Freight Class Calculator
A density-based estimate of NMFC freight class from your shipment's dimensions and weight.
Shipment dimensions
Estimated freight class
The density table used
| Density (PCF) | Estimated class |
|---|---|
| 50 and over | 50 |
| 35 to under 50 | 55 |
| 30 to under 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 to under 30 | 65 |
| 15 to under 22.5 | 70 |
| 12 to under 15 | 77.5 |
| 10 to under 12 | 85 |
| 8 to under 10 | 92.5 |
| 6 to under 8 | 100 |
| 4 to under 6 | 125 |
| 2 to under 4 | 150 |
| 1 to under 2 | 175 |
| under 1 | 250+ |
This is the widely used general density-to-class guideline. Some commodities carry their own NMFC item number regardless of density (electronics, hazardous materials, automotive parts and more), which overrides a pure density estimate. When in doubt, ask your carrier or dispatcher.
Frequently asked questions
How is freight class determined?
Officially, freight class comes from the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), which assigns a specific item number to each commodity based on density, stowability, handling and liability. Density-based calculators like this one give a reasonable estimate for commodities without unusual handling or liability factors.
What is freight density and how is it calculated?
Density is weight divided by volume, in pounds per cubic foot (PCF). Cubic feet = (length × width × height in inches) ÷ 1728. Density = total weight ÷ total cubic feet.
Why did my carrier reclassify my shipment?
Carriers may reclassify a shipment if the class booked does not match the commodity's actual NMFC item, or if the measured density does not match what was declared. Confirming the correct class before booking avoids reclassification fees.
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