Freight Classes 101: Getting it right first time!

Why have different Freight Classes?

Shipping freight can be a headache! And, if it wasn’t already confusing, they include an abundance of paperwork. And although this process is not for the lighthearted, understanding terms such as Freight Class can add value when shipping freight.

What exactly are Freight Classes?
Freight Classes are defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and published by the NMFC or National Motor Freight Classification. Can you believe there are eighteen (18) defined Freight Classes? When you think about it the reason for this is simple! Different Freight Classes facilitate a common standardized freight pricing for your shipment. This is especially helpful when working with different carriers, warehouses, and brokers.  

Classes are based on weight, size (length, width, and height), but also value, density and handling (in terms of “LND”, loss and damage). The great thing about Freight Classes, they consider all the bad stuff you don’t want to happen to your shipment. For example, breakage, spoilage, damage, and theft. This allows freight providers to calculate assumed risk, freight costs, and tariff rates based on a standardized and accepted method of calculation. For example, by using this calculation, a shipment of dense and heavy rocks could cost less than a shipment of eggs. Crazy, I know! However, since the rocks are heavier and less prone to breakage, the assumed risk is lower. In general terms (although not always), the lower the NMFC class number, the lower the freight charge.

What’s the correct freight classes to use?
The below table is an example of the NMFC classifications and is provided as a general guide to allow you to correctly identify your freight class.

Classification	Tariff	Commodity Example	Weight Range Per Cubic Foot
Class 50 – Clean Freight	Lowest Cost	Fits on standard shrink-wrapped 4X4 pallet, very durable	over 50 lbs.
Class 55		Bricks, cement, mortar, hardwood flooring	35-50 lbs.
Class 60		Car accessories & car parts	30-35 lbs.
Class 65		Car accessories & car parts, bottled beverages, books in boxes	22.5-30 lbs.
Class 70		Car accessories & car parts, food items, automobile engines	15 to 22.5 lbs.
Class 77.5		Tires, bathroom fixtures	13.5 to 15 lbs.
Class 85		Crated machinery, cast iron stoves	12-13.5 lbs.
Class 92.5		Computers, monitors, refrigerators	10.5-12 lbs.
Class 100		boat covers, car covers, canvas, wine cases, caskets	9-10.5 lbs.
Class 110		cabinets, framed artwork, table saw	8-9 lbs.
Class 125		Small Household appliances	7-8 lbs.
Class 150		Auto sheet metal parts, bookcases,	6-7 lbs.
Class 175		Clothing, couches stuffed furniture	5-6 lbs.
Class 200		Auto sheet metal parts, aircraft parts, aluminum table, packaged mattresses,	4-5 lbs.
Class 250		Bamboo furniture, mattress and box spring, plasma TV	3-4 lbs.
Class 300		wood cabinets, tables, chairs setup, model boats	2-3 lbs.
Class 400		Deer antlers	1-2 lbs.
Class 500 – Low Density or High Value	Highest Cost	Bags of gold dust, ping pong balls	Less than 1 lbs.

What if I use the incorrect freight class?

Using the incorrect freight class can be an expensive mistake. If an NMFC classification is incorrect, it can be reclassified by any freight carrier, resulting in additional freight and handling charges. To make matters worse, disputing and/or resolving a wrong classification is going to take time and may even lead to additional charges. 

Why use Integrated Transport Solutions?

At Integrated Transport Solutions, we leverage our industry experience, providing you with personalized service from beginning to end. Let us help you establish the correct NMFC Freight Class today! 

How to get the Right NMFC Code?

There are several things you can do to get the right NMFC Code:

1. Call Integrated Transport Solutions at 713-554-0411 or email us at [email protected] 
2. Contact the manufacturer of your item, they should know the correct and specific NMFC codes for their products.
3. Call the National Motor Freight Traffic Association and ask them.

Do you need to ship freight right now, need an expert to help? 

Click, Call or email us to get a freight quote right now.