Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 176050.00 | Signs, NOI, prepaid, see Notes, items 176051 and 176052, in boxes, crates or Packages 1160 or 2337, see Note, item 176053, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 176050.01 | Less than 1 | 400 |
| 176050.02 | 1 but less than 2 | 300 |
| 176050.03 | 2 but less than 4 | 250 |
| 176050.04 | 4 but less than 6 | 175 |
| 176050.05 | 6 but less than 8 | 125 |
| 176050.06 | 8 but less than 10 | 100 |
| 176050.07 | 10 but less than 12 | 92.5 |
| 176050.08 | 12 but less than 15 | 85 |
| 176050.09 | 15 but less than 22.5 | 70 |
| 176050.10 | 22.5 but less than 30 | 65 |
| 176050.11 | 30 but less than 35 | 60 |
| 176050.12 | 35 but less than 50 | 55 |
| 176050.13 | 50 or greater | 50 |
Notes
Note 176051: NOTE-Also applies on letters, numbers, figures or symbols not of themselves constituting complete signs.
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Confirm prepaid terms on the BOL and reference: “Signs, NOI, NMFC 176050, density ____ PCF” to align with the item’s prepaid scope.
- Select packaging that meets Package 1160 (rugged box) or 2337 (crate). Use corner guards and face protection for panels, and brace stacks to prevent flexing.
- Calculate density by weighing the packed shipment and dividing by cubic feet; then match your PCF to the 50–400 class scale for this item.
- Check Notes items 176051–176052 and Item 170 before tender. For example, bulky metal road signs may require crating, while lightweight retail placards can ship in heavy boxes.
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Right-size packaging to hit a lower class where possible, reducing LTL spend without compromising protection for fragile sign faces.
- Clear prepaid billing and accurate density stop reclass and reweigh fees, improving invoice accuracy and cash forecasting.
- Using Package 1160 or 2337 boosts survivability, cutting damage claims and keeping retail rollouts or municipal installs on schedule.
- Consistent NMFC labeling accelerates carrier throughput and quote turnaround, enabling faster tendering and tighter lead times.