When shipping freight, one of the most critical factors influencing your shipping costs is determining the correct freight class. Freight classes, defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and listed in the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), are used by carriers, brokers, and warehouses to standardise freight pricing. Understanding these classes can save you money and ensure your freight is accurately classified for the right pricing.
What are Freight Classes?
Freight classes represent a standardised system for categorising different types of cargo based on several factors that influence shipping costs. The 18 freight classes are based on a combination of:
- Weight
- Length and height
- Density (weight per cubic foot)
- Ease of handling
- Value
- Liability (risk of theft, damage, spoilage, etc.)
Generally, the lower the freight class number, the less you pay for shipping. By using this classification system, businesses can ensure they get consistent and fair pricing from various freight carriers.
How Freight Classes Affect Your Shipping Costs
Freight class helps carriers determine how much space your goods will occupy in their vehicles and how much handling or risk is involved. As such, the pricing structure is designed to ensure that shipments are accurately classified based on these factors, resulting in fair rates for both shippers and carriers.
- Higher-class freight (e.g., Class 500) typically represents lightweight, high-value, or easily damaged items, which require careful handling and increased shipping costs.
- Lower-class freight (e.g., Class 50) represents dense, durable, or easy-to-handle goods that can be shipped more affordably.
How to Determine Your Freight Class
Choosing the correct freight class is essential for ensuring that your shipment is charged fairly and accurately. Incorrectly classifying your items can lead to costly reclassification fees. Here are some steps to get it right:
- Consult Your Freight Carrier: Reach out to your freight representative for advice on classification.
- Check with the Manufacturer: Manufacturers typically have their products classified and can provide their NMFC codes.
- Use the NMFTA’s Resources: You can always consult the National Motor Freight Traffic Association’s website or customer support for the correct NMFC codes for your products.
Freight Classes Breakdown: A Quick Overview
To help you get started, here’s a brief look at the 18 freight classes and some examples of goods in each:
| Class | Description | Weight Range (Per Cubic Foot) | Examples |
| Class 50 | Clean Freight (Lowest Cost) | Over 50 lbs | Durable items, standard pallets |
| Class 55 | Bricks, Cement, Mortar | 35-50 lbs | Bricks, cement, flooring |
| Class 60 | Car Accessories & Parts | 30-35 lbs | Car parts, accessories |
| Class 70 | Food Items, Engines | 15-22.5 lbs | Food products, automobile engines |
| Class 85 | Machinery, Stoves | 12-13.5 lbs | Crated machinery, stoves |
| Class 100 | Boat Covers, Wine Cases | 9-10.5 lbs | Boat covers, wine cases |
| Class 150 | Auto Parts, Bookshelves | 6-7 lbs | Sheet metal parts, bookcases |
| Class 200 | Aircraft Parts, Packaged Mattresses | 4-5 lbs | Aircraft parts, aluminum tables |
| Class 250 | Furniture, Plasma TVs | 3-4 lbs | Bamboo furniture, plasma TVs |
| Class 500 | Low Density, High Value (Highest Cost) | Less than 1 lb | Gold dust, ping pong balls |
Why Getting the Freight Class Right Matters
The freight classification code (NMFC) determines how much you’ll pay for your shipment. Incorrect classifications can lead to:
- Increased shipping charges if your items are classified into a higher class.
- Difficult disputes if your shipment is reclassified by the carrier.
- Time-consuming processes for correcting errors and disputing classifications.
Top Tips to Ensure the Right NMFC Code
To avoid costly mistakes, here are some best practices for determining the right NMFC code for your shipment:
- Accurate Measurements: Ensure that you have accurate dimensions for your cargo to determine density.
- Check Packaging Details: The way your items are packaged (e.g., shrink-wrapped, crated) can affect their class.
- Consult the Experts: Don’t hesitate to call your freight representative or contact the NMFTA for guidance.
Final Thoughts on Freight Classes
The NMFC codes and freight class system are crucial tools in the freight shipping industry. By understanding how freight classes work and ensuring the correct classification of your goods, you can avoid costly errors, streamline your logistics processes, and achieve fair pricing on your shipments.
If you’re unsure about which class your freight belongs to, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional like Twenty47 Logistics. Our team specialises in helping businesses navigate the complexities of freight shipping, ensuring your goods are classified correctly and your shipping operations run smoothly. With Twenty47 Logistics, you can count on expert guidance and reliable support for all your freight needs.
