NMFC Freight Class Calculator
Enter your pallet dimensions and weight to instantly estimate the LTL freight class. Supports multi-pallet shipments, inch/cm and lbs/kg conversions, and all 18 NMFC density-based classes.
Freight class estimator
Enter pallet dimensions & weight to estimate LTL freight class.
53.33 cu ft · 500.0 lbs · 9.38 PCF
Density → class reference table
| Density (PCF) | Class |
|---|---|
| ≥ 50 | 50 |
| 35 – < 50 | 55 |
| 30 – < 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 – < 30 | 65 |
| 15 – < 22.5 | 70 |
| 13.5 – < 15 | 77.5 |
| 12 – < 13.5 | 85 |
| 10.5 – < 12 | 92.5 |
| 9 – < 10.5 | 100 |
| 8 – < 9 | 110 |
| 7 – < 8 | 125 |
| 6 – < 7 | 150 |
| 5 – < 6 | 175 |
| 4 – < 5 | 200 |
| 3 – < 4 | 250 |
| 2 – < 3 | 300 |
| 1 – < 2 | 400 |
| 0 – < 1 | 500 |
How freight class is determined
The NMFC system assigns every commodity a class from 50 (densest/cheapest to ship) to 500 (lightest/most expensive). While the official classification considers density, stowability, handling, and liability, density is the dominant factor and the basis for this estimator.
The density calculation is straightforward:
- Measure each handling unit’s length × width × height (in inches).
- Divide by 1,728 to convert cubic inches → cubic feet.
- Multiply by the quantity of identical units.
- Sum total weight (lbs) and total cubic feet across all units.
- Divide total weight by total volume = density (PCF).
- Look up the density in the NMFC class table.
Who uses this calculator
Logistics managers
Quickly estimate freight class before requesting carrier quotes to ensure accurate budgeting.
Small-business shippers
Understand how pallet dimensions affect shipping cost and optimize packaging to lower class.
Freight brokers
Provide instant density-based class estimates to customers during quoting.
3PL warehouses
Verify class at inbound receiving to catch mis-classifications before they become carrier disputes.
E-commerce sellers
Estimate LTL costs for large/heavy items that don’t qualify for parcel shipping.
Supply-chain students
Learn how the NMFC density-to-class relationship works with real-time calculations.
⚠ Important disclaimers
Density-based estimate only. This tool estimates freight class based on the density of your shipment. It does not assign official NMFC commodity codes. Actual freight class may differ based on commodity type, packaging, stowability, handling difficulty, and liability.
Not an official NMFC classifier. Official NMFC commodity data is proprietary and maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). For official classifications, consult the NMFTA’s ClassIT® database or contact your LTL carrier directly.
Frequently asked questions
What is an NMFC freight class?
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system assigns a class between 50 and 500 to every type of commodity shipped via less-than-truckload (LTL). Lower classes indicate denser, easier-to-handle freight and cost less to ship. The system is maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).
How is freight class determined?
Official NMFC class is based on four factors: density (weight per cubic foot), stowability, handling difficulty, and liability risk. Density is the most influential factor and the basis for this estimator. Carriers may adjust class based on commodity type and packaging.
How do I calculate freight density?
Measure the length, width, and height of each handling unit in inches. Multiply L × W × H and divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. Then divide total weight (lbs) by total cubic feet. The result is your density in pounds per cubic foot (PCF).
What density range corresponds to Class 70?
Class 70 applies to shipments with a density of 15.0 PCF up to (but not including) 22.5 PCF. This is one of the most common classes for mid-density manufactured goods.
Can I use this calculator for multiple pallets?
Yes. Click "Add handling unit" to add additional pallets or crates. The calculator sums total weight and total cubic footage, then computes a single overall density to determine the estimated class for the entire shipment.
Why might my actual freight class differ from this estimate?
This tool estimates class based on density alone. Carriers may assign a different class based on the specific NMFC commodity code, packaging requirements, or the four transportability factors (density, stowability, handling, and liability). Always confirm with your carrier or freight broker.
What is the difference between FAK and density-based pricing?
FAK (Freight All Kinds) is a negotiated rate where a carrier agrees to treat all your freight as a single class regardless of actual NMFC classification. Density-based pricing uses the measured density to assign class. Many LTL carriers now use density-based pricing by default.
Does this tool provide official NMFC commodity codes?
No. This is a density-based estimator only. Official NMFC commodity codes are proprietary data maintained by the NMFTA and require a paid subscription to the ClassIT® database. Contact your carrier or the NMFTA for official classifications.