Freight Class Calculator

This freight class calculator is a professional logistics tool for determining NMFC classes, shipping density, and LTL rates with 100% precision.

Using a professional freight class calculator is the most critical step in preparing an accurate Bill of Lading (BOL) and protecting your business from expensive shipping penalties. In the Less Than Truckload (LTL) industry, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) standardizes shipping prices through a system of 18 distinct classes. By utilizing our dashboard, you can instantly determine your shipment’s density and select the correct class, ensuring you get the most competitive quote from your carrier while avoiding re-billing adjustments.

What is Freight Class in LTL Shipping?

Freight class is a standardized numerical category that identifies the “transportability” of a commodity. Classes range from 50 (the densest and cheapest to ship) to 500 (the lightest and most expensive). A freight class calculator evaluates the physical properties of your cargo to help you categorize it correctly. Without this data, carriers will often default to a higher class during inspection, resulting in unexpected surcharges. Our tool ensures your documentation matches the physical reality of your shipment.

How to use the Freight Class Calculator for Results

Our freight class calculator is designed for high-speed professional accuracy. To generate a precise NMFC estimate, follow these steps inside the interface:

• Step 1: Unit Type. Select your pallet size from our common presets or enter custom dimensions.
• Step 2: Weight. Enter the gross weight of the shipment. You must include the wood pallet and packaging materials.
• Step 3: Quantity. Specify how many identical handling units are in the total shipment.
• Step 4: Review. The freight class calculator will instantly generate your PCF and highlight the estimated class in the chart below.

The Critical Role of Density (PCF)

Density is calculated by dividing the total weight of a shipment by its total volume in cubic feet. This is the single most important metric in any freight class calculator. As density increases, the risk of damage generally decreases and the efficiency of the truck space increases, leading to a lower class. For example, a pallet of steel nuts and bolts will have a much higher density (and lower class) than a pallet of assembled couches or light electronics.

The 4 Factors of NMFC Classification

While our freight class calculator focuses on density, the NMFTA considers three other traits before assigning a final NMFC code:

1. Density: Weight per cubic foot. (Handled by the calculator).
2. Stowability: Can the item be stacked? Are there hazardous materials involved?
3. Handling: Does the item require special equipment or manual care?
4. Liability: What is the value? Is the item prone to theft or fragile breakage?

Understanding NMFC Guide Brackets

This table illustrates how our freight class calculator maps your density results to the most common NMFC classes used in North American shipping:

Freight Class Calculator FAQ

Does the wood pallet weight count?

Absolutely. When using a freight class calculator, you must include the “Gross Weight.” If you only weigh the product and forget the 40-50 lbs wood pallet, the carrier’s scale will trigger a re-weight fee.

What happens if I select the wrong class?

The carrier will issue a “Weight and Inspection” (W&I) certificate. This usually includes a $50-$150 re-billing fee plus the difference in freight cost. Consistently using a freight class calculator is the best way to protect your profit margins.

Is class the same as NMFC code?

No. An NMFC code is a specific ID for a specific product (e.g., 12345). The freight class is a category (e.g., Class 70). You need both for a perfect BOL, but the freight class calculator helps you find the category first.