Freight class chart
Find the density band, then check the class. Compare the 13-tier scale with the legacy 18-class guideline without mixing their boundaries.
Density in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³)
| Density (lb/ft³) | Class |
|---|---|
| Under 1 | 400 |
| 1 to under 2 | 300 |
| 2 to under 4 | 250 |
| 4 to under 6 | 175 |
| 6 to under 8 | 125 |
| 8 to under 10 | 100 |
| 10 to under 12 | 92.5 |
| 12 to under 15 | 85 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 50 and above | 50 |
| Density (lb/ft³) | Class |
|---|---|
| Under 1 | 500 |
| 1 to under 2 | 400 |
| 2 to under 3 | 300 |
| 3 to under 4 | 250 |
| 4 to under 5 | 200 |
| 5 to under 6 | 175 |
| 6 to under 7 | 150 |
| 7 to under 8 | 125 |
| 8 to under 9 | 110 |
| 9 to under 10.5 | 100 |
| 10.5 to under 12 | 92.5 |
| 12 to under 13.5 | 85 |
| 13.5 to under 15 | 77.5 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 50 and above | 50 |
Choose a class in the current chart for its worked examples and measurement risks, or browse all freight tools and guides.
Where the legacy comparison comes from
The legacy bands were checked against the Direct Drive Logistics classification chart and FML Freight class guide on October 25, 2026. Their range shorthand is shown here as lower-inclusive, upper-exclusive intervals to make the comparison consistent. This normalization does not establish a carrier’s contractual treatment of an exact boundary.
Read a boundary without rounding it up
At 9.375 lb/ft³ the current scale gives class 100. Exactly 10 enters class 92.5.
Read the boundaries literally
“8 to under 10” includes exactly 8.000 lb/ft³ and excludes exactly 10.000 lb/ft³. At 10, move to the next row. Do not round 7.999 up to 8 before looking up the class: the unrounded density belongs in the lower band.
The calculator uses full precision for the lookup. A displayed density can look close to a boundary while the underlying value remains just below it.
The same density can produce a different class
| Density | 13-tier | Legacy |
|---|---|---|
| 0.8 lb/ft³ | 400 | 500 |
| 4.5 lb/ft³ | 175 | 200 |
| 8 lb/ft³ | 100 | 110 |
| 14 lb/ft³ | 85 | 77.5 |
| 40 lb/ft³ | 55 | 55 |
The legacy chart is a general comparison, not a replacement rule for current shipments. It is also not the former 11-tier NMFC density scale. Avoid describing every difference between these two tables as a direct 2025 docket change.
What this chart cannot tell you
As the freight class explanation describes, density alone does not identify your NMFC item, any packaging condition, or an exception based on handling, stowability, or liability. We do not publish commodity listings or item numbers. Check item-specific provisions through your carrier or NMFTA.
Calculate a shipment or read what changed in 2025 before using a saved class from an older shipment.
Questions before you ship
Does freight class 110 still appear on this density scale?
Class 110 is not a tier in the 13-tier density scale shown here. It appears in the separate legacy 18-class guideline. That difference does not by itself establish how a specific commodity or contract must be classified.
Is the legacy 18-class guideline the old 11-tier scale?
No. They are different tables. This page compares the current 13-tier density scale with the familiar legacy 18-class general guideline, not with the prior 11-tier NMFC density scale.
Which chart should I use for my shipment?
Use the scale that applies to your specific freight item and carrier agreement. The calculator defaults to the 13-tier scale effective July 19, 2025. Ask your carrier or check ClassIT+ when the item, packaging, or special provisions are uncertain.
Sources & scope
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Density scale effective July 19, 2025.
Last updated