What is Freight Class?

Freight class is a system used to categorize freight based on its characteristics such as weight, dimensions, density, and ease of handling. It helps determine the cost of shipping and the appropriate transportation method. Freight classes are assigned based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, which standardizes the pricing of goods shipped via less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers.

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Role of Freight Classification in LTL Shipping

Freight classification plays a crucial role in Less-than-Truckload (LTL) shipping by standardizing the pricing and handling of goods. It helps carriers, shippers, and freight brokers determine the cost and logistics of shipping based on specific criteria. Here’s how it influences LTL shipping:

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How to Determine Freight Class

First, you need to pay attention to the key dimensions of Freight Class

• Density: The weight of the freight compared to its volume. Lower-density items take up more space, increasing the freight class.
• Stowability: The ease of storing the freight with other goods. Items that are irregularly shaped or hazardous may limit stowability, resulting in a higher class.
• Handling: The amount of effort or equipment needed to handle the freight. Fragile, bulky, or awkward items often require special handling, raising their class.
• Liability: The risk of damage, theft, or loss. High-value or perishable goods typically fall into higher freight classes due to increased liability.

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Here’s a detailed overview of how to calculate freight class:
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1. Measure the Freight Dimensions

• Measure the length, width, and height of the shipment, including packaging.

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2. Calculate the Density

• Use the formula:

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• Lower density results in a higher freight class.

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3. Evaluate Stowability

• Consider how easily the freight can be stored with other shipments. Odd shapes or hazardous materials may increase the class.

4. Assess Handling Requirements

• Check if the freight needs special care, like being fragile, bulky, or requiring specific equipment for loading/unloading.

5. Determine Liability Risks

• Account for the value of the goods and the potential risk of damage or theft. High-value items often fall into higher classes.

6. Check the NMFC Guidelines

• Refer to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) to match your shipment’s characteristics with its corresponding class.

Freight class ensures accurate pricing and efficient handling in LTL shipping.

Freight Class Chart

The freight class chart, based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, assigns a numerical class (ranging from 50 to 500) to shipments. The classification depends on four factors: density, stowability, handling, and liability.

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Source: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/freight/class-calculator.html

How to Use the Freight Class Chart

1. Calculate Density: Measure your freight dimensions and weight to find its density in pounds per cubic foot.
2. Consider Other Factors: Check if handling, stowability, or liability risks might increase the class.
3. Match with Class: Use the density and characteristics of your shipment to find its freight class in the chart.
   
   
   

How 3PLs Use Freight Class to Lower Shipping Costs

1. Optimizing Freight Classification: 3PLs ensure accurate freight class calculations by analyzing shipment dimensions, weight, and characteristics, avoiding overclassification that inflates costs.
2. Leveraging Carrier Relationships: Established partnerships with carriers allow 3PLs to negotiate better rates for specific freight classes, passing these savings on to their clients.
3. Consolidating Shipments: 3PLs combine shipments of similar freight classes to maximize truck space, reducing costs for each individual client.
4. Providing Expertise: Their knowledge of the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system ensures clients use the correct freight class, avoiding penalties for reclassification.
5. Custom Solutions: By analyzing shipping patterns, 3PLs recommend packaging changes or adjustments that lower the freight class without compromising product safety.
6. Reducing Liability Costs: 3PLs offer insights to minimize risks associated with higher-class freight, such as improved packaging or alternative transport methods.

3PLs strategically use freight class expertise to optimize shipping processes and secure cost-effective logistics solutions for businesses.

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