Nmfc Number Calculator

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NMFC Freight Class & Density Calculator

Results

Estimated Density: lbs/cu ft

Estimated Freight Class:

*Note: Final NMFC classification depends on stowability, handling, and liability, not just density.

function calculateNMFC() { var length = parseFloat(document.getElementById('nmfcLength').value); var width = parseFloat(document.getElementById('nmfcWidth').value); var height = parseFloat(document.getElementById('nmfcHeight').value); var weight = parseFloat(document.getElementById('nmfcWeight').value); if (!length || !width || !height || !weight || length <= 0 || width <= 0 || height <= 0 || weight 50) freightClass = "50"; else if (density >= 35) freightClass = "55"; else if (density >= 30) freightClass = "60"; else if (density >= 22.5) freightClass = "65"; else if (density >= 15) freightClass = "70"; else if (density >= 13.5) freightClass = "77.5"; else if (density >= 12) freightClass = "85"; else if (density >= 10.5) freightClass = "92.5"; else if (density >= 9) freightClass = "100"; else if (density >= 8) freightClass = "110"; else if (density >= 7) freightClass = "125"; else if (density >= 6) freightClass = "150"; else if (density >= 5) freightClass = "175"; else if (density >= 4) freightClass = "200"; else if (density >= 3) freightClass = "250"; else if (density >= 2) freightClass = "300"; else if (density >= 1) freightClass = "400"; else freightClass = "500"; document.getElementById('resDensity').innerText = density.toFixed(2); document.getElementById('resClass').innerText = freightClass; document.getElementById('nmfcResult').style.display = 'block'; }

Understanding NMFC Numbers and Freight Classification

The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a standard used by the shipping industry to categorize commodities based on their "transportability." This system, managed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), ensures that shippers and carriers have a uniform basis for negotiating freight rates.

How is an NMFC Class Calculated?

While many factors contribute to a freight class, density is often the primary driver for "density-based" items. Our NMFC number calculator uses the industry-standard formula to determine the pounds per cubic foot (PCF):

  • Step 1: Multiply Length x Width x Height in inches to get total cubic inches.
  • Step 2: Divide the cubic inches by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.
  • Step 3: Divide the weight of the shipment (in lbs) by the total cubic feet.

The Four Transportation Characteristics

An NMFC number isn't just about size; it evaluates four specific metrics:

  1. Density: The weight per cubic foot. Higher density usually results in a lower class and lower cost.
  2. Stowability: How easily the freight can be stacked or stored in a trailer. Hazardous or oddly shaped items may be classed higher.
  3. Handling: The degree of care needed. Fragile or difficult-to-move items increase the classification.
  4. Liability: The value of the goods and their susceptibility to theft, damage, or breakage.

Standard NMFC Density Chart

Density (lbs per cubic foot) Estimated Class
Over 5050
15 to 22.570
10.5 to 1292.5
8 to 9110
Less than 1500

Practical Example

Imagine you are shipping a pallet of heavy machinery parts. The pallet is 48″L x 40″W x 30″H and weighs 800 lbs.

  1. Cubic Inches: 48 x 40 x 30 = 57,600
  2. Cubic Feet: 57,600 / 1728 = 33.33 cu ft
  3. Density: 800 / 33.33 = 24.00 PCF
  4. Result: At 24 PCF, this item would typically fall into Class 65.

Important Tip: Always round your measurements up to the nearest inch and weight up to the nearest pound to avoid "re-weigh" fees from carriers. Using an accurate NMFC number calculator helps prevent unexpected freight bill audits.

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