Classification Details
| NMFC | Description | Class |
|---|---|---|
| 176370.00 | Silica, NOI, Silex, NOI, Dry Colloidal Silica or Amorphous Silica, NOI, or Microsilica, in bags, boxes or drums, subject to Item 170 and having a density in pounds per cubic foot of: | |
| 176370.01 | Less than 10 | 150 |
| 176370.02 | 10 but less than 20 | 70 |
| 176370.03 | 20 or greater | 50 |
How to Determine Your Class
To find the correct freight class for your shipment:
- Capture weight and cube to determine density (lb/ft³) per Item 170. Example: a 40×48×36 in pallet at 2,000 lb = 50 pcf, typically pricing near Class 50.
- Choose packaging that contains dust and moisture: lined bags in sturdy boxes, sealed fiber drums, or tight-lidded steel drums. Mark pallets “Keep Dry” and “Fine Powder.”
- Palletize for stability: stretch-wrap with top sheets, use corner boards, and band heavy drums. Keep footprints to 40×48 in where possible to maximize density.
- On the BOL, list “Silica, NOI (incl. dry colloidal/amorphous/microsilica), NMFC 176370, subject to Item 170,” include the calculated class and note “Non-hazardous.”
Note: All classifications are subject to Item 170. Verify with official NMFC publications for the most current requirements.
Business Value
- Density-based pricing lets you reduce costs by packing efficiently—higher pcf can move from Class 150 toward Class 50, lowering LTL rates.
- Non-hazardous designation avoids hazmat surcharges and broadens carrier options, speeding pickup and reducing tender rejections.
- Clear NMFC mapping and correct BOL details minimize reclassifications, inspections, and billing disputes, protecting margins and transit timelines.
- Right-size boxes or drums to fill pallet cube, improving pcf without overweighting units—better rate per pound and fewer handling damages.