Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping relies on a standardized method to determine rates and manage cargo. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system provides this standard, ensuring carriers can efficiently price and transport diverse commodities. This system is the industry’s universal language for classifying freight based on its specific characteristics. Understanding this classification is important for any shipper to secure accurate pricing and avoid unexpected costs, especially when dealing with the lowest classification, Class 50.
Clarifying the Terminology: NMFC Code Versus Freight Class
There is a frequent misunderstanding that a single NMFC code exists for Freight Class 50. Freight Class 50 is the category, or the result of the classification process, not the specific identifier for a product. The NMFC code is a unique, six-digit number assigned to a specific commodity, much like a universal product code. This code identifies the exact item being shipped, such as “steel pipes” or “bagged cement.”
Different commodities with entirely different NMFC codes can share the same Freight Class 50 because they possess similar shipping characteristics. For instance, the NMFC code for bricks (32100.2) is distinct from the code for certain types of steel pipes, yet both frequently fall into Class 50. The NMFC code is the official identifier that points to the classification rules, which then lead to the assignment of a freight class ranging from 50 to 500. Therefore, a shipper must find the NMFC code specific to their product, not a code for the class itself.
Understanding the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) System
The National Motor Freight Classification system is a standard maintained and regulated by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). This organization creates a uniform set of rules to compare the “transportability” of all commodities moved via LTL freight. The system groups commodities into one of 18 possible classes, ranging from Class 50 to Class 500.
The determination of a commodity’s class is based on an evaluation of four distinct transportation characteristics:
- Density: Measures the shipment’s weight relative to the space it occupies, calculated in pounds per cubic foot.
- Handling: Addresses the degree of difficulty involved in managing the freight, considering factors like dimensions, fragility, and packaging.
- Stowability: Assesses how easily the freight can be arranged with other cargo in a trailer, accounting for irregular shapes or hazardous content.
- Liability: Considers the risk of damage, theft, or the commodity’s value per pound, which impacts the carrier’s insurance risk.
Commodities that are denser and easier to handle are assigned a lower freight class, while those that are bulky, fragile, or difficult to stow receive a higher class.
Characteristics That Define Freight Class 50
Freight Class 50 represents the lowest class in the NMFC system, reserved for commodities that are the most economical to transport. This classification is assigned to goods that are extremely dense, generally requiring a density of 50 pounds per cubic foot or greater.
Products in Class 50 are usually durable, easily handled, and present a low risk of damage or theft. These goods often have consistent, uniform shapes and can be stacked without difficulty, maximizing the efficient use of trailer space. Common examples include palletized paper products, bulk ingredients, steel bolts and nuts, and construction materials like bricks and bagged cement. The combination of high density and low liability makes these items the least costly to ship.
How to Determine Your Product’s Specific NMFC Code
Identifying the correct NMFC code requires a systematic approach, beginning with a precise understanding of the commodity’s physical properties. For commodities where density is the primary factor, a shipper must accurately measure the shipment’s weight, length, width, and height to calculate its pounds per cubic foot. This density measurement is then used to locate the appropriate class range within the NMFC system’s guidelines.
The official source for all NMFC codes is the publication maintained by the NMFTA, often accessed through their proprietary online tool, ClassIT+. Access to this database is frequently restricted or involves a fee, making direct lookup challenging for many general shippers. Consequently, most businesses rely on third-party logistics providers (3PLs) or carrier representatives who have direct access and expertise in using these tools.
These logistics partners ensure the shipper selects the correct six-digit code, especially for complex items or those with multiple potential classifications based on packaging. Providing accurate dimensions and weight is essential, as carriers utilize scanning technology to verify these details. Using a professional service helps ensure the correct NMFC code is applied to the Bill of Lading, the foundational document for the shipment.
Consequences of Using Incorrect Classification
Misrepresenting a shipment’s characteristics, whether intentionally or by accident, leads directly to freight re-classification, or “re-class.” A carrier inspects the freight during transit, using their own measurements to verify the classification listed on the Bill of Lading. If the carrier determines the actual density, handling requirements, or liability risk is higher than declared, they will adjust the freight class.
Re-classification results in an unexpected increase in the final shipping invoice, as a higher class translates to a higher rate. In addition to the difference in freight cost, the carrier may levy administrative fees for the audit and correction process. This situation can also cause supply chain disruptions, as the shipment may be temporarily held for verification, delaying delivery and impacting customer service. Shippers must ensure their documentation is precise and reflects the actual transport characteristics of their cargo.