Freight Classes: Definition and Examples

What are freight classes?

Freight classes are standardized categories used in U.S. class-rated less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation. The NMFC system has 18 classes, ranging from class 50 to class 500. They describe how freight travels and help carriers establish rates alongside shipment weight, distance and their pricing agreements.

How is a freight class determined?

Classification considers density, handling, stowability and liability. Dense freight that is easy to handle generally receives a lower class, while bulky or difficult freight may receive a higher one. However, the applicable NMFC item and subprovision must be checked; a generic density calculator is not a substitute for that check.

The 18 classes are 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 77.5, 85, 92.5, 100, 110, 125, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 400 and 500. This overall list should not be confused with the 13 density bands used for many density-based NMFC items.

Why it matters for a shipping quote

A freight class is neither a dollar amount nor a delivery-speed category. Two shipments with the same class may have different prices because their routes, weights, carrier agreements or additional services differ. A class 100 shipment does not automatically cost twice as much as a class 50 shipment.

Measure the fully packaged handling unit.
Identify the commodity and its current NMFC provisions.
Confirm stackability and special handling needs.
Check whether the carrier uses class-based or another agreed pricing method.

Planning a shipment with DAGO Express

Share complete shipment information when requesting a quote. For a dedicated vehicle, route, vehicle requirements and timing may be more relevant than an LTL freight class. Use the pricing basis stated in the transport offer.