Freight class calculator

For density-based freight, divide the weight in pounds by the volume in cubic feet to get density, then match it to the class scale. Lower density means a higher class and usually a higher rate.

Multiply length × width × height in inches, divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet, then divide the weight by that number. A 48 × 40 × 48 inch pallet weighing 500 lb is about 9.4 lb per cubic foot.

There are 18 NMFC freight classes, from class 50 (dense, easy to handle) to class 500 (light or hard to handle). Density-rated freight uses a scale running from class 50 to class 400.

No. The NMFC item for the commodity also considers handling, stowability and liability. Some commodities have a fixed class. Always confirm the class with your carrier or the NMFC listing.

A shipment that is light but takes up a lot of floor space stops the carrier from loading other freight. Many LTL carriers apply capacity or volume rules on longer shipments, so check your carrier’s tariff before booking.

Usually, yes. A TMS (transportation management system) built for brokers is the core of most freight broker software: it holds the load, carrier, customer and document records. Some vendors sell accounting, carrier vetting or load posting as separate add-ons, so check what is included in the price.

It is a tool that turns a shipment's dimensions and weight into density, in pounds per cubic foot. LTL carriers use density to set the freight class for most commodities, so the density tells you the likely class before you ask for a quote.

Raise the density. Pack the freight more tightly, use the smallest pallet and packaging that protects it, and avoid overhang and empty space. Then measure accurately, because carriers re-measure and re-class shipments that were described wrongly.