Freight class is a standard classification system for shipments, defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It's used to categorize commodities like Paints for transport, taking into account factors like weight, dimensions, density, storage capability, ease of handling, and liability. Freight class is a system to categorize different types of goods being shipped.
Density is a key concept in freight shipping, as it significantly impacts the freight class for commodities like Paints and hence, the shipping cost. It is calculated as the weight of the shipment divided by its volume. Density is a measure of the weight of a shipment in relation to its volume.
Stowability is used in freight shipping to describe how easily an item can be stowed or stored in relation to other items. For example, when trying to understand stowability for Paints, it is important to know if the item can be packaged efficiently and stowed onto the truck easily. In other words- Stowability is an assessment of how well a shipment can be stowed for transport.
Liability is a term used to refer to the accountability or risk involved in transporting Paints. It's one of the factors considered when determining freight class. It's the financial responsibility in case of loss or damage during the shipping process.
Handling refers to the procedures and precautions taken when moving and storing Paints. It is one of the factors considered when determining freight class for Paints. Handling is about the procedures followed when moving freight.
Tips
Paints And Related Materials
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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.
HSN stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature. It is a system for classifying commodities created by the World Customs organization. U.S. LTL shipping, however, uses NMFC classifications instead.
Your freight cost is determined by a number of variables, such as how far your shipment needs to go, the freight class number, whether or not accessorials are needed, as well as fluctuating fuel costs and truck capacity.
