A shared way to describe freight
In less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, a shipment travels through a network alongside other freight. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a system for classifying freight according to its transportation characteristics.
NMFTA describes four characteristics: density, handling, stowability, and liability. The class number is a classification result. It is not a measurement of weight, a shipping price, or an item identification number.
Weight and outside volume make the density
- Length
- 48 in
- Width
- 40 in
- Height
- 48 in
One finished handling unit. 53.333 ft³, 500 lb gross, 9.375 lb/ft³; density-scale class 100.
The four characteristics, in practical terms
- Density: how much the packaged freight weighs for the space it occupies. Calculate it as pounds divided by cubic feet.
- Handling: how the freight can be moved and handled in transportation.
- Stowability: how the freight fits with other freight in the transportation space.
- Liability: characteristics related to the risk associated with transporting the freight.
These are classification considerations, not a checklist that lets a shipper self-assign an exception. Look up the actual item provisions or ask the carrier how they apply to the shipment.
Where the density chart fits
For freight governed by the 13-tier density scale effective July 19, 2025, a density of 9.375 lb/ft³ sits in the 8-to-under-10 band: class 100. The freight class calculator shows that estimate from dimensions and weight.
The estimate becomes less useful if the inputs describe only the product and omit its pallet, or if the applicable item follows a different provision. Good measurements and the correct item rule are both necessary.
Class and item number are different
A class describes the classification assigned to freight. An NMFC item identifies the applicable commodity provision. A density calculator cannot infer the right item from dimensions and weight alone.
Why the class does not tell you the price
This site does not estimate a freight rate. To obtain a quote, give the carrier the actual shipment details and confirm which classification it will use. A calculated class without the matching goods, packaging, origin, destination, and service requirements is not a complete quote request.
Use the estimate as a conversation starter
- Measure and weigh the finished shipment.
- Calculate the density and record the inputs.
- Ask which item provisions apply to the goods and packaging.
- Confirm the applicable class with the carrier before preparing shipment documents.
Next, follow the measurement guide or compare the current and legacy charts.
Sources & scope
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Density scale effective July 19, 2025.