FREIGHT CLASSES
FREIGHT CLASSES
Freight classes are a standardized system used to categorize and rate different types of freight for all Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments. This system is also known as The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC).
The NMFC assigns a freight class to goods based on specific criteria, such as density, stowability, handling, and liability. This is particularly for ground transportation.
There are 18 different freight classes, ranging from Class 50 to Class 500. The lower classes generally representing goods that are easier to handle and store. The freight class helps determine the shipping rate, with the lower classes generally associated with lower costs.
Herein are the 18 freight classes.
Class 50
Consists of items that are dense, easily transportable, least expensive and most durable freight. The shipment should also able to be shrink-wrapped and stowed on a standard 4×4 pallet
Example: nuts, bolts, steel rods, or dense bagged materials such as flour or concrete.
Weight Range: over 50 pounds per cubic foot | 22.7 kilograms
Class 55
These items typically have heavier commodities, than class 50, that are also durable, low-cost, easier to handle with a lower liability.
Example: bricks, cement, mortar, hardwood flooring, cloths or rags, magazines, and copy paper.
Weight Range: 35 – 50 pounds per cubic foot | 15.9 – 22.7 kilograms
Class 60
This is one of the lower freight classes, indicating that the commodities in this class are relatively lightweight and easy to handle.
Example: car accessories and parts, cardboard boxes, lighting, ceramic tiles, stone blocks, glass, moldings
Weight Range: 30 – 35 pounds per cubic foot | 15.9 – 22.7 kilograms
Class 65
Still being a part of the lower classes, these goods are not fragile and are easy to handle.
Example: car accessories and parts, bottled beverages, books, conveyors, electric cords
Weight Range: 22.5 – 30 pounds per cubic foot | 10.21 – 15.9 kilograms
Class 70
This class is used for Lower value and medium to high density items that require careful handling.
Example: food items, small appliances, car accessories, unassembled furniture, newspapers, wooden pencils, machinery, caskets.
Weight Range: 15 – 22.5 pounds per cubic foot | 6.8 – 10.21 kilograms
Class 77.5
This category is used for moderately heavy and dense freight that requires careful handling.
Example: canned goods, beverages, machinery, automotive parts, tires, bathroom fixtures, garments, snowplows and other similar products that are relatively heavy for their size.
Weight Range: 13.5 – 15 pounds per cubic foot | 6.1 – 6.8 kilograms
Class 85
These are sturdier items with lower values, relatively light for their size.
Example crated machinery, cast iron stoves, large automotive parts, transmissions, clutches, doors.
Weight Range: 12 – 13.5 pounds per cubic foot | 5.4 – 6.1 kilograms
Class 92.5
This classification is used for relatively light and less dense freight for their size but may require special care due to their value or fragility.
Example: computers, monitors refrigerators and freezers, gas-powered generators, cabinets, kiosk or ATMs
Weight Range: 10.5 – 12 pounds per cubic foot | 4.8 – 5.4 kilograms
Class 100
These are sensitive and high-value products typically very light and high-value items that require careful handling
Example: antiques, vacuum, canvas, wine cases, caskets, boat and car covers.
Weight Range: 9 – 10.5 pounds per cubic foot | 4.1 – 4.8 kilograms
Class 110
These are relatively light but valuable products that require careful handling due to their fragility.
Example: cameras, clothing, lamps, lampshades, cabinets, table saw, metalworking, framed paintings & artwork.
Weight Range: 8 – 9 pounds per cubic foot | 3.6 – 4.1 kilograms
Class 125
This category refers to relatively light but durable items that require careful handling. The highest value, lowest density products,
Example: such as antiques or artwork, small household appliances, pictures/posters in boxes, exhibit booths, vending machines
Weight Range: 7 – 8 pounds per cubic foot | 3.2 – 3.6 kilograms
Class 150
These items are dense, heavy, or oversized freight that is not fragile.
Example: jet skis, motorcycles, assembled wooden furniture, work stations
Weight Range: 6 – 7 pounds per cubic foot | 2.7 – 3.2 kilograms
Class 175
These are dense and heavy items, but not overly large.
Examples: clothing, couches, stuffed furniture, metal cabinets
Weight Range: 5 – 6 pounds per cubic foot | 2.3 – 2.7 kilograms
Class 200
This class is used for goods that are relatively heavy but are not fragile.
Examples: sheet metal, packaged furniture, aluminum tables, aircraft parts
Weight Range: 4 – 5 pounds per cubic foot | 1.8 – 2.3 kilograms
Class 250
These are dense and heavy items that are not overly large.
Example: mattresses, box springs, plasma TVs, bamboo furniture
Weight Range: 3 – 4 pounds per cubic foot | 1.4 – 1.8 kilograms
Class 300
This category refers to relatively light weight and high value items.
Examples: model boats, assembled chairs, tables, wood cabinets
Weight Range: 2 – 3 pounds per cubic foot | 1 – 1.4 kilograms
Class 400
Light weight goods with a high value.
Example: deer antlers and cutlery
Weight Range: 1 – 2 pounds per cubic foot | less than 1 – 1 kilograms
Class 500
The highest and most expensive class. Items that are have a very low density and of high value.
Examples: Gold dust and ping pong balls
Weight Range: Less than 1 pounds per cubic foot | less than 1 kilogram
Final Note
The higher freight classifications are reserved for products that are more difficult for carriers to transport. Higher value, greater liability, and difficult stowability increase your freight class and the cost of shipping your goods. Understanding these freight classes is important for accurate pricing and categorizing of freight. This protects you from pricey delays and fees for reclassification. It also provides a more accurate quote ensuring that shipments are handled and transported appropriately based on their characteristics.
Our dedicated Freight Controllers are ready to discuss your freight needs and plan the most effective strategy for your company and shipment. For more information or for an obligation-free quote contact 031 028 0043 or email info@tfcf.co.za.