Freight Class Calculator
Instantly calculate your shipment's density (PCF) and estimate your LTL freight class to ensure accurate freight quotes and avoid costly re-class fees.
How to Use This Calculator
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Select Unit System: Toggle between "US Standard" (Inches/lbs) or "Metric" (cm/kg) using the switch at the top of the calculator for easy cross-border shipping estimations.
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Input Dimensions and Weight: Enter the length, width, and height of your packaged item or pallet. Be sure to measure to the furthest points, including packaging or pallet overhang. Enter the gross weight of the single item.
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Adjust Quantity: If you are shipping multiple identical items, increase the "Quantity" field. The calculator will automatically adjust total volume and gross weight.
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View Density and Estimated Class: Review your total density (in PCF or kg/m³) and the estimated Freight Class. Remember, a higher density yields a lower freight class, which generally costs less to ship.
What Is Freight Class and Density?
Wondering what freight class is my shipment? Freight class is a standardized classification system created by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It provides a common ground for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carriers and shippers to negotiate freight rates. Using an LTL freight class calculator is the fastest way to get an accurate estimate.
There are 18 different freight classes, ranging from Class 50 (the least expensive, for dense/heavy items) to Class 400 (the most expensive, for very light/bulky items). You can refer to our freight class chart 50 to 400 below to see how density impacts your rating.
If you are unsure how to find NMFC code for freight, remember that the official classification uses National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) codes that account for Density, Stowability, Handling, and Liability. However, when a specific code isn't assigned, density is the primary driving factor. In these cases, an NMFC freight class calculator becomes essential.
Our freight class for pallets calculator helps you calculate NMFC class for LTL based purely on density. By inputting your pallet or package dimensions and weight, our NMFC calculator instantly applies the standard freight class calculation formula to map your PCF to the density-based freight class scale. If you are looking to optimize your truck's payload capacity alongside your shipping class, be sure to explore our complete suite of weight calculators.
Density to Freight Class Reference Scale
Use this standard density scale to understand how pounds per cubic foot (PCF) translates to estimated freight classes. Higher density items are cheaper to ship.
| Density (PCF) | Estimated Class |
|---|---|
| Less than 1 pcf | Class 400 |
| 1 - 2 pcf | Class 300 |
| 2 - 4 pcf | Class 250 |
| 4 - 6 pcf | Class 175 |
| 6 - 8 pcf | Class 125 |
| 8 - 10 pcf | Class 100 |
| 10 - 12 pcf | Class 92.5 |
| 12 - 15 pcf | Class 85 |
| 15 - 22.5 pcf | Class 70 |
| 22.5 - 30 pcf | Class 65 |
| 30 - 35 pcf | Class 60 |
| 35 - 50 pcf | Class 55 |
| 50+ pcf | Class 50 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How to determine freight class using density (PCF)?
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If you want to know how to determine freight class using the standard freight class calculation formula, you must calculate your PCF (Pounds per Cubic Foot): First, multiply Length x Width x Height in inches to get total cubic inches. Divide that by 1,728 to get Cubic Feet. Finally, divide the total weight of the shipment by the Cubic Feet. A freight class estimator automates this entire process for you.
What is the cheapest freight class?
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Class 50 is typically the cheapest freight class. It applies to items that are very dense, sturdy, and easy to handle (over 50 lbs per cubic foot), such as solid metal machinery parts or shrink-wrapped bricks.
How to avoid LTL reclass fees?
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Wondering how to avoid LTL reclass fees? Carriers use dimensioners (lasers that measure pallets automatically) at their terminals. If you estimated your dimensions or didn't include the pallet's height/weight, your actual density might be lower than you reported, pushing your shipment into a more expensive freight class. Always measure the final, ready-to-ship pallet at its widest points and use an LTL class calculator to double-check your bill of lading.
Are NMFC codes and Freight Class the same thing?
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No, but they are related. An NMFC code is a specific number assigned to a commodity (e.g., Plastic Hoses might be NMFC 51140). That code dictates the Freight Class. Some NMFC codes are density-based, meaning the class changes depending on the item's PCF, while others have a fixed class regardless of density.
Does this calculator guarantee my freight class?
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No. This calculator provides an estimated freight class based strictly on the standard density scale. If your specific item has a designated NMFC code based on liability or handling difficulty, that specific code will override this density-based estimation.