Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 161130.00 | Posts or Poles, sign, or Sections thereof, NOI, with or without bases, see Note, item 161131; Sign Post or Pole Bases, NOI; or Sign Brackets; in packages, see Note, item 161132: | |
| 161130.01 | Greatest dimension exceeding 288 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 161130.02 | Less than 10 | 200 |
| 161130.03 | 10 but less than 15 | 110 |
| 161130.04 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 92.5 |
| 161130.05 | 22.5 or greater | 77.5 |
| 161130.06 | Greatest dimension exceeding 192 inches but not exceeding 288 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 161130.07 | Less than 10 | 175 |
| 161130.08 | 10 but less than 15 | 100 |
| 161130.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 85 |
| 161130.10 | 22.5 or greater | 70 |
| 161130.11 | Greatest dimension exceeding 96 inches but not exceeding 192 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 161130.12 | Less than 10 | 150 |
| 161130.13 | 10 but less than 15 | 92.5 |
| 161130.14 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 77.5 |
| 161130.15 | 22.5 or greater | 65 |
| 161130.16 | Greatest dimension not exceeding 96 inches, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 161130.17 | Less than 10 | 125 |
| 161130.18 | 10 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 161130.19 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 161130.20 | 22.5 or greater | 60 |
Notes
Note 161131: NOTE-Does not apply on channel iron sign posts or poles without bases. For applicable provisions, see item 104880.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Calculate density by package: measure L×W×H of each carton or bundle and include the weight of bases and brackets shipped inside. Higher density trends toward lower class within 60–200.
- Package as “packages” per notes: use heavy-duty cartons, tubes, or strapped bundles with end caps and edge protectors. Keep brackets and hardware bagged in a carton within the same package when practical.
- Control length risks: posts over 8–12 ft may trigger overlength fees. If possible, ship sectional poles nested in a single package and flag both ends with bright labels like Long Freight/Do Not Stack.
- Stabilize for LTL handling: place bundles on a skid with blocking so forks can’t roll the poles. Strap in two places, add corner boards, and label each package with piece count, material (steel, aluminum, wood), and dimensions.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Density-based rating lets efficient packaging lower the class toward 60, cutting LTL costs without changing carriers.
- Bundling sections and crating brackets inside one package reduces handling time and minimizes damage claims on hardware.
- Clear length, weight, and material details prevent reclass and overlength surprises, improving quote accuracy and invoice matching.
- Packaging to the NMFC note for packages keeps the shipment in the correct item, helping avoid exceptions and delays at cross-docks.