Frequently Asked Questions

An NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) code is a standardized classification number published by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). Each code identifies a specific commodity type and determines its freight class (ranging from 50 to 500), which LTL carriers use to calculate shipping rates.

NMFC codes are based on four transportation characteristics:

• Density: Weight per cubic foot
• Stowability: Ability to load efficiently with other freight
• Handling: Ease of handling and special requirements
• Liability: Risk of damage, theft, or causing damage to other freight

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

The NMFC code is a specific article number (like 6085) that identifies a commodity type. Freight class is a numerical range from 50 to 500 that indicates shipping cost relative to other commodities.

One NMFC article may contain multiple sub-items with different freight classes based on density, packaging, or other factors. For example:

• NMFC 86850 (computers, assembled) might be Class 85
• NMFC 86850 (computer parts, unassembled) might be Class 100

Lower class numbers (like 50) mean lower shipping costs, while higher class numbers (like 500) mean higher costs.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

NMFC codes are published by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), a nonprofit organization representing the LTL motor carrier industry in the United States.

NMFTA maintains and updates the National Motor Freight Classification, which has been the industry standard for freight classification since 1936.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

While not legally mandated by federal law, NMFC codes are the industry standard and required by virtually all LTL carriers for accurate freight classification and rate determination.

Carriers use NMFC codes to:

• Establish consistent pricing across the industry
• Determine proper handling and stowage
• Assess liability and insurance requirements
• Calculate accurate freight charges

Not providing an NMFC code or providing an incorrect code can result in reclassification fees (typically $75-$150 per shipment) plus rate adjustments.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

Freight density is calculated using this formula:

Step-by-step:

1. Measure your shipment dimensions in inches (Length × Width × Height)
2. Multiply L × W × H to get cubic inches
3. Divide by 1,728 to convert to cubic feet
4. Divide the weight by cubic feet to get density

Example:

• Shipment: 500 lbs, dimensions 48" × 40" × 48"
• Volume: (48 × 40 × 48) ÷ 1,728 = 53.33 cubic feet
• Density: 500 ÷ 53.33 = 9.38 lbs/cu ft
• This density typically corresponds to Class 125

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

Using an incorrect NMFC code can result in:

• Reclassification fees: Typically $75-$150 per shipment
• Rate adjustments: Back-billing for the difference in freight charges
• Delivery delays: While carrier investigates classification
• Denied claims: If damage occurs and classification was incorrect
• Compliance issues: Particularly for hazardous materials

Common causes of incorrect classification:

• Using outdated NMFC codes
• Incorrect density calculations
• Packaging changes not reflected in classification
• Using generic "NOI" (Not Otherwise Indicated) codes when specific codes exist

Prevention: Always verify with your carrier and keep updated on classification changes.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

"NOI" stands for "Not Otherwise Indicated" or "Not Otherwise Indexed". It's a catch-all classification used when a specific NMFC code doesn't exist for your exact commodity.

Important notes about NOI codes:

• NOI classifications are typically higher class (more expensive) than specific codes
• Always search for a more specific code first
• Example: "Hardware, NOI" is Class 85, but "Bolts, steel" might be Class 70
• Using NOI when a specific code exists can cost you money

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

Yes. Packaging significantly affects freight classification in several ways:

• Density: Packaging adds weight and volume, changing density calculations
• Protection: Better packaging may reduce liability and lower class
• Stowability: Palletized items stack better than loose items
• Handling: Crated items may require different handling than boxed items

Example:

• Electronics in original packaging: Class 85
• Same electronics loose in boxes: Class 92.5
• Same electronics on pallets, shrink-wrapped: Class 85

Always consider packaging when selecting NMFC codes.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

No. Our database is not available for bulk download or systematic scraping. This restriction exists to:

• Protect our data quality and verification work
• Ensure users get updated information through our platform
• Comply with our terms of service

You can search and view individual NMFC codes freely on our website. For enterprise API access or bulk queries, please contact info@freightclass.org.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

We currently do not offer a public API. However, we are considering API access for:

• Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
• Enterprise shipping platforms
• 3PL and freight broker systems

If you're interested in API access for your business, please contact us at api@freightclass.org with your use case.

— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist

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— David Johnson, CTLP, Chief Freight Classification Specialist