Freight Class & Density Calculator
Accurate LTL Shipping Class Estimation based on NMFC Standards
Results
Understanding Freight Class and Density
Freight class is a standardized classification system developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It categorizes commodities into 18 different classes (ranging from 50 to 500) to provide a uniform pricing structure for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments.
The Role of Density in LTL Shipping
Density is the primary factor used to determine freight class. It is measured in Pounds per Cubic Foot (PCF). Higher-density items (like steel bolts or heavy machinery) are typically assigned a lower class and lower rate, while lower-density items (like ping pong balls or assembled furniture) occupy more space relative to their weight and are assigned a higher class.
Calculation Example
If you are shipping a pallet with the following dimensions:
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 40″ W x 48″ H
- Weight: 500 lbs
- Calculation: (48 x 40 x 48) / 1,728 = 53.33 Cubic Feet
- Density: 500 / 53.33 = 9.37 PCF
- Result: Based on NMFC density scales, this falls into Class 100.
The Four Transportation Characteristics
While density is the most common metric, the NMFC also considers three other factors:
- Stowability: How easily the freight can be stacked or stored in the trailer.
- Handling: The degree of care or special equipment required to move the cargo.
- Liability: The value of the goods and the likelihood of theft, damage, or breakage.
Density to Freight Class Chart
| Density (PCF) | Freight Class |
|---|---|
| Over 50 | 50 |
| 35 – 50 | 55 |
| 30 – 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 – 30 | 65 |
| 15 – 22.5 | 70 |
| 13.5 – 15 | 77.5 |
| 12 – 13.5 | 85 |
| 10.5 – 12 | 92.5 |
| 9 – 10.5 | 100 |
| 8 – 9 | 110 |
| 7 – 8 | 125 |
| 6 – 7 | 150 |
| 5 – 6 | 175 |
| 4 – 5 | 200 |
| 3 – 4 | 250 |
| 2 – 3 | 300 |
| 1 – 2 | 400 |
| Less than 1 | 500 |