Freight Class & Density Calculator
Knowing your freight class is essential for accurate LTL shipping quotes. Freight class — ranging from 50 to 500 — is primarily determined by your shipment’s density: its weight relative to its size. A higher density means a lower class and lower shipping costs. Use our free calculator to enter your shipment dimensions and weight, and instantly see your estimated NMFC freight class, density in pounds per cubic foot, and what it means for your shipping costs.
Freight Class & Density Calculator
Calculate your shipment's density and NMFC freight class for LTL shipping. Enter your pallet or shipment dimensions and weight below.
Shipment Dimensions
Weight & Handling Units
Freight class is estimated by density. Some commodities have fixed NMFC classifications regardless of density. Always confirm with your carrier or broker before shipping.
The 4 Factors That Determine Freight Class
Frequently Asked Questions
What is freight class?
Freight class is a standardized classification system created by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) used by LTL carriers to categorize shipments. Classes range from 50 (least expensive to ship) to 500 (most expensive). The class is primarily determined by density, but also considers stowability, handling difficulty, and liability risk.
How is freight class calculated?
Freight class is primarily calculated using density: your shipment’s weight in pounds divided by its volume in cubic feet. Measure your shipment’s length, width, and height in inches (including the pallet), multiply them together, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet, then divide the weight by the cubic feet to get density (PCF). Higher density results in a lower class and lower shipping costs.
What is the difference between actual weight and dimensional weight?
Actual weight is what your shipment weighs on a scale. Dimensional weight (DIM weight) is a calculated weight based on the package size, used primarily by parcel carriers like UPS and FedEx. For LTL freight shipping, carriers use density-based freight classes rather than DIM weight. Both systems exist because carriers need to account for how much space a shipment takes up relative to its weight.
Can I lower my freight class to save money?
Yes. You can reduce your freight class by increasing density — either by reducing package dimensions (smaller boxes, tighter packaging) or by consolidating more weight into the same space. Proper palletizing and shrink-wrapping can also help. However, never intentionally misclassify freight to get a lower rate, as carriers will reclassify it and charge additional fees.
What happens if I use the wrong freight class?
If a carrier inspects your shipment and finds the class is incorrect, they’ll reclassify it and charge you the difference — often with a reclassification fee on top. This can significantly increase your shipping cost. Using a freight class calculator before you ship helps you avoid surprises.
What is a handling unit vs. a product?
A handling unit is the physical piece the carrier picks up and moves — usually a pallet, skid, crate, or bundle. It is not the number of individual products. For example, if you have 200 items shrink-wrapped onto 2 pallets, you have 2 handling units. Always measure and weigh each pallet as a complete unit, including the pallet itself.
Do all commodities use density-based freight class?
No. Some commodities have fixed NMFC classifications regardless of density. Certain chemicals, electronics, and hazardous materials are assigned specific classes based on their handling, stowability, or liability characteristics. If you’re unsure, check the NMFC database or confirm with your carrier or freight broker before shipping.
What is the most common freight class?
Class 70 and Class 85 are among the most commonly shipped freight classes, covering everyday goods like food products, machinery parts, and manufactured goods with average density. Class 100 is considered the baseline class for general freight.
Complete Freight Class Reference Chart
| Class | Density (PCF) | Relative Cost | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | 50+ | Lowest | Nuts/bolts, cement, steel |
| 55 | 35–50 | Very Low | Bricks, hardwood flooring |
| 60 | 30–35 | Low | Car accessories, bottled beverages |
| 65 | 22.5–30 | Low-Mid | Car parts, appliance parts |
| 70 | 15–22.5 | Mid-Low | Food items, auto engines |
| 77.5 | 13.5–15 | Mid | Tires, bathroom fixtures |
| 85 | 12–13.5 | Mid | Crated machinery, transmissions |
| 92.5 | 10.5–12 | Mid | Computers, monitors, refrigerators |
| 100 | 9–10.5 | Mid | Boat/car covers, canvas, wine |
| 110 | 8–9 | Mid-High | Cabinets, framed art, table saws |
| 125 | 7–8 | Mid-High | Small household appliances |
| 150 | 6–7 | High | ATV, bookcases, furniture |
| 175 | 5–6 | High | Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture |
| 200 | 4–5 | Very High | Auto sheet metal, aircraft parts |
| 250 | 3–4 | Very High | Bamboo furniture, mattresses |
| 300 | 2–3 | Very High | Wood cabinets, tables, chairs |
| 400 | 1–2 | Highest | Deer antlers, ping pong balls |
| 500 | Under 1 | Highest | Gold dust, very low density items |
This calculator provides freight class estimates based on density. Actual freight class may differ based on commodity type, NMFC classification, packaging, stowability, handling requirements, and carrier-specific rules. Some commodities have fixed NMFC classifications regardless of density.
Always confirm your freight class with your carrier or freight broker before shipping. National Freight Hub is not liable for reclassification fees or pricing differences resulting from use of this tool.