Shippers, take note: major freight classification changes from the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) go into effect this weekend, July 19–20, 2025. These updates to the National Motor Freight Classification® (NMFC) system are designed to emphasize freight density further and will significantly impact how LTL (less-than-truckload) shipments are rated, quoted, and invoiced.
What’s Changing?
Historically, LTL freight classifications have been based on a combination of four factors: density, stowability, handling, and liability. But over the past few years, the NMFTA has been transitioning many product classes to a pure density-based structure. This latest round of changes is one of the largest yet.
- Nearly 2,000 NMFC items are being revised or consolidated
- Many classes are being reassigned based on actual freight density
- Items previously exempt from density-based classification may now require dimensional verification
Why Density Matters More Than Ever
Density—the weight of your shipment divided by its volume—is becoming the primary determinant of freight classification. It directly affects how efficiently freight can be loaded and transported in LTL carrier networks. Higher-density freight occupies less space and is easier to handle, resulting in lower class ratings and more favorable rates. On the other hand, low-density or bulky freight gets rated higher, resulting in increased shipping costs.
LTL carriers rely on accurate density data to:
- Maximize trailer utilization
- Avoid revenue leakage
- Provide fair and competitive pricing
- Minimize reclassification and dispute delays
How to Prepare
To avoid surprises or reclass charges, shippers should:
- Review updated NMFC listings from the NMFTA or through Logistics Plus.
- Recalculate freight density for all impacted SKUs or shipments.
- Train shipping teams on how to properly measure and document freight.
- Use dimensional scanners or freight measuring tools where available.
- Review and optimize packaging to remove as much “airspace” as possible so that shipments are dense and compact.
How to Calculate Freight Density
Here’s a quick guide to get your density right:
- Measure dimensions of your palletized freight in inches (Length × Width × Height).
- Multiply to get cubic inches, then divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet.
- Divide the total weight (in pounds) by the cubic feet result.
- Result = Freight Density (lbs/ft³)
Example:
- Pallet size = 48”L × 40”W × 50”H = 96,000 cubic inches
- 96,000 ÷ 1,728 = 55.56 cubic feet
- Freight weight = 600 lbs
- 600 ÷ 55.56 = 10.8 lbs/ft³
Tip 1: If you are shipping a commodity with a freight classification based on its density, refer to the NMFC density tables to find the correct class for your calculated density, or ask your Logistics Plus logistics specialist to assist.
Tip 2: If you quote and ship using Logistics Plus eShipPlus™ TMS or MyLogisticsPlus™ portal, your shipment density will automatically be displayed once you enter your pieces, weight, and dimensions.
Logistics Plus is here to help!
If you’re unsure how these changes affect you or if you want help reclassifying your freight, request a risk-free NMFC freight class impact analysis or a general freight savings analysis from our LTL experts. We’ll review your shipments, provide accurate class guidance, and ensure you’re prepared for the NMFTA updates.
Contact us today with any questions or to learn more about our services.
