Freight Class Calculator

What is freight class?

Freight class is a standardized code (from 50 to 500) set by the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system. It groups commodities so less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers can price them consistently. A lower class (50) is dense, easy-to-haul freight and costs less per pound; a higher class (500) is light, bulky, or fragile freight and costs more.

How class is determined

The biggest driver is density — pounds per cubic foot. Calculate volume (length × width × height in inches, divided by 1,728 to get cubic feet), then divide weight by that volume. The denser the shipment, the lower the class. The NMFC also weighs three other factors — stowability, handling, and liability — so the density-based number here is a strong estimate, not a guaranteed classification.

Why it matters

Quoting the wrong class is the most common cause of LTL re-bills. Estimating it up front means more accurate carrier bids and fewer post-delivery adjustments.