Classify it
Freight class lookup.
Freight class is the code that tells an LTL carrier how to price your shipment. Enter your density — or your dimensions and weight — to get the standard density-based class estimate.
Estimate your class
Choose how you want to enter your shipment, then we’ll map it to a class.
This is the standard density-based estimate. The actual NMFC class can also depend on stowability, handling and liability — confirm the class with your carrier or with an RS Group specialist before you ship.
The standard density-to-class scale
Density in pounds per cubic foot maps to one of the 18 NMFC classes (50–500). Higher density means a lower class and, usually, a lower rate.
| Density (lb/ft³) | Freight class |
|---|---|
| 50 and over | 50 |
| 35 – under 50 | 55 |
| 30 – under 35 | 60 |
| 22.5 – under 30 | 65 |
| 15 – under 22.5 | 70 |
| 13.5 – under 15 | 77.5 |
| 12 – under 13.5 | 85 |
| 10.5 – under 12 | 92.5 |
| 9 – under 10.5 | 100 |
| 8 – under 9 | 110 |
| 7 – under 8 | 125 |
| 6 – under 7 | 150 |
| 5 – under 6 | 175 |
| 4 – under 5 | 200 |
| 3 – under 4 | 250 |
| 2 – under 3 | 300 |
| 1 – under 2 | 400 |
| Under 1 | 500 |
What is a freight class?
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) groups every kind of LTL freight into 18 classes, from 50 (very dense, lowest cost) to 500 (very light or bulky, highest cost). Your class is the shorthand carriers use to price a shipment.
For most dense, palletized freight, density is the primary driver of the class — which is why this tool can estimate it from your density alone.
When density isn’t the whole story
The NMFC system also weighs three other factors: stowability (how easily it loads with other freight), handling (whether it needs special care), and liability (its value and how prone it is to damage or theft). Some commodities have a fixed class regardless of density.
So treat this as a strong starting estimate, not a final ruling. When you book through RS Group, a specialist confirms the correct NMFC class so your shipment is priced right and not re-classed at the dock.
Not sure about your class?
Tell us what you’re shipping and we’ll confirm the right NMFC class and quote the lane.