When you ship your products as LTL (less-than-truckload), you will need to assign your shipment a freight class number. The freight class number is a standard code published by the National Motor Freight and Traffic Association which allows carriers to quickly identify qualities of the shipment and assist with transportation logistics.
Packaging comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and weights. Because of this, the freight class for packaging can range from 60-400. We list some common packaging supplies and their associated freight class codes here. Generally, the lower the freight class code, the cheaper the shipment will be.
Density is identified by the dimension and weight of your shipment. Packaging supplies like bags, packets, or bubble wrap can have varying freight class codes based on the density of individual pieces.
Does your shipment require any special handling? Containers can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, which can affect the freight class code.
Liability is defined by the value of your shipment and its likeliness to be stolen or damaged. Some items like specialty packing boxes and supplies can have a higher freight class number.
Is your equipment difficult to stow or transport? Unconventional supplies like packaging for meat or poultry can increase your shipment’s freight class, increasing your cost to ship.
Tips
Plastic Film, Bags, Packets, Pouches, Sleeves, Bubble Wrap
Meat or Poultry Packaging
Cardboard Boxes
Containers
250, 400
110
60, 65, 70, 85, 92.5, 100, 125, 175, 250, 300, 400
60, 65, 70, 85, 92.5, 100, 125, 175, 250, 300, 400
Density of materials will determine which class to use.
Only includes mesh type or cotton.
Density will determine which class to use.
Density will determine which class to use.
Common Commodity Items
Classes
For many NMFC® codes there isn’t just one single class that is applied. Often, NMFC® numbers have multiple "sub-classes", which are almost always based on the density of the shipment. In the instance where your NMFC® number has multiple sub classes, it's best to contact an expert, like Koho, to help identify which subclass to use.
Since packaging can range widely in size and material, the density of your shipment will be the biggest influence on the class. Work to make your shipment as dense as possible to achieve the lowest class.
Packaging should always be secured to a pallet in boxes or loose with shrink wrap. Carriers may reject shipments that contain multiple loose boxes or materials.
