NMFC 161630 - Paperback Books in Boxes | Class 60

Note 161631: NOTE-Also applies when less than seven percent of the pages of one or more books in the shipment vary from the specifications in item 161630 respecting size, coating and ground wood content.

To find the correct freight class for your shipment:

1. Confirm specs match the item: flexible paper covers ≤0.015 in and uncoated ground wood pages no larger than 5x8 inches. If larger or different materials, see Note, item 161631.
2. Pack in sturdy corrugated boxes (32–44 ECT), align spines the same direction, and fill voids to prevent corner crush. Example: 40 copies of 5x8 paperbacks per snug carton.
3. Record exact exterior L×W×H for each carton when rating LTL. Even at Class 60, carriers use dimensions to price and to check for cubic capacity rules.
4. Palletize tight: no overhang, column-stack uniform cartons, add a top cap and stretch wrap. Use a moisture barrier or poly liner to protect pages during transit humidity swings.

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

• Predictable budgeting with fixed Class 60 for qualifying paperbacks, reducing surprise reclass charges.
• Dense, uniform cartons improve trailer cube utilization and can lower cost per book on multi-stop LTL runs.
• Clear non-hazardous status streamlines carrier selection and speeds dock handling at publishers and 3PL book fulfillers.
• Spec compliance (cover thickness and page size/material) avoids inspections, rework, and delay fees at terminals.