GlossaryFreight
Freight class (NMFC)
A standardized classification from 50 to 500 used to price LTL freight, based mainly on density, handling and liability.
Freight class is the classification LTL carriers use to price shipments in the United States. It is defined in the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), with classes ranging from 50 to 500.
Lower classes cover dense, durable, easy-to-handle freight and cost less per pound. Higher classes cover light, bulky, fragile or high-value freight. Classification considers density, stowability, handling and liability, and recent NMFC updates rely more heavily on density.
Declaring the wrong class can lead to reclassification and billing adjustments after the carrier inspects the freight.
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