NMFC 104000 – Iron or Steel Reference | Class N/A

Note 104012: NOTE-Also applies on stainless steel or alloy steels containing less than 50 percent of nonferrous metals provided they are represented for sales purposes as steel, but will not apply on alloys provided for elsewhere in the Classification. Articles or materials with finished surfaces or edges liable to damage must be in boxes, crates, fiberboard tubes, or completely wrapped or covered with material of sufficient strength to prevent abrasion, marring or denting during transit.

To find the correct freight class for your shipment:

1. Start with Note 104012 to pick the exact subclass based on form (coils, bar, plate, tubing, shapes) and packaging (bundled, palletized, crated).
2. Detail the shipment on the BOL: piece count per bundle, unit dimensions, total weight, and banding/skid specs; e.g., “10 bars per bundle on 4×4 skid.”
3. Protect edges and surfaces with edge guards and VCI wrap, then cover for weather; use “Do Not Top Load” on coils or plate susceptible to denting.
4. For long or sharp stock, block and brace to prevent shifting; coordinate side-load vs. end-load with the carrier and apply “Heavy” or “Team Lift” labels.

Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.

• Accurate subclassing via Note 104012 avoids reclass charges and inspection delays, delivering cleaner quotes and faster pickups.
• Clear packaging details reduce special handling fees (excessive length, non-stackable) and unlock better LTL rate options.
• Standardized bundle sizes speed dock turns and cut detention risk while minimizing OS&D disputes through consistent counts.
• Damage prevention steps (edge guards, corrosion control) lower claim exposure for rust and edge damage, protecting margins and delivery KPIs.