
Density is only one input. Operational traits often change the applied freight classification. Handling needs, liability risks, and how a load stows in a trailer influence the final price and assessed code.
Fragility and special handling that can raise your class
Fragile items or goods needing lift-gate, white-glove, or extra bracing commonly receive a higher class. Carriers treat added handling as increased operational risk.
Good packaging lowers that risk. Pallet bracing, corner protectors, and clear instructions reduce chances of upcharges.
Perishability, value, and ability to damage adjacent freight
Perishable or high-value shipments may get stricter handling codes and higher liability fees. Items that can contaminate or crush neighbors raise the assessed rate.
Stackability and turnability: maximizing trailer utilization
Non-stackable or odd-shaped loads use more trailer space. If pallets cannot turn to fit side-by-side, linear feet consumed increases costs.
| Factor | Impact | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fragility | Higher handling fee | Improve packaging; note only necessary handling on BOL |
| Liability (perish/value) | Raised rate or surcharge | Document value; insure or segregate when needed |
| Stackability/Turnability | Linear feet upcharge or discount | Configure pallets edge-to-edge; confirm equipment |
Dimensional Rating vs. NMFC: Which One Affects Your Quote?
Dimensional pricing can change a quoted rate when measured cube and actual weight tell a different story. Dimensional rating uses precise dimensions and weight to price by space occupied, while NMFC pricing relies on commodity and published class codes.
Terminals increasingly deploy dimensional scanners. If the scanned cube is larger than your declared dimensions, the carrier can adjust the bill based on the scanner’s table.
When scanners and linear feet override expectations
Linear foot charges apply when pallets or odd-shaped pallets consume excessive trailer length. Plan pallet orientation to reduce linear foot usage and avoid extra fees.
Who benefits and who pays more
- Dense, compact shipments often pay less under dim rating because occupied space is small relative to weight.
- Bulky, low-density types typically pay more when pricing follows dimensional results instead of NMFC codes.
- For mixed-type loads, model both methods to spot exposure before tendering.
- Keep photos, tape-measure readouts, and scale prints to reconcile any post-scan adjustments with your carrier.
| Factor | Dim Rating | NMFC |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Cube & weight | Commodity & published code |
| Best for | Dense shipments | Fixed commodity types |
| Risk | Scanner finds larger cube | Fixed codes may override density |
Packaging, Pallets, and Cases: Tactics to Improve Your Class
Small changes to how you pack cases can yield measurable rate savings at tender.
Build pallets edge-to-edge and avoid overhangs so loads stack cleanly and scan accurately.
Reduce open space inside cartons to increase density and lower assessed class. Use right-sized cartons and denser dunnage for heavy SKUs.
- Choose sturdy wood pallets sized to your cases so layers align and cube is maximized.
- Record precise dimensions and weight on labels and the BOL to prevent remeasures.
- Use corner boards, banding, and stretch wrap to keep pallet height stable in transit.
- Photograph finished pallets with tape-measured height and labeled weight before pickup.
- For fragile type items, prefer internal bracing over external oversizing that raises cubic and foot counts.
| Action | Benefit | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Edge-to-edge pallet build | Improves stackability | Lower linear fees |
| Right-sized cartons | Raises pounds per cubic | Better rate eligibility |
| Accurate BOL codes | Reduces disputes | Fewer reclass charges |
Tip: Standardize case counts per layer to hit repeatable heights that fit trailer footprints. Print the correct codes and freight class on the BOL — carriers can assess the higher of listed or actual results.
LTL Freight Class Lookup for Common Categories
Match each item type to example densities and packaging notes to get reliable class estimates before booking.
Automotive: engines, transmissions, tires, sheet metal
Crated engines are dense and often map to lower bands; sheet metal and body panels are lighter per cubic and may rate higher. Tires commonly land near Class 77.5—confirm by weight and packaging.
Furniture and cabinets: wood, metal, assembled vs. flat-packed
Assembled wood cabinets and couches trend toward higher bands (175–300). Flat-packed pieces improve stackability and often reduce assessed class. Consider right-sized cartons to raise pounds per cubic.
Building materials: doors, tile/flooring, stone, siding
Bricks, cement, and hardwood flooring usually sit at the low end (50–55) due to density. Long doors or stone slabs may climb because length and special handling affect linear foot usage.
Electronics and appliances: computers, TVs, refrigerators
Computers and refrigerators commonly map to roughly 92.5–100. Large TVs and plasma screens often rate 250+ because they are bulky and fragile.
Food and consumer goods: beverages, dry foods, wine cases
Bottled beverages and wine cases typically range 65–100 depending on case pack density and pallet build. Always capture dimensions, total cubic foot, and weight before tender and verify with the carrier.
- Tip: Keep a short reference sheet by category to speed quoting and QA checks.
- Tip: Verify NMFC wording where fixed rules exist, especially for transmissions or standard mattresses.
| Category | Typical Range | Key note |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | 50–125 | Density and crating matter |
| Furniture / cabinets | 175–300 | Flat-pack lowers rates |
| Building materials | 50–55 | Heavy, dense items |
| Electronics / appliances | 92.5–250+ | Fragility raises class |
Conclusion
Validate your numbers and protect each shipment. Recalculate pounds per cubic foot, confirm total weight, and ensure your per cubic measurements match what the carrier will see.
