Freight Class & NMFC Codes: A Beginner’s Guide for U.S. Shippers

Understanding freight class and NMFC codes is critical when shipping Less Than Truckload (LTL) in the United States. These two elements affect your cost, carrier liability, and delivery accuracy.
📦 What Is Freight Class?
Freight class is a standardized classification system defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It helps carriers determine shipping rates for LTL freight based on key shipment characteristics.
There are 18 freight classes, ranging from Class 50 (lowest cost) to Class 500 (highest cost).
📊 How Freight Class Is Determined
Four main factors influence freight class:
- Density (weight per cubic foot)
- Stowability (how easy it is to store/stack)
- Handling (fragile or awkward items)
- Liability (likelihood of damage or theft)
🔢 What Are NMFC Codes?
NMFC stands for National Motor Freight Classification. It’s a coding system that assigns a unique number to every type of commodity.
For example:
- NMFC 123456 = Plastic Pallets
- NMFC 156600 = Office Furniture
You must include the correct NMFC code on your Bill of Lading (BOL) to avoid reclassifications and extra charges.
💡 Freight Class vs. NMFC Code
Element | Purpose |
---|---|
Freight Class | Determines rate based on density/handling |
NMFC Code | Identifies the commodity type |
Both are required for LTL freight.
❗ Why It Matters
- Incorrect classification can lead to adjusted invoices
- It affects insurance coverage
- Impacts pickup scheduling and carrier acceptance
🧠 Pro Tips
- Use a freight class calculator to avoid errors
- Measure all dimensions accurately (in inches)
- Work with a freight expert to verify NMFC codes
🚀 Need Help Classifying Your Freight?
Cargo1 can assist with NMFC codes, BOL creation, and class calculations.