LTL Freight Class & Density Calculator
Calculate NMFC Freight Class based on shipment density
Shipment Breakdown:
*Disclaimer: Actual NMFC class may vary based on commodity type and handling requirements.
Understanding Freight Class and Density
Freight class is a standardized shipping category defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It is used to determine the relative ease of transport for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments. While there are four factors (density, stowability, handling, and liability), density is the primary driver for most goods.
How to Calculate Freight Density (PCF)
To calculate density, you must determine the total cubic feet of your shipment and divide the total weight by that number. The formula is:
- Multiply Length x Width x Height in inches to get total cubic inches.
- Divide total cubic inches by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic foot).
- Divide the weight of the shipment by the total cubic feet.
Example: A 48″ x 40″ x 48″ pallet weighing 500 lbs has a volume of 53.33 cubic feet, resulting in a density of 9.37 lbs per cubic foot (PCF).
Freight Class Density Table
| Density (lbs per cubic ft) | Freight Class |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 | 400 |
| 1 to 2 | 300 |
| 2 to 4 | 250 |
| 4 to 6 | 175 |
| 6 to 8 | 125 |
| 8 to 9 | 100 |
| 9 to 10.5 | 92.5 |
| 10.5 to 12 | 85 |
| 15 to 22.5 | 65 |
| Greater than 30 | 50 |
Why Accuracy Matters
Estimating your freight class incorrectly can lead to "Re-weigh" and "Re-classification" fees from the carrier. These adjustments often cost significantly more than the original quote. Always measure the furthest points of your shipment, including pallets and overhanging packaging.