Confirm NMFC and national motor listings and lock in class codes before you print the BOL. Codes change; re-verify with a motor freight source or an expert when items are unusual or high value.
Design packaging to raise density and improve stackability. Track photos, tape-measure readouts, and a record of cubic foot math to defend your booking if a terminal recheck occurs.
When sizes or fragility push rates higher, compare truckload options and update your living library of codes and benchmarks to keep quotes accurate and claims rare.
FAQ
What does the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) use to define classes 50–500?
The NMFTA defines classes using density, stowability, liability, and handling. Density is pounds per cubic foot calculated from weight and cubic dimensions. Items with high density and low handling requirements fall toward class 50; very light, hard-to-stow, or fragile goods trend toward class 500. Always confirm the commodity's NMFC code for final classification.
Why do carriers require an NMFC code for shipments under 20,000 pounds?
Carriers need an NMFC code to standardize billing, manage liability, and assign correct rates for less-than-truckload shipments under 20,000 pounds. The code identifies commodity description, handling instructions, and whether special packaging or services apply, reducing reclass and claim risk.
How do I measure dimensions to calculate density?
Measure length, width, and height in inches for the full packaged unit or pallet. Multiply those three measurements, divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet, then divide total pounds by cubic feet to get density in pounds per cubic foot. Round per carrier rules before mapping to a class band.
What density bands map to common class ranges?
Typical density bands: 50–55 classes for 50+ lb/ft³, 60–92 classes for mid-high densities, 100–150 for moderate densities, 200–300 for bulkier items, and 400–500 for ultra-light goods under about 1–2 lb/ft³. Use a current class chart or NMFC lookup tool to pick the precise code.
How can I map density to a preliminary freight classification?
After calculating density, consult a freight class chart to find the nearest band. Then identify the commodity's NMFC code to confirm if handling, stowability, or liability adjustments change the class. If in doubt, contact the carrier or a third-party logistics provider for verification.
When should I confirm the commodity-specific NMFC code before booking?
Confirm the NMFC code before you tender the shipment—especially for mixed goods, high-value items, or unusual packaging. Misclassification can cause reclass fees or denied claims. Use online NMFC lookup tools and compare with carrier requirements.
Which items typically fall into class 50–55?
Very dense, heavy items like bricks, cement bags, and hardwood flooring usually fall in class 50–55. These commodities pack high weight into small cubic volume, decreasing shipping cost per pound under standard tariffs.
What examples fit mid-density classes (60–125)?
Auto parts, tires, and many appliances generally land in mid-density ranges. Their balance of weight and volume plus average handling needs places them in classes that carriers price broadly for machine parts and packaged equipment.
How are bulky items like furniture and mattresses classified?
Bulky goods—furniture, cabinets, mattresses, TVs—often map to classes 150–300 because they consume trailer space and may require special handling or lift-gate service. Proper palletization and packaging can sometimes lower the class by increasing density or stackability.
What causes an item to be classed at 400–500?
Ultra-light, bulky, or fragile items—expanded polystyrene, antlers, or oversized foam—fit classes 400–500. Low density combined with poor stackability or high damage risk pushes commodities into premium class bands.
How do handling, liability, and stowability affect the final code?
Even with the same density, fragile goods, hazardous materials, or items that block trailer access can be up-classed due to higher handling and liability. Stowability issues—odd shapes or inability to stack—also increase class and rate.
What is dimensional rating and when does it apply?
Dimensional rating charges based on cubic volume relative to weight when space use exceeds weight-based expectations. Carriers apply it when density is low to reflect trailer space consumed. High-volume, lightweight shippers usually face dim rating.
How can packaging and pallet configuration improve classification?
Improve density by reducing empty space, double-stacking items safely, and using pallet configurations that eliminate overhang. Secure products to allow stacking and protect fragile pieces. Accurate labeling and complete Bill of Lading information also prevent reclass and surcharges.
Where can I find and verify NMFC codes without paying for a reclass?
Use official NMFTA resources, carrier NMFC lookup tools, or reputable third-party platforms to find codes. Verify with the carrier or a freight broker before shipping—NMFC updates and carrier-specific rules may change a commodity's final cost.
Do some commodities have fixed classes regardless of size and weight?
Yes. Certain NMFC-listed commodities carry fixed classes due to inherent characteristics (e.g., hazardous goods or standardized manufactured parts). For these, size and weight don’t change the assigned class, though handling requirements still apply.
How do dimensional scanners and trailer loading practices affect quotes?
Dimensional scanners measure pallet and package volume; if they detect low density, carriers may reprice using dimensional rules. Efficient trailer loading and maximizing cubic utilization can lower per-shipment cost by avoiding dim rating.
Which product categories need special attention when classifying?
Automotive components, assembled versus flat-packed furniture, stone and tile, consumer electronics, and perishable food items all require precise NMFC codes and packing details. These categories often trigger special handling, insurance, or temperature-controlled services.
What documentation should I include on the Bill of Lading to avoid disputes?
Include accurate commodity descriptions, NMFC codes, total weight, dimensions per pallet, pallet count, and any special handling directives. Clear labels, SKU details, and declared value for insurance reduce the chance of reclass, claims, or delays.FAQ
What does the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) use to define classes 50–500?
The NMFTA defines classes using density, stowability, liability, and handling. Density is pounds per cubic foot calculated from weight and cubic dimensions. Items with high density and low handling requirements fall toward class 50; very light, hard-to-stow, or fragile goods trend toward class 500. Always confirm the commodity's NMFC code for final classification.
Why do carriers require an NMFC code for shipments under 20,000 pounds?
Carriers need an NMFC code to standardize billing, manage liability, and assign correct rates for less-than-truckload shipments under 20,000 pounds. The code identifies commodity description, handling instructions, and whether special packaging or services apply, reducing reclass and claim risk.
How do I measure dimensions to calculate density?
Measure length, width, and height in inches for the full packaged unit or pallet. Multiply those three measurements, divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet, then divide total pounds by cubic feet to get density in pounds per cubic foot. Round per carrier rules before mapping to a class band.
What density bands map to common class ranges?
Typical density bands: 50–55 classes for 50+ lb/ft³, 60–92 classes for mid-high densities, 100–150 for moderate densities, 200–300 for bulkier items, and 400–500 for ultra-light goods under about 1–2 lb/ft³. Use a current class chart or NMFC lookup tool to pick the precise code.
How can I map density to a preliminary freight classification?
After calculating density, consult a freight class chart to find the nearest band. Then identify the commodity's NMFC code to confirm if handling, stowability, or liability adjustments change the class. If in doubt, contact the carrier or a third-party logistics provider for verification.
When should I confirm the commodity-specific NMFC code before booking?
Confirm the NMFC code before you tender the shipment—especially for mixed goods, high-value items, or unusual packaging. Misclassification can cause reclass fees or denied claims. Use online NMFC lookup tools and compare with carrier requirements.
Which items typically fall into class 50–55?
Very dense, heavy items like bricks, cement bags, and hardwood flooring usually fall in class 50–55. These commodities pack high weight into small cubic volume, decreasing shipping cost per pound under standard tariffs.
What examples fit mid-density classes (60–125)?
Auto parts, tires, and many appliances generally land in mid-density ranges. Their balance of weight and volume plus average handling needs places them in classes that carriers price broadly for machine parts and packaged equipment.
How are bulky items like furniture and mattresses classified?
Bulky goods—furniture, cabinets, mattresses, TVs—often map to classes 150–300 because they consume trailer space and may require special handling or lift-gate service. Proper palletization and packaging can sometimes lower the class by increasing density or stackability.
What causes an item to be classed at 400–500?
Ultra-light, bulky, or fragile items—expanded polystyrene, antlers, or oversized foam—fit classes 400–500. Low density combined with poor stackability or high damage risk pushes commodities into premium class bands.
How do handling, liability, and stowability affect the final code?
Even with the same density, fragile goods, hazardous materials, or items that block trailer access can be up-classed due to higher handling and liability. Stowability issues—odd shapes or inability to stack—also increase class and rate.
What is dimensional rating and when does it apply?
Dimensional rating charges based on cubic volume relative to weight when space use exceeds weight-based expectations. Carriers apply it when density is low to reflect trailer space consumed. High-volume, lightweight shippers usually face dim rating.
How can packaging and pallet configuration improve classification?
Improve density by reducing empty space, double-stacking items safely, and using pallet configurations that eliminate overhang. Secure products to allow stacking and protect fragile pieces. Accurate labeling and complete Bill of Lading information also prevent reclass and surcharges.
Where can I find and verify NMFC codes without paying for a reclass?
Use official NMFTA resources, carrier NMFC lookup tools, or reputable third-party platforms to find codes. Verify with the carrier or a freight broker before shipping—NMFC updates and carrier-specific rules may change a commodity's final cost.
Do some commodities have fixed classes regardless of size and weight?
Yes. Certain NMFC-listed commodities carry fixed classes due to inherent characteristics (e.g., hazardous goods or standardized manufactured parts). For these, size and weight don’t change the assigned class, though handling requirements still apply.
How do dimensional scanners and trailer loading practices affect quotes?
Dimensional scanners measure pallet and package volume; if they detect low density, carriers may reprice using dimensional rules. Efficient trailer loading and maximizing cubic utilization can lower per-shipment cost by avoiding dim rating.
Which product categories need special attention when classifying?
Automotive components, assembled versus flat-packed furniture, stone and tile, consumer electronics, and perishable food items all require precise NMFC codes and packing details. These categories often trigger special handling, insurance, or temperature-controlled services.
What documentation should I include on the Bill of Lading to avoid disputes?
Include accurate commodity descriptions, NMFC codes, total weight, dimensions per pallet, pallet count, and any special handling directives. Clear labels, SKU details, and declared value for insurance reduce the chance of reclass, claims, or delays.