Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 155850.00 | Planters, or Flower or Plant Boxes, Baskets or Tubs, NOI, with or without legs, in boxes, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 155850.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 155850.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 155850.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 155850.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 155850.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 155850.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 155850.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 155850.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 155850.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 155850.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 155850.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 155850.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 155850.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Calculate density per carton: weigh the boxed planter set and divide by cubic feet of the outer box to determine the correct NMFC class within 50–400.
- Pack fragile ceramics or terracotta with double-wall boxes, corner protectors, and foam-in-place; fill voids so legs or rims can’t puncture the carton.
- Nest multiple planters or tubs to reduce cube, then block and brace inside the box to prevent crushing from stacked freight during LTL handling.
- Mark cartons “This Side Up” for tall planters with legs, and show “In Boxes” on the BOL to align with Item 170 and avoid reclass fees.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Right-size density lowers freight class for heavy but compact planters, cutting LTL rates without changing carriers.
- Standardized boxed packaging meets Item 170, reducing inspection delays, reweighs, and costly reclassifications.
- Nesting sets and optimized void fill shrink cube, improving trailer utilization and per-order shipping margins.
- Non-hazardous status simplifies carrier selection and speeds quoting, helping teams turn around orders faster